The South Sierra Wilderness’s 62,700 acres span both the east and western slopes of the southern Sierra. Protected as wilderness in 1984 by the California Wilderness Act, the Wild and Scenic South Fork of the Kern River bisects this wilderness.
The craggy peaks and forested ridges (ranging from 6,100 feet near Kennedy Meadows to 12,123 feet at Olancha Peak) of this wilderness combine ancient granite features with volcanic rock formations and boulders. Basalt lava flows from a million years go can be observed on the banks of the South Fork of the Kern.
During the late 1800’s the large Monache/Beck Meadow complexes were heavily used as pasture for cattle, sheep, and goat. Permit-based grazing still continues under the supervision of the Forest Service.
The Owens Valley Paiute and the Panamint Shoshone both inhabited and harvested the fruits of this rugged land less than a 150 years ago. Signs of human presence have been discovered in the South Sierra that are at least 6,000 years old.
WILDERNESS PERMITS
The South Sierra is managed by both the Inyo and Sequoia National Forests. No wilderness permit is required for entry from the west side of the Wilderness (trailheads starting from the Sequoia National Forest), however a campfire permit is required for gas lanterns, stoves, and campfires. If entering the South Sierra from the east side through Inyo National Forest, a wilderness permit is required.
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 discouraged anywhere above 9,000 feet. If entering from the west side of the wilderness (Sequoia National Forest) a campfire permit is required for gas lanterns, stoves, and campfires. In places where fires are allowed, make sure to always use smart campfire methods.
PETS
- Dogs are allowed in the South Sierra 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 Street
Porterville, CA 93257
559-784-1500
FAX 559-781-4744
TDD 559-781-6650