Do you have to have an appointment to do the loop ?

8 call to double check

I was told that reservations are required, so my answer is yes.

The park opens at 6am, you can get in without a reservation before 8am.

No.

recreation.gov

Yes. It is a recent change. As of Nov. 3rd 2020.

You are supposed to get a reservation online. They will do it at the gate if there is room to let you

No, just pay your entry fee at the gate.