John Muir Wilderness

The John Muir Wilderness is a 652,793 acre wilderness area that extends along the crest of the Sierra Nevada, located within the Inyo and Sierra National Forests. The area is managed by the United States Forest Service. 

The area is named after John Muir, a naturalist who spent his life advocating for the protection of the wild parts of the Sierra Nevada. The John Muir Wilderness encompasses many of the areas he explored in the late 1800’s. The region is characterized by tall granite peaks, deep canyons, and awe-inspiring glacially carved terrain. There are scenic meadows, peaceful streams, and raging rivers. 

As a result of its proximity to several major cities, including Sacramento, Reno, and Los Angeles, the John Muir Wilderness is heavily used.

RECREATION ACTIVITIES

• Hiking

• Backpacking

• Camping

• Fishing

• Horseback Riding

PERMITS

Permit information and reservations can be found at www.recreation.gov. 

• Permits are required for all overnight use.

• Permits are required for day use in the Whitney Zone. 

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

• Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks are accessible via the John Muir Wilderness.

• The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) runs north/south through the wilderness.

• The John Muir Trail (JMT)  runs north/south through the wilderness.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Inyo National Forest: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/inyo/recarea/?recid=21875

White Mountain Public Lands Information Center: 1-(760) 873-2500

Eastern Sierra Visitor Center: 1-(760) 876-6200

Wilderness permit information: 1- (760) 873-2483