Visit Wilderness

Desolation Wilderness covers 63,475 acres of rugged alpine terrain west of Lake Tahoe, featuring granite peaks, glacial valleys, subalpine forests, and about 130 lakes. Elevations range from 6,500 to nearly 10,000 feet, with snow often blocking high passes until mid-July.

Designated a wilderness area in 1969, it includes 17 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail and offers access through 13 trailheads, including popular ones at Wrights, Echo, Eagle Falls, and Fallen Leaf. The northwest section is quieter and more remote, requiring navigation skills.

Because of its beauty and accessibility, it’s one of the most visited wilderness areas of its size in the U.S. Permits are required for all visits, with day users self-registering at trailheads and overnight visitors needing advance permits through Recreation.gov. Campfires are banned, and hard-sided bear canisters are mandatory.

Leave No Trace

How to follow the seven standard Leave No Trace principles differs in different parts of the country (desert vs. Rocky Mountains). Click on any of the principles listed below to learn more about how they apply in the Desolation Wilderness.

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
4. Leave What You Find
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
6. Respect Wildlife
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

For more information on Leave No Trace, Visit the Leave No Trace, Inc. website.

Rules & Regulations

Contacts