Desolation Wilderness

The Desolation Wilderness Map shows the premiere backpacking area in the Lake Tahoe Basin.  Permits are required for both Day-Use and Overnight stays.  Day-Use permits are free and are available for self-registration at major trailheads.

There are 9 westside trailheads, and 6 eastside trailheads.  Link to the Eldorado NF permit page.  Link to the Desolation Trip Planning Guide.  Permits can be reserved online at Recreation.gov or in-person at the Placerville Ranger Station(map)

The map offers a very readable scale and excellent detail including trail mileage and elevation points. It shows zone boundaries, trailheads, campgrounds, ranger stations, equestrian facilities, forest service roads and more.