Silver Peak Wilderness hot springs corridor.
Plan your Los Padres National Forest trip here, then get your permit from the agency.
Walk-up permit
How to get Buckeye Trail
Buckeye Trail is issued by the agency rather than through a booking calendar. Their page has the current process and any dates.
Official permit pagePlanning another trip? See the permits we alert on.
How to get a Buckeye Trail permit
- Type
- Backpacking
- Location
- CA
How this permit is issued
Get this permit in person at the trailhead or ranger station, or by phone.
Official permit page →Step 1: Check the agency page for the process
This permit is not sold online. Confirm where and when it is issued (and any fee) at U.S. Forest Service before your trip.
Step 2: Arrive early
Walk-up permits are issued first-come, first-served. Where the agency sets a daily quota, popular trailheads can run out on weekends and holidays.
Step 3: Have backup plans
Popular trailheads fill fast. Know alternate routes or dates.
More on Buckeye Trail: Live availability activity
When to hike Buckeye Trail
Weather Forecast
Trailhead (5,000 ft)
Today
80°
52°
Wed
84°
60°
Thu
88°
63°
Fri
91°
65°
Sat
91°
66°
Sun
90°
69°
Mon
90°
67°
Buckeye Trail rules, gear and safety
Safety & planning
Emergency Info
Emergency contacts, ranger station locations, and satellite communicator tips for Buckeye Trail.
Food Storage
Bear canister requirements, approved container lists, and rental locations for this permit.
Gear Checklist: Required and recommended gear for Buckeye Trail · Shuttle Services: Trailhead transportation options · Guide Services: Experienced wilderness guides
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Buckeye Trail FAQ
How do I get a Buckeye Trail permit?
Buckeye Trail is issued directly by the agency. It is issued in person or by phone, so there is no reservation to book and no cancellation to catch. Bring backup dates and check their page for the current process.
When is the best time to visit Buckeye Trail?
Season dates are on the agency's page. Weekdays have better availability than weekends.
How competitive is the Buckeye Trail permit?
This permit has a demand score of 7/10, making it highly competitive. We recommend having backup dates and reading the official permit page for how this one is issued.
What if I can't get a Buckeye Trail permit?
The agency awards this permit directly. Bring backup dates and check the official page for the current process and any closures.
Buckeye Trail 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 Buckeye Trail permit
Where to stay near Buckeye Trail
- Pine Mountain CampgroundLos Padres National Forest
- Reyes Peak CampgroundLos Padres National Forest
- Reyes Creek CampgroundLos Padres National Forest
- All California campgrounds
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