Desolation Wilderness overnight trips near McConnell, Lake Tahoe area. Desolation permits are issued by the zone you camp in on your first night, and no zone carries this name.
Plan your Desolation Wilderness trip here, then get your permit from the agency.
Walk-up permit
How to get McConnell
Desolation Wilderness permits are sold by destination zone. Pick the zone you will spend your first night in 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 McConnell permit
- Type
- Overnight
- Location
- CA
How this permit is issued
Official permit page →Step 1: How this permit is issued
Desolation Wilderness permits are sold by destination zone. Pick the zone you will spend your first night in 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 McConnell: Live availability activity
When to hike McConnell
McConnell rules, gear and safety
Safety & planning
Emergency Info
Emergency contacts, ranger station locations, and satellite communicator tips for McConnell.
Food Storage
Bear canister requirements, approved container lists, and rental locations for this permit.
Gear Checklist: Required and recommended gear for McConnell · Shuttle Services: Trailhead transportation options · Guide Services: Experienced wilderness guides
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McConnell FAQ
How do I get a McConnell permit?
McConnell is issued directly by the agency. Desolation Wilderness permits are sold by destination zone. Pick the zone you will spend your first night in 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 McConnell?
Season dates are on the agency's page. Weekdays have better availability than weekends.
How competitive is the McConnell permit?
This permit has a demand score of 5/10, making it moderately competitive.
What if I can't get a McConnell permit?
The agency awards this permit directly. Bring backup dates and check the official page for the current process and any closures.
McConnell trail conditions and trip reports
Trail Conditions
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Trip Reports
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