The Golden Trout Wilderness encompasses approximately 304,000 acres in an area known as the Kern Plateau, at the southern end of the Sierra Nevada. A large drainage basin surrounded by high, jagged peaks dominates the western portion of the Wilderness in Sequoia National Forest, which manages approximately 192,000 acres.  The eastern portion in Inyo National Forest is primarily an extension of the Kern Plateau. Pinion-pine woodlands rise to extensive Jeffrey pine forestland and meadows at middle elevations, and on to red fir, lodgepole pines, and foxtail pines at higher elevations before hitting the tree line. The area is traversed by several hundred miles of scenic trails and two wild and scenic rivers (North and South Forks of the Kern River). The Golden Trout Wilderness was designated by Congress in 1978. It is named after California’s brightly colored state fish, which is native only to the waters of the Golden Trout Wilderness.  The brightly colored California state fish lives in relative abundance in the waters of Golden Trout Wilderness, and special restrictions apply to anglers. 

Before visiting, familiarize yourselves with wilderness permit requirements as well as regulations and appropriate Leave No Trace practices.

More information about Golden Trout Wilderness and its designating legislation can be found at .

More information about the North and South Forks of the Kern Wild and Scenic River and its Outstandingly Remarkable Values can be found at rivers.gov

Maps and guidebooks can be purchased at sierraforevor.org.