U.S. Forest Service Press Release

The Inyo National Forest has implemented 05-04-50-200-21, effective November 3. This opens the Inyo portions of the South Sierra, parts of the Golden Trout, most of the John Muir, parts of the Ansel Adams and all the Owens River Headwaters, and Hoover Wilderness Areas.

As a reminder, wilderness permits are required year-round for all Mt Whitney hikes (including day use) and for all overnight trips into Golden Trout, John Muir, Ansel Adams, and Hoover Wilderness Areas.

Check for road closures and weather forecast before choosing a trip in late fall or winter. Remember: Mountain Safety is no Accident. Check the Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center for winter conditions.

The non-quota season is November 2 through April 30.

Previously, during the non-quota season visitors would wait in line for “walk up” permits or utilize self-issue forms. While our facilities remain closed to the public to protect the health and safety of our employees and the public, we will continue to offer services online and by phone issuing wilderness permits through the virtual process established during the 2020 summer season.

Inyo National Forest

Visitors may book a wilderness permit by making a reservation on the recreation.gov website. After completing the reservation, follow the instructions in the reservation confirmation for how to “Check-in by Email” to request the permit.

Print and sign your permit before your trip. As group leader you are agreeing to follow all the rules and regulations and ensure that members of your group do likewise. Signed permits must be in group leaders’ possession during the trip and must be presented to rangers upon request

Plan ahead for holidays as visitor services will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Allow a few days to receive a permit by Email Check-in. To expedite a permit by phone, call during business hours, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.

Winter Season Hours
Wilderness Permit Office – Phone service 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. 760-873-2483.  Closed for holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day).

Mono Basin – Closed for the season.

Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center – Phone service, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. 760-924-5500. Closed holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day)

White Mountain Ranger Station – Phone service: Monday-Friday 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, 760-873-2500, 760-873-2501, closed holidays (Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day)

Eastern Sierra Visitor Center – Phone service Monday-Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm., 760-876-6200, 760-876-6222. Closed holidays (Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day)