Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Guided tours
No
Backcountry camping
Yes
Lodging
No
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

The Hoover Wilderness is a federally protected area of Inyo and Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forests. It lies to the east of the Sierra Crest, north of Yosemite National Park, and is managed by the United States Forest Service. 

Hoover Wilderness is a rugged and scenic area in the Sierra Nevada that was one of the first areas to be protected under the National Wilderness Protection System (NWPS). The terrain is rugged and steep, ranging in elevation from approximately 7,000 feet to 12,000 feet. It is a premier hiking destination due to its picturesque alpine lakes, lush meadows, and well-maintained single track trails. 

The area is jointly managed by the Inyo National Forest Service and the Humboldt-Toiybe National Forest Service.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Twenty Lakes Basin

  • Virginia Lakes Basin

  • The Sawtooth Ridge and Matterhorn Peak which rises to 12, 285’ and is the highest point in the Sawtooth Range. 

OUTDOOR RECREATION

Hoover Wilderness rises from the Great Basin up to the Sierra Crest and boasts magnificent scenery with well-maintained trails making it a popular destination for hiking, trail running, mountain climbing, backpacking and more. 

PERMITS

Permits are required year round for overnight stays in Hoover Wilderness and can be reserved in advance through www.recreation.gov

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Mono Basin Scenic Area Visitor Center:  1-760-647-3044

Inyo National Forest Wilderness Permit Office: 1-760-873-2483

Humboldt/ Toiyabe National Forest: 1-760-932-7070

 

 

Logistics + Planning

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Alpine Lakes. Meadows.

Cons

Very popular.

Features

Wildlife
Backcountry camping
Big vistas
Wildflowers
Bird watching
Horseback riding

Location

Nearby Adventures

Eastern Sierra + White Mountains Area, California
Eastern Sierra + White Mountains Area, California

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