Mt. Rose Wilderness

Area Status: Open

Blue lakes, colorful wildflowers and a variety of wildlife are just a few attractions this wilderness has to offer. Nestled between the Carson range and the Great Basin is the 30,000 acre Mount Rose wilderness, named after the highest peak in the Carson Range. The Tahoe Rim Trail, a scenic trail that circles Lake Tahoe, runs for approximately 7 miles through the Mount Rose wilderness, and offers magnificent views of the Lake Tahoe Basin. The strenuous 12 mile round trip hike to the summit of Mount Rose (10,776 feet) is popular among those seeking a wilderness challenge. The Mount Rose Wilderness offers great scenery and a memorable wilderness experience.

At a Glance

Fees:	Fees are not presently required for day or overnight use in the Mt. Rose Wilderness.
Permit Info:	Wilderness permits are not currently required.
Usage:	Moderate
Restrictions:	Maximum Group: 15 people and 25 head of stock. Permits: Wilderness permits are not required, but campfire permits are required for all open fires (including camp stoves). A campfire permit does not authorize the use of fire when fire restrictions are in effect. Wilderness areas are special places where motorized and mechanized vehicles are prohibited (this includes motorcycles, bicycles, carts, and strollers).
Closest Towns:	Incline Village, Nevada.
Water:	Water in the Sierra may be contaminated with Giardia lambia and Crytosporidium, which can cause serious illness. They are invisible, tasteless and odorless. Some backcountry waters may also contain bacteria and viruses. If day hiking, carry sufficient water, or bring along a portable water filter (filter down to 1 micron). If camping, use a filter or boil water for 3-5 mins. Water is usually available year round in the major creeks, but smaller creeks may dry up toward the end of summer.
Operated By:	The Mt. Rose Wilderness is co-managed by the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest and the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit.

General Information

Directions: The Mount Rose Wilderness is located southwest of Reno, Nevada, and north of Lake Tahoe across from Tahoe Meadows. Access is available from the Mount Rose Highway (Nevada Highway 431) via Highway 28 on the north shore.

Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Dispersed Camping

Lake and Pond Fishing

River and Stream Fishing

Day Hiking

Directions to the trailhead: Take Highway 431 (Mt. Rose Highway) north of Incline Village. Park at the trailhead located one mile south of the summit. Access: Follow a dirt road for three miles through a lodgepole cloaked forest interspersed with mule ears and sagebrush. In the spring, a lush meadow at the halfway point is filled with lupine, paintbrush, and larkspur. The last two miles follow slippery switchbacks to the ridge line. Attractions and Considerations: Mt. Rose (10,778'), one of the highest peaks near Lake Tahoe, offers excellent views of the lake, the city of Reno and the surrounding area. Write your name in the log book located at the summit to show the world you made it!

Fire Information	Campfire permits are required for all open fires (including camp stoves). A campfire permit does not authorize the use of fire when fire restrictions are in effect.
Elevation desc	8700/10778
Difficulty Level:	Most Difficult

Backpacking

Hiking: Backpacking

Fire Information	Campfire permits are required for all open fires (including camp stoves). A campfire permit does not authorize the use of fire when fire restrictions are in effect.
Elevation desc	8700/10778 feet
Difficulty Level:	More to Most Difficult