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At the southern end of John Muir Wilderness, on the western border of Sequoia-Kings Canyon National Park, Monarch Wilderness amply lives up to its regal name. Few areas of the United States can boast such an abundance of extravagant mountain scenery. Big mountain views of Deer Ridge and the Monarch Divide may be among the best in the world. Formerly known as the High Sierra Primitive Area, this wildland is steep and rugged, with high ridges standing above deep canyons. Mountain meadows, numerous streams, shallow lakes, and spectacular multicolored rock formations throughout the Wilderness add to the wonder. Elevations range from about 2,000 feet on the banks of the South Fork of the Kings River to 11,077 feet on Hogback Peak. Brush and oak woodlands cover the lower elevations, giving way to pine and red fir, and, finally, giant sequoias in the higher country. The ragged, brushy terrain in the northwest area of the Monarch Wilderness (in Sierra National Forest) has no trails, and travel is extremely difficult. Trails in the southern area of the Monarch Wilderness (in Sequoia National Forest) are mostly steep and strenuous. Sheer ruggedness has kept visitation light despite the fact that CA State Highway 180 splits the wilderness. The Deer Cove trail from highway 180 rises 3,000 feet in four miles. This one trail provide access into the northern side of highway 180, and the trail leads from the Deer Cove trailhead into Kings Canyon National Park. The two trails in the southern side of Highway 180 are the Deer Meadow trail from Big Meadows road and the Kanawyer trail from Kennedy Meadows trailhead to highway 180 near Cedar Grove campground.
Maps
Digital and paper maps are critical tools for wilderness visitors. Online maps can help you plan and prepare for your visit ahead of time. You can also carry digital maps with you on your GPS unit or other handheld GPS device. Having a paper map with you in the backcountry, as well as solid orienteering skills, however, ensures that you can still route-find in the event that your electronic device fails.
Online Maps
Printed Maps
Rules & Regulations
Motorized equipment and equipment used for mechanical transport is generally prohibited in all wilderness areas.
This includes the use of motor vehicles, motorboats, motorized equipment, bicycles, hang gliders, wagons, carts, portage wheels, and the landing of aircraft including helicopters.
Wilderness-Specific Regulations
Learn more about
why regulations may be necessary in wilderness.
Applicable Wilderness Law(s)
Want to Volunteer for Wilderness?
People who volunteer their time to steward our wilderness areas are an essential part of wilderness management. Contact the following groups to inquire about volunteer opportunities. Groups are listed alphabetically by the state(s) in which the wilderness is located.