Golden Trout Wilderness
The Golden Trout Wilderness is located in both the Sequoia and Inyo national forests and encompasses 475 square miles of pristine lakes, jagged peaks, and lush green meadows. The elevation of the Sequoia portion ranges from 4,800 feet to 12,432 feet. Vegetation includes grey and pinyon pine woodlands at lower elevations; Jeffrey pine at mid-elevations; and red fir, lodgepole, and foxtail pine at higher elevations. Approximately 150 miles of trails are located on the Sequoia National Forest portion. Visitor permits (required only for overnight stays in the Golden Trout Wilderness) are available free from forest offices near wilderness entry points. The following trails into the Golden Trout Wilderness are inaccessible in winter months due to seasonal road closures: Black Rock, Clicks Creek, Forks of the Kern, Lewis Camp, Jerkey Meadow, Shake Camp, Summit.
Click here to view the Golden Trout Wilderness Recreation Opportunity Guide PDF
Click here to view the Golden Trout Wilderness Pack Stations Recreation Opportunity Guide PDF for pack stations that operate under a US Forest Service, Special Use Permit and access the Golden Trout Wilderness.
General Information
- No trash service - Pack It In, Pack It Out
- Know Before You Go! It is your responsibility to plan accordingly and know the closures and restrictions for the area you plan to visit.
May-November
Campfire permits are required for campfires, barbeques, and camp stoves. Permits are available at your local Ranger Station or online at readyforwildfire.org
Depending on fire restrictions and fire danger, campfires may be prohibited for dispersed camping.
6' leash requirements. Dogs are allowed in the Sequoia National Forest, but are not allowed in the Sequoia National Park
Contact Name: Kern River Ranger District
Contact Phone: 760-376-3781
Address: 11380 Kernville Road Kernville, CA 93238
Phone: 760-376-3781
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 am - 4:30 pm (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Email: SM.FS.SequoiaNF@usda.gov
Facility and Amenity Information
Accessibility
Restrooms
Restrooms are not available at this site.
Human Waste: Proper disposal of human waste is crucial. Human waste can spread disease, lead to contaminated water supplies, contaminate soils, attract wildlife, and spoil a dispersed camping area for future users. Portable eco-friendly human waste disposal systems which allow you to safely "Pack It Out" are commercially available and recommended. As a last resort, choose a spot at least 200 feet away from water sources and dispersed campsites, dig a small hole at least six inches deep, and cover it when you are through. Seal your toilet paper in a bag, pack it out, and dispose of it properly.
Water
Potable water is not available at this site.
Be prepared to bring your own drinking water or have a water filter. Lake, stream or spring water may be contaminated.
Picnic Tables
Picnic tables are not available at this site.
Horse/Pack Animal Information
Horse/Pack animals are allowed at this site.
