Granite Chief is not in Desolation Wilderness, and no permit is required to go there. Granite Chief is a separate designated wilderness, managed by the Tahoe National Forest, and the Forest Service says wilderness permits are not presently required there for day or overnight use.
Plan your Desolation Wilderness trip here, then get your permit from the agency.
Walk-up permit
How to get Granite Chief
The Forest Service does not require a permit here, so you can just go. The permit page linked below covers Desolation Wilderness itself.
Official permit pagePlanning another trip? See the permits we alert on.
How to get a Granite Chief permit
- Permit required
- No
- Type
- Overnight
- Location
- CA
How this permit is issued
Official permit page →More on Granite Chief: Live availability activity
When to hike Granite Chief
Weather Forecast
Trailhead (5,000 ft)
Backcountry Tips
- Day 4: Extreme heat (96°F). Carry extra water, start at dawn.
- Day 5: Extreme heat (96°F). Carry extra water, start at dawn.
- Day 6: Extreme heat (99°F). Carry extra water, start at dawn.
Today
76°
58°
Tue
81°
60°
Wed
91°
67°
Thu
96°
71°
Fri
96°
73°
Sat
99°
74°
Sun
99°
75°
Granite Chief rules, gear and safety
Safety & planning
Emergency Info
Emergency contacts, ranger station locations, and satellite communicator tips for Granite Chief.
Food Storage
Bear canister requirements, approved container lists, and rental locations for this permit.
Gear Checklist: Required and recommended gear for Granite Chief · Shuttle Services: Trailhead transportation options · Guide Services: Experienced wilderness guides
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Granite Chief FAQ
How do I get a Granite Chief permit?
Granite Chief is issued directly by the agency. The Forest Service does not require a permit here, so you can just go. The permit page linked below covers Desolation Wilderness itself. Bring backup dates and check their page for the current process.
When is the best time to visit Granite Chief?
Season dates are on the agency's page. Weekdays have better availability than weekends.
How competitive is the Granite Chief permit?
This permit has a demand score of 6/10, making it moderately competitive.
What if I can't get a Granite Chief permit?
The agency awards this permit directly. Bring backup dates and check the official page for the current process and any closures.
Granite Chief trail conditions and trip reports
Trail Conditions
No active conditions reported
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Questions
No questions yet
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Trip Reports
Write ReportAlternatives to a Granite Chief permit
Where to stay near Granite Chief
- Potwisha CampgroundSequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
- Buckeye Flat CampgroundSequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
- Atwell Mill CampgroundSequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
- All California campgrounds
Trip planning
Articles that plan a trip around this permit.
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