Inyo NF Wilderness Permit — Deer Lakes
Inyo National Forest · California
Wilderness permit for entry via Deer Lakes in Inyo National Forest. Access to John Muir Wilderness and Ansel Adams Wilderness.
Get an alert when Deer Lakes opens on your dates.
70% of the openings our scanner caught on Deer Lakes were gone within 10 minutes.
Deer Lakes reservation dates
- max group size
- 15people
How to get a Deer Lakes permit
As of September 2026, Deer Lakes in Inyo National Forest, California requires a permit issued via reservation. Deer Lakes rates 5/10 on PermitSnag's demand index. Cancelled Deer Lakes 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 Deer Lakes: Live availability activityWhen Deer Lakes permits open up
When to hike Deer Lakes
Weather Forecast
Trailhead (5,000 ft)
Backcountry Tips
- Day 4: Extreme heat (100°F). Carry extra water, start at dawn.
- Day 5: Extreme heat (101°F). Carry extra water, start at dawn.
- Day 6: Extreme heat (99°F). Carry extra water, start at dawn.
Today
88°
57°
Wed
88°
59°
Thu
94°
60°
Fri
100°
67°
Sat
101°
72°
Sun
99°
73°
Mon
97°
73°
Deer Lakes rules, gear and safety
Safety & planning
Emergency Info
Emergency contacts, ranger station locations, and satellite communicator tips for Deer Lakes.
Food Storage
Bear canister requirements, approved container lists, and rental locations for this permit.
Gear Checklist: Required and recommended gear for Deer Lakes · Shuttle Services: Trailhead transportation options · Guide Services: Experienced wilderness guides
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Deer Lakes FAQ
How do I get a Deer Lakes permit?
PermitSnag alerts you the moment a Deer Lakes cancellation opens, so you can book it before anyone else. Deer Lakes permits use a reservation system.
When is the best time to visit Deer Lakes?
Season dates are on the agency's page. Weekdays have better availability than weekends.
How competitive is the Deer Lakes permit?
This permit has a demand score of 5/10, making it moderately competitive.
What if I can't get a Deer 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.
Deer Lakes 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 Deer Lakes
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