Steve, or anyone with knowledge,
Quick question on parking logistics. I have a group of 5 starting Sun 7/10 and leaving Mon 7/11. It is our plan to get our permit Sun 7/10 in the morning and then head up to the Portal to start our trip. I know we will have 1 parking permit but that does not guarantee a parking spot, correct? The dilemma is to chance finding a spot around 12-1:00ish or schedule a shuttle. Since we are leaving Monday evening 7/11, road parking will not work due to construction.
So, any idea if the overnight hiking lots are filling up right now and chances of securing a spot when we arrive mid-day or is it better to just get a shuttle? Probably a coin toss but thought I'd ask. The information on these forums is extremely helpful.
Thx - David
The parking lot situation on 7/11 is a big unknown, but I think the permits issued right now also are getting the single permit per group restriction, so what is happening this week should be an indication of what will continue. And so far, the few comments I have seen are that parking is not a problem.
What I would do is drive up with your group, and IF there are no spots (
be sure to check the map -- there are several areas), have all but the driver start up the trail, and maybe add some of the driver's load to their packs. Driver then hangs around waiting for anyone coming off the trail to vacate a spot. At SOME point during the day, hikers will come down and drive out.
I would hope the wait wouldn't be too long, and you could then get going up the trail.
Please report back what the situation is when you go!
