Desolation Wilderness Permit — Rockbound Pass
Desolation Wilderness · California
Lake Doris, on the eastern side of Rockbound Pass. Access is from the Rockbound Trailhead at Wrights Lake, over the pass.
Get an alert when Rockbound Pass opens on your dates.
70% of the openings our scanner caught on Rockbound Pass were gone within 10 minutes.
Rockbound Pass reservation dates
- max group size
- 12people
How to get a Rockbound Pass permit
As of September 2026, Rockbound Pass in Desolation Wilderness, California requires a permit issued via reservation. Rockbound Pass rates 6/10 on PermitSnag's demand index. Cancelled Rockbound Pass 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 Rockbound Pass: Live availability activityWhen Rockbound Pass permits open up
When to hike Rockbound Pass
Weather Forecast
Trailhead (5,000 ft)
Today
60°
52°
Wed
69°
51°
Thu
75°
60°
Fri
82°
57°
29%
Sat
61°
47°
29%
Sun
54°
46°
47%
Mon
58°
43°
Rockbound Pass rules, gear and safety
Safety & planning
Emergency Info
Emergency contacts, ranger station locations, and satellite communicator tips for Rockbound Pass.
Food Storage
Bear canister requirements, approved container lists, and rental locations for this permit.
Gear Checklist: Required and recommended gear for Rockbound Pass · Shuttle Services: Trailhead transportation options · Guide Services: Experienced wilderness guides
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Rockbound Pass FAQ
How do I get a Rockbound Pass permit?
PermitSnag alerts you the moment a Rockbound Pass cancellation opens, so you can book it before anyone else. Rockbound Pass permits use a reservation system.
When is the best time to visit Rockbound Pass?
Season dates are on the agency's page. Weekdays have better availability than weekends.
How competitive is the Rockbound Pass permit?
This permit has a demand score of 6/10, making it moderately competitive.
What if I can't get a Rockbound Pass 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.
Rockbound Pass trail conditions and trip reports
Trail Conditions
No active conditions reported
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Questions
No questions yet
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Trip Reports
Write ReportAlternatives to a Rockbound Pass permit
Where to stay near Rockbound Pass
- Big Meadows Campground - Shenandoah (Va)Shenandoah National Park
- Mathews Arm CampgroundShenandoah National Park
- Lewis Mountain CampgroundShenandoah National Park
- All California campgrounds
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