Desolation Wilderness Permit — Twin Lakes
Desolation Wilderness · California
Overnight permit for the Twin Lakes zone in Desolation Wilderness, Lake Tahoe area.
Get an alert when Twin Lakes opens on your dates.
70% of the openings our scanner caught on Twin Lakes were gone within 10 minutes.
Twin Lakes reservation dates
- max group size
- 12people
How to get a Twin Lakes permit
As of September 2026, Twin Lakes in Desolation Wilderness, California requires a permit issued via reservation. Twin Lakes rates 6/10 on PermitSnag's demand index. Cancelled Twin Lakes 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 Twin Lakes: Live availability activityWhen Twin Lakes permits open up
When to hike Twin Lakes
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°
Twin Lakes rules, gear and safety
Safety & planning
Emergency Info
Emergency contacts, ranger station locations, and satellite communicator tips for Twin Lakes.
Food Storage
Bear canister requirements, approved container lists, and rental locations for this permit.
Gear Checklist: Required and recommended gear for Twin Lakes · Shuttle Services: Trailhead transportation options · Guide Services: Experienced wilderness guides
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Twin Lakes FAQ
How do I get a Twin Lakes permit?
PermitSnag alerts you the moment a Twin Lakes cancellation opens, so you can book it before anyone else. Twin Lakes permits use a reservation system.
When is the best time to visit Twin Lakes?
Season dates are on the agency's page. Weekdays have better availability than weekends.
How competitive is the Twin Lakes permit?
This permit has a demand score of 6/10, making it moderately competitive.
What if I can't get a Twin Lakes 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.
Twin Lakes 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 Twin Lakes permit
Where to stay near Twin Lakes
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