1. Wilderness Visitor Permit: Day use and overnight permits for the Cucamonga, San Gorgonio and San Jacinto wilderness areas are required. See the forest order.

Overnight visitors who obtain a permit and pre-arrange a campsite will improve their experience by ensuring the greatest amount of solitude, and they will gather valuable information on trails, water availability, area closures, fire conditions and responsible recreation (i.e. Leave No Trace principles).

Wilderness Permits provide a record of the number of visitors on various trails. This record can also be used in search-and-rescue operations for lost or injured hikers.

It is highly recommended that you leave your itinerary with a friend or family member when visiting any wilderness area.

Signs leading to wilderness areas may have outdated information about permit requirements, which the Forest Service is actively working to correct.

Permits can be reserved up to 3 months in advance. Help us in these efforts by picking up a free permit at the self service kiosk outside of the Forest Service Ranger Station in Idyllwild or request a permit in advance (allow 1 week notice).  USFS permits are issued for groups up to 12 people; 8 stock per permit. 

For more information, read "Why do I need a Wilderness Visitor Permit?"

NOTE: In order to prevent excessive impact on wildlife and wilderness resources, Devil's Slide Trail has a limit on the number of people admitted to the Wilderness on the peak summer weekends from the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.

2. Adventure Pass: If you will be parking at Humber Park, Lake Hemet, Lake Fulmor or Fuller Mill Creek, you will need to pick up an Adventure Pass for your vehicle. You can either buy a day pass at the Forest Service Ranger Station in downtown Idyllwild for $5, or a year pass for $30 with a second car included for only an additional $5. 

Need an overnight Permit?

Please use the Wilderness Visitor’s Permit Application and fax it to 951-659-2107.

Regulations:

View Wilderness Camping Regulations and Information

View Current Fire Restrictions

Fire and other restrictions change on a seasonal and in some cases, a daily basis. Forest visitors are encouraged to “Know Before You Go” and call ahead to the local Ranger Station to check on location conditions and restrictions. 

Lightweight stoves are recommended. California Campfire Permit is required for stoves and lanterns. (available on-line click here)

Campfires are not allowed in the Wilderness Areas.

Questions? Call the Idyllwild Forest Service Ranger Station at (909) 382-2921.

tRAILS

Use these maps and information to help inform yourself about your trip. The Ernie Maxwell Scenic Trail and all wilderness trails, including the Pacific Crest Trail, are open to hikers and equestrians only - no bicycles or wheeled conveyances allowed.

Wilderness Map & Camping Zones

San Jacinto Mountain Trails (topographic)

Trails and Trailheads Map

Pacific Crest Trail  

Mountain Biking Information

Forest Conditions

San Bernardino National Forest Trail and Recreation Area Conditions

Idyllwild Weather  

Caltrans Road Conditions

San Bernardino National Forest Alerts & Notices

The trail conditions listed here are not comprehensive. if you have a question concerning current conditions please contact the Idyllwild Forest Service office at (909) 382-2921.