Desolation Wilderness Permit — Phipps
Desolation Wilderness · California
Holds Phipps Lake, Phipps Peak and Phipps Pass. The Pacific Crest Trail and the Tahoe-Yosemite Trail both run through this zone, though the user trail to Phipps Lake itself can be hard to locate.
Get an alert when Phipps opens on your dates.
70% of the openings our scanner caught on Phipps were gone within 10 minutes.
Phipps reservation dates
- max group size
- 12people
How to get a Phipps permit
As of September 2026, Phipps in Desolation Wilderness, California requires a permit issued via reservation. Phipps rates 5/10 on PermitSnag's demand index. Cancelled Phipps 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 Phipps: Live availability activityWhen Phipps permits open up
When to hike Phipps
Weather Forecast
Trailhead (5,000 ft)
Today
80°
52°
Wed
81°
56°
Thu
72°
56°
Fri
80°
63°
Sat
85°
66°
Sun
82°
65°
Mon
83°
66°
Phipps rules, gear and safety
Safety & planning
Emergency Info
Emergency contacts, ranger station locations, and satellite communicator tips for Phipps.
Food Storage
Bear canister requirements, approved container lists, and rental locations for this permit.
Gear Checklist: Required and recommended gear for Phipps · Shuttle Services: Trailhead transportation options · Guide Services: Experienced wilderness guides
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Phipps FAQ
How do I get a Phipps permit?
PermitSnag alerts you the moment a Phipps cancellation opens, so you can book it before anyone else. Phipps permits use a reservation system.
When is the best time to visit Phipps?
Season dates are on the agency's page. Weekdays have better availability than weekends.
How competitive is the Phipps permit?
This permit has a demand score of 5/10, making it moderately competitive.
What if I can't get a Phipps 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.
Phipps trail conditions and trip reports
Trail Conditions
No active conditions reported
Sign in to report trail conditions.
Questions
No questions yet
Be the first to ask about Phipps.
Trip Reports
Write ReportAlternatives to a Phipps permit
Where to stay near Phipps
- Aquatic Park Cove, Black Point Overnight Anchoring, Sailing Vessels only (auxiliary engine Ok) campgroundSan Francisco Maritime National Historical Park
- Rob Hill Group CampgroundPresidio of San Francisco
- Angel Island Sp Ridge (sites 4-6) campgroundAngel Island SP
- All California campgrounds
Plan the full trip, not just the permit
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Add your dates and get a day-by-day plan: what needs a permit, what gear to bring, and one link to share with your whole group to coordinate every step.
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