Split between the Sequoia and Inyo National Forests, the Golden Trout Wilderness covers over 300,000 acres. First protected in 1978, it is a land of diversity - from rolling forests and meadows up to high rugged granite summits.
The Golden Trout has supported native populations of golden trout (California’s state fish) for thousands of years in the drainages of the Upper Kern River. This wilderness contains all of the Little Kern River’s drainage as well as the North and South Fork of the Kern River plus 117 miles of streams; the Golden Trout Wilderness is a true trout haven.
However, golden trout populations have dwindled throughout the state and in the area due to predation and interbreeding from the non-native European brown trout. Pure populations of golden trout inhabit fewer than 10 miles of streams in the area. The local Little Kern golden trout and the Volcano Creek golden trout are classified as threatened while the endemic South Fork Kern golden trout, rainbow trout, from which golden trout evolved, and western sucker and squawfish are more abundant.
Wildflowers in Mulkey Meadow in the Golden Trout Wilderness ~ Photo: Calder Reid
GETTING THERE
Extending from the western foothills all the way to the eastern high desert, the Golden Trout Wilderness can be reached from both sides of the Sierra Nevada range. From the east, most visitors approach from Hwy 395 near Lone Pine. From the west, various roads stem from Hwy 190 near Giant Sequoia National Monument.
WILDERNESS PERMITS
Permits are required for all overnight trips into the Golden Trout. Why? Wilderness permits are available from the Sequoia and Inyo National Forests, depending on where you plan to enter the Wilderness.
For trails entering from the east, contact the Inyo. If you’re coming from the west, contact the Sequoia. See the sidebar for Forest Service links.
A quota is in effect for the Cottonwood Pass Trail in the Golden Trout Wilderness. This quota applies to all overnight visitors from the last Friday in June through September 15.
MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE
No more than 15 people and 25 head of stock are allowed on overnight trips. (Why?)
BEARS AND FOOD STORAGE
The Inyo and Sequoia National Forests each have a forest order regarding “proper” food storage.
In all wilderness areas of Inyo National Forest use of bear-resistant containers is strongly recommended. In eight specific areas it is mandatory to store food and refuse in a container designed to prevent access by bear. Where food storage containers are not mandatory the counter balance method of hanging food may be used, however where trees are not adequate for hanging food at least 15 feet above ground and 10 feet away from the tree trunk you must use a portable food storage container. No other methods of food storage are allowed.
Food storage containers are available for rent or sale at all the Inyo National Forest visitor centers where wilderness permits are issued.
More information about traveling in bear country in Inyo National Forest
CAMPFIRES
Campfires are prohibited at Chicken Spring Lake and Rocky Basin Lakes.
Campfires are discouraged anywhere above 9,000 feet. Campfire permits are required. In places where fires are allowed, make sure to always use smart campfire methods.
PETS
- Dogs are allowed in the Golden Trout Wilderness, but are not allowed in wilderness areas in adjacent national parks.
- Pet food must be stored to the same standard as people food. In areas where use of a bear resistant food storage container is required, pet food must be stored in your container.
- Leashes protect dogs from becoming lost and from wilderness hazards such as porcupines, mountain lions, and sick, injured or rabid animals.
- Unleashed dogs may intimidate other hikers and their dogs, depriving them of a peaceful wilderness experience.
- Unleashed dogs may harass, injure and sometimes kill wildlife.
- A leashed dog’s keen senses can enhance your awareness of nearby wildlife or other visitors.
CONTACT
Inyo National Forest
Supervisor’s Office
351 Pacu Lane, Suite 200
Bishop, CA 93514
(760) 873-2400
Sequoia National Forest
Supervisor’s Office
1839 South Newcomb St.
Porterville, CA 93257
559-784-1500
TTY 559-781-6650