It’s no secret some of the Central Cascades’ most beloved hiking trails have seen surges in popularity, with some feeling a 300-500% increase in use. To help protect these wild places, the Forest Service is implementing a new Wilderness Permit program to give high-traffic trails a chance to heal.

While you can still hike your old faves like Tam MacArther Rim or Sisters Mirror Lakes, it’ll take a bit more planning beginning April 2021. Read on to learn all you need to know about the new Central Cascades Wilderness Permits system.