Desolation Wilderness Permit — Tahoe Rim Trail
Desolation Wilderness · California
Desolation Wilderness zone permit for Tahoe Rim Trail thru-hikers. Recreation.gov sells it as "Tahoe Rim Trail (Thru Hike Only)". It is not a zone permit for a single night out.
Get an alert when Tahoe Rim Trail opens on your dates.
70% of the openings our scanner caught on Tahoe Rim Trail were gone within 10 minutes.
Tahoe Rim Trail reservation dates
- max group size
- 12people
How to get a Tahoe Rim Trail permit
As of September 2026, Tahoe Rim Trail in Desolation Wilderness, California requires a permit issued via reservation. Tahoe Rim Trail rates 6/10 on PermitSnag's demand index. Cancelled Tahoe Rim Trail 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 Tahoe Rim Trail: Live availability activityWhen Tahoe Rim Trail permits open up
When to hike Tahoe Rim Trail
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°
Tahoe Rim Trail rules, gear and safety
Safety & planning
Emergency Info
Emergency contacts, ranger station locations, and satellite communicator tips for Tahoe Rim Trail.
Food Storage
Bear canister requirements, approved container lists, and rental locations for this permit.
Gear Checklist: Required and recommended gear for Tahoe Rim Trail · Shuttle Services: Trailhead transportation options · Guide Services: Experienced wilderness guides
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Tahoe Rim Trail FAQ
How do I get a Tahoe Rim Trail permit?
PermitSnag alerts you the moment a Tahoe Rim Trail cancellation opens, so you can book it before anyone else. Tahoe Rim Trail permits use a reservation system.
When is the best time to visit Tahoe Rim Trail?
Season dates are on the agency's page. Weekdays have better availability than weekends.
How competitive is the Tahoe Rim Trail permit?
This permit has a demand score of 6/10, making it moderately competitive.
What if I can't get a Tahoe Rim Trail 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.
Tahoe Rim Trail trail conditions and trip reports
Trail Conditions
No active conditions reported
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Questions
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Trip Reports
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Where to stay near Tahoe Rim Trail
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