Visit Wilderness

Here on the western slope of the Sierra Nevada, timbered, rolling terrain dominates most of Dinkey Lakes Wilderness. Almost all of the area lies above 8,000 feet, with Three Sisters Peak soaring to 10,619 feet near the 16 lakes clustered in the west-central region. Stands of white fir, red fir, and Jeffrey pine are scattered throughout, especially around large mountain meadows in the north-central region and along Helms Creek. Rocky outcroppings often break the skyline, and snow covers much of the area from November until June.

Just to the east and north lies the John Muir Wilderness. Trails in Dinkey Lakes Wilderness are well suited for stock travel, but natural feed is scarce except in the meadows north of First Dinkey Lake and near Nelson Lake. Stock must be camped at least 500 feet from any shoreline. From Courtright Reservoir, the trail up Helms Creek reaches First Dinkey Lake after about 17 miles.

Cattle still graze in parts of the wilderness under permits issued before the area's designation. Firewood is difficult to find near the lakes, and human use is considered moderate.

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 Dinkey Lakes 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