Alternative route to San Gorgonio.
Plan your San Gorgonio Wilderness trip here, then get your permit from the agency.
Plan your trip
How to get South Fork
Get this permit from the San Gorgonio forest permit page. Recreation.gov does not sell San Gorgonio Wilderness permits.
Official permit pagePlanning another trip? See the permits we alert on.
How to get a South Fork permit
- 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.
More on South Fork: Live availability activityWhen South Fork permits open up
When to hike South Fork
Weather Forecast
Trailhead (5,000 ft)
Today
65°
47°
Wed
66°
52°
Thu
72°
55°
Fri
87°
56°
Sat
87°
58°
Sun
86°
58°
Mon
85°
59°
South Fork rules, gear and safety
Safety & planning
Emergency Info
Emergency contacts, ranger station locations, and satellite communicator tips for South Fork.
Food Storage
Bear canister requirements, approved container lists, and rental locations for this permit.
Gear Checklist: Required and recommended gear for South Fork · Shuttle Services: Trailhead transportation options · Guide Services: Experienced wilderness guides
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South Fork FAQ
How do I get a South Fork permit?
South Fork is issued directly by the agency. Get this permit from the San Gorgonio forest permit page. Recreation.gov does not sell San Gorgonio Wilderness permits. Bring backup dates and check their page for the current process.
When is the best time to visit South Fork?
Season dates are on the agency's page. Weekdays have better availability than weekends.
How competitive is the South Fork permit?
This permit has a demand score of 6/10, making it moderately competitive.
What if I can't get a South Fork permit?
The agency awards this permit directly. Bring backup dates and check the official page for the current process and any closures.
South Fork 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 South Fork permit
Where to stay near South Fork
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