Desolation Wilderness: A Pristine Alpine Paradise
Location and Geography
Nestled just west of Lake Tahoe, Desolation Wilderness encompasses 63,475 acres of breathtaking alpine and subalpine landscapes. Designated as a wilderness area in 1969, it boasts a unique granite landscape shaped by glaciers over centuries. These glaciers carved out the 130 pristine lakes that dot the wilderness, some of which span an impressive 900 acres.
Sierra Nevada Mountains and Pacific Crest Trail
Desolation Wilderness straddles the Sierra Nevada Mountains, stretching 12.5 miles in length and 8 miles in width. A significant portion of the Pacific Crest Trail, approximately 17 miles, traverses the wilderness. Dicks Pass, the trail’s highest point within Desolation Wilderness at 9,380 feet, offers hikers a challenging pass as they journey towards Canada.
Lakes and Waterfalls
Beyond its majestic mountains, Desolation Wilderness is renowned for its numerous lakes and waterfalls. The 130 lakes provide ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. Horsetail Falls, a seasonal waterfall that flows in the winter and early spring, is a popular attraction, spanning a total of 500 feet.
Flora and Fauna
The diverse ecosystem of Desolation Wilderness supports a rich variety of flora and fauna. Wildflowers bloom in vibrant hues during the summer months, attracting butterflies and hummingbirds. Marmots and deer roam the wilderness, relying on its pristine environment for survival.
Hiking and Camping
Desolation Wilderness offers a multitude of hiking trails for visitors of all abilities. Day hikes can be enjoyed on shorter trails, while backpacking trips allow hikers to explore the wilderness in depth. Numerous campsites are available for overnight stays, providing campers with breathtaking views and access to the area’s natural wonders.
Fishing and Boating
The lakes of Desolation Wilderness are teeming with trout, making it a popular destination for anglers. Visitors can cast their lines for rainbow, brown, and golden trout. Boating is also a popular activity, with kayaks and canoes available for rent at many trailheads.
Wildlife Viewing
Desolation Wilderness provides ample opportunities for wildlife viewing. Marmots, deer, and pikas can be spotted along the trails and around the lakes. Birdwatchers can observe a variety of species, including bald eagles, osprey, and Stellar’s jays.
Permits and Regulations
To preserve the pristine environment of Desolation Wilderness, all visitors, whether staying for the day or overnight, must obtain a permit. Permits can be obtained online or at the wilderness ranger station. Visitors are also required to follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize their impact on the area.
Additional Information
- Location: California
- Size: 63,475 acres
- Year Designated: 1969
- Fast Fact: Desolation Wilderness is one of the most popular wilderness areas in the country and home to Horsetail Falls, a nearly 500-foot waterfall.
