Desolation Wilderness Permit — Lyons
Desolation Wilderness · California
Overnight permit for the Lyons zone in Desolation Wilderness, which covers both Lyons Creek and Lyons Lake. Recreation.gov sells the zone, not the individual lakes.
Get an alert when Lyons opens on your dates.
70% of the openings our scanner caught on Lyons were gone within 10 minutes.
Lyons reservation dates
- max group size
- 12people
How to get a Lyons permit
As of September 2026, Lyons in Desolation Wilderness, California requires a permit issued via reservation. Lyons rates 5/10 on PermitSnag's demand index. Cancelled Lyons permits are re-released on the booking system, and PermitSnag alerts you the moment one opens.
- Type
- Overnight
- Location
- CA
Step 1: Create a U.S. Forest Service account
Sign up at U.S. Forest Service if you don't have an account. Have 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 Lyons: Live availability activityWhen Lyons permits open up
When to hike Lyons
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°
Lyons rules, gear and safety
Safety & planning
Emergency Info
Emergency contacts, ranger station locations, and satellite communicator tips for Lyons.
Food Storage
Bear canister requirements, approved container lists, and rental locations for this permit.
Gear Checklist: Required and recommended gear for Lyons · Shuttle Services: Trailhead transportation options · Guide Services: Experienced wilderness guides
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Lyons FAQ
How do I get a Lyons permit?
PermitSnag alerts you the moment a Lyons cancellation opens, so you can book it before anyone else. Lyons permits use a reservation system.
When is the best time to visit Lyons?
Season dates are on the agency's page. Weekdays have better availability than weekends.
How competitive is the Lyons permit?
This permit has a demand score of 5/10, making it moderately competitive.
What if I can't get a Lyons 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.
Lyons 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 Lyons permit
Where to stay near Lyons
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