Loon Lake is one of the trailheads you enter Desolation Wilderness from, in the Lake Tahoe area. The permit is issued by the zone you camp in on your first night, not by the trailhead you start at, so nothing is sold under this name.
Plan your Desolation Wilderness trip here, then get your permit from the agency.
Walk-up permit
How to get Loon Lake
Loon Lake is an entry point. Desolation permits are sold by the zone you camp in on your first night, so pick that zone and set an alert on it. The Forest Service lists the zones, the per-zone quotas and the walk-in offices on its permit page.
Official permit pagePlanning another trip? See the permits we alert on.
How to get a Loon Lake permit
- Type
- Overnight
- Location
- CA
How this permit is issued
Official permit page →Step 1: How this permit is issued
Loon Lake is an entry point. Desolation permits are sold by the zone you camp in on your first night, so pick that zone and set an alert on it. The Forest Service lists the zones, the per-zone quotas and the walk-in offices on its permit page.
Step 2: Check the agency page before you go
Fees, hours and closures change. Confirm the current process at U.S. Forest Service before your trip.
Step 3: Have backup plans
Office hours move, ground closes, and popular trailheads get busy. Know an alternative route or date before you drive out.
More on Loon Lake: Live availability activity
When to hike Loon Lake
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°
Loon Lake rules, gear and safety
Safety & planning
Emergency Info
Emergency contacts, ranger station locations, and satellite communicator tips for Loon Lake.
Food Storage
Bear canister requirements, approved container lists, and rental locations for this permit.
Gear Checklist: Required and recommended gear for Loon Lake · Shuttle Services: Trailhead transportation options · Guide Services: Experienced wilderness guides
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Loon Lake FAQ
How do I get a Loon Lake permit?
Loon Lake is issued directly by the agency. Loon Lake is an entry point. Desolation permits are sold by the zone you camp in on your first night, so pick that zone and set an alert on it. The Forest Service lists the zones, the per-zone quotas and the walk-in offices on its permit page. Bring backup dates and check their page for the current process.
When is the best time to visit Loon Lake?
Season dates are on the agency's page. Weekdays have better availability than weekends.
How competitive is the Loon Lake permit?
This permit has a demand score of 5/10, making it moderately competitive.
What if I can't get a Loon Lake permit?
The agency awards this permit directly. Bring backup dates and check the official page for the current process and any closures.
Loon Lake trail conditions and trip reports
Trail Conditions
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Questions
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Trip Reports
Write ReportAlternatives to a Loon Lake permit
Where to stay near Loon Lake
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