Eldorado National Forest

Recreational Activities

Wilderness Areas

The Wilderness Act of 1964 states that Wilderness is to be "protected and managed so as to preserve its natural conditions and [is an area] which...has outstanding opportunities for solitude or a primitive and unconfined type of recreation...".

As a visitor to our Wilderness, you have the opportunity to experience solitude and nature in its most wild state, to enjoy spectacular scenery, and to hike, cross-country ski, ride horseback, or enjoy other outdoor activities. These attractions and easy access from urban areas draw thousands of people to our Wilderness each year.

A Wilderness is an area where natural processes take precedent; a place where nature remains substantially unchanged by human use. You will find nature on its own terms; there are no buildings or roads. Travel in the wilderness is restricted to hikers and packstock. No motorized, mechanized, or wheeled equipment such as bicycles, motorcycles, snowmobiles or game carts are allowed. Rugged trails provide the only access, and hazards such as high stream crossings and sudden stormy weather may be encountered at any time. These are all part of a wilderness experience.

For more information on natural history, permits, rules, etc. check out the following pages:

DESOLATION WILDERNESS

Desolation Wilderness is located along the crest of the Sierras north of Highway 50 between Sacramento and South Lake Tahoe.  

MOKELUMNE WILDERNESS

Mokelumne Wilderness lies within portions of Calaveras, Alpine, and Amador Counties and is bordered by State Highway 4 on the south and State Highway 88 on the north.