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