Desolation Wilderness Permit — Hemlock
Desolation Wilderness · California
Grouse Lake and Hemlock Lake, a Special Management area with designated campsites and restoration sites, reached from the Twin Lakes Trailhead. Day use at Grouse Lake is heavy.
Get an alert when Hemlock opens on your dates.
70% of the openings our scanner caught on Hemlock were gone within 10 minutes.
Hemlock reservation dates
- max group size
- 12people
How to get a Hemlock permit
As of September 2026, Hemlock in Desolation Wilderness, California requires a permit issued via reservation. Hemlock is a high-demand permit, rating 7/10 on PermitSnag's demand index. Cancelled Hemlock permits are re-released on the booking system, and PermitSnag alerts you the moment one opens.
- Type
- Overnight
- Location
- CA
Step 1: Create an account before permits drop
Find this permit on the managing agency's booking system and set up an account with your payment info ready.
Step 2: Know the release schedule
Permits release on a rolling basis. Check the release time for your dates.
Step 3: Be ready when permits drop
Log in a few minutes early. Have your dates, group size, and payment ready to go.
Step 4: Monitor for cancellations
If your dates are sold out, people cancel all the time. Set up PermitSnag alerts to catch openings instantly.
More on Hemlock: Live availability activityWhen Hemlock permits open up
When to hike Hemlock
Weather Forecast
Trailhead (5,000 ft)
Today
59°
39°
Wed
67°
46°
Thu
70°
45°
Fri
69°
47°
Sat
70°
48°
Sun
67°
47°
Mon
66°
46°
Hemlock rules, gear and safety
Safety & planning
Emergency Info
Emergency contacts, ranger station locations, and satellite communicator tips for Hemlock.
Food Storage
Bear canister requirements, approved container lists, and rental locations for this permit.
Gear Checklist: Required and recommended gear for Hemlock · Shuttle Services: Trailhead transportation options · Guide Services: Experienced wilderness guides
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Hemlock FAQ
How do I get a Hemlock permit?
PermitSnag alerts you the moment a Hemlock cancellation opens, so you can book it before anyone else. Hemlock permits use a reservation system.
When is the best time to visit Hemlock?
Season dates are on the agency's page. Weekdays have better availability than weekends.
How competitive is the Hemlock permit?
This permit has a demand score of 7/10, making it highly competitive. We recommend having backup dates and using PermitSnag's cancellation alerts.
What if I can't get a Hemlock permit?
Cancellations happen daily. Set up alerts with PermitSnag to get notified the moment a spot opens up. Pro and $19 single-permit alerts are checked about every minute, 24/7; free accounts are checked hourly.
Hemlock trail conditions and trip reports
Trail Conditions
No active conditions reported
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Questions
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Trip Reports
Write ReportAlternatives to a Hemlock permit
Where to stay near Hemlock
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