Golden Trout Wilderness Map

Mt Langley and Cirque Peak, looking north from the shoulder of Kern Peak

The Golden Trout Wilderness is the jewel of the southern sierra, approved by congress in 1978, it covers 304,000 acres, or nearly 475 square miles. Named after California’s state fish, it is marked by endless green meadows, wild and scenic rivers, trout-filled creeks, and towering summits such as Kern Peak, Olancha Peak, Mt Florence and the highest point, Cirque Peak at 12,899 feet. The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) winds through the easternmost section of the wilderness.

The wilderness is located south of Sequoia National Park and is split between Inyo National Forest to the east, and Sequoia National Forest to the west, with the mighty Kern River bisecting the wilderness area. It can be reached from either side of the Sierra. The area is basically split between east and west for wilderness entry points. Backpackers can enter the wilderness from the east at Horseshoe Meadows (above Lone Pine, CA). From the south at Blackrock (above Kennedy Meadows). From the west at Forks of the Kern, Jerkey, or Lewis Camp, among others (near Camp Nelson, CA), as well as, from the north via Sequoia National Park at Farewell Gap or Kern Canyon. Permits are required for all overnight stays, and are avail from either Sequoia or Inyo National Forest depending on where you begin your trip. See our detailed Sierra Wilderness Permit Page.

We offer the Southern Sierra Trail Map to help you explore the Golden Trout Wilderness area.

Transportation:

• Eastern Sierra Transit — Connections for Thru Hikers
• Sierra Nevada Shuttles page — from climber.org
• Go West Transportation — private trailhead shuttles from MAWS

General Links:

• The best resource for Golden Trout Information! Has itineraries with maps and so much more!
• Tom Harrison Map of the Golden Trout Wilderness
• Recreation Guide from the USFS for Golden Trout Wilderness
• Summit Post page for Golden Trout Wilderness
• Sequoia National Forest page for Golden Trout
• Inyo National Forest page for Golden Trout
• Sierrawild.gov info for Golden Trout