Blackrock Trail
Beginning on the southern border of the Golden Trout Wilderness, the Black Rock Trail goes to Casa Vieja Meadow and Jordan Hot Springs as it passes through rugged terrain descending to the Wild and Scenic section of the Kern River near Soda Flat. In the Golden Trout Wilderness small streams meander through tree rimmed meadows. The area is named after California’s brightly colored state fish. The golden trout (Onchorhynchus mykiss aguabonita) is a subspecies of rainbow trout that is native to this area.
Walk-in campsites with outhouse, tent pads, and corrals are located at the trailhead. Water is available at Blackrock Information Station, located approximately 7 miles south of the trailhead.
The distance to the Kern River is 9.2 miles, with a significant loss of elevation. The hike back to the trailhead is long and uphill. In summer, the area may be quite hot during the day, and surprisingly cold at night.
Common Destinations: Golden Trout Wilderness
Download area map for trail names
Specific Trail Information
Trail Type
General Information
- Wilderness permit required for overnight trips into the Golden Trout Wilderness.
- Blackrock Ranger Station, located 7 miles south of the Blackrock Trailhead. Open May through October, Thursday through Monday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. Permits may be self-issued after hours. (559) 539-2607 ext 276
Water from creeks, lakes and springs should be treated before drinking.
- Food, trash and scented items must be stored in bear proof container or counter balanced.
- Maximum group size: 15 people
- Maximum number of stock: 25
- Golden Trout Wilderness regulations.
Getting There
Directions
- From US 395, north of Ridgecrest, CA, travel west on Nine Mile Canyon Rd to Kennedy Meadows.
- At Kennedy Meadows, turn left onto Highway J41.
- Turn right onto Forest Road 21S03.
- The Blackrock Ranger Station is located on the right.
- The trailhead is located at the end of Forest Road 21S03, seven miles north of Blackrock Ranger Station.
