Desolation Wilderness

Because of its beauty and accessibility, Desolation Wilderness is per acre, the most heavily used wilderness area in the country. Desolation Wilderness is 12.5 miles long and 8 miles and is accessed by 15 named and numbered trailheads under a quota system. Day hikers fill out registration forms at the head, but overnighters must pay a fee and register ahead of time. Magnificent views are available from all over, specifically one atop a granite slope that overlooks Emerald Bay. Desolation contains 63,960 acres of subalpine forests, glacial lakes and valleys, and granite peaks. A portion of the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail/Tahoe Rim Trail passes through the area.