Owens Peak Wilderness Guide
The Owens Peak Wilderness offers an unparalleled experience for adventurous outdoor enthusiasts, featuring some of the most rugged terrain in Southern California.
Dominated by Owens Peak, the highest point of the southern Sierra Nevada at over 8,400 feet, this wilderness area provides breathtaking views, diverse ecosystems, and rich wildlife.
With its remote setting and natural beauty, the Owens Peak Wilderness is a must-visit for those seeking a true wilderness experience, offering opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and solitude.
Destination Details
| Season | April to October (best in spring and fall to avoid summer heat) |
| Location | Eastern face of the Sierra Nevada, near Inyo National Forest |
| General GPS Coordinates | 35.763116, -117.957947 |
| Management | U.S. Forest Service |
| Size | Approximately 43,000 acres |
| Nearest Major City | Ridgecrest, CA (about 30 miles to the west) |
Getting to Owens Peak Wilderness
Access this wilderness from the south via Canebrake Road, off State Highway 178; from the east via U.S. Highway 395 north of Inyokern and along four-wheel drive- recommended routes into Indian Wells Canyon, Short Canyon, Sand Canyon, and No Name Canyon; and from the north via U.S. Highway 395 north Inyokern along Ninemile Canyon Road.
Destination Overview
Located at the intersection of the Sierra Nevada, Great Basin, and Mojave Desert ecoregions, the terrain here varies from creosote scrub on the lower slopes to juniper and piñon woodlands in the higher elevations.
The area is crisscrossed by deep canyons, many containing springs that nourish lush riparian habitats. As a designated wilderness, this area offers solitude and rugged challenges, making it ideal for experienced hikers, backpackers, and those looking to explore the historic Pacific Crest Trail that crosses through the area.
Owens Peak Wilderness is a diverse and ecologically rich area, with terrain that varies greatly depending on elevation.
The lower slopes are characterized by creosote bush scrub, while higher elevations feature juniper and piñon woodlands, interspersed with sagebrush and piñon pines. The region’s canyons are rich with riparian vegetation, sustained by springs that feed into the surrounding valleys.
As one of the highest peaks in the southern Sierra Nevada, Owens Peak offers expansive vistas of the Mojave Desert and Great Basin. The wilderness is home to a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, golden eagles, and prairie falcons. For those interested in human history, there are signs of prehistoric occupation throughout the area.
The Pacific Crest Trail passes through the western edge of the wilderness, offering a challenging hiking experience with views of Owens Peak and the surrounding terrain. Other trails diverge from the PCT to explore deeper into the wilderness.
For those looking to hike or camp, the wilderness offers a remote setting far removed from the hustle of everyday life, ideal for those seeking solitude and an unspoiled wilderness experience.
Things to Do
Hiking
The Pacific Crest Trail crosses through the western side of the Owens Peak Wilderness, providing a primary route for hikers. For those looking for a more secluded experience, several offshoot trails veer from the PCT and explore the deep canyons and rugged terrain of Owens Peak. The highest point of the wilderness, Owens Peak itself, is a challenging hike, but the effort is rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Wildlife Viewing
The wilderness is home to a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, golden eagles, and prairie falcons. The riparian habitats along the springs attract a variety of bird species, making this a great spot for wildlife watchers.
Camping
Camping is available in and around the Owens Peak Wilderness, though it is recommended to camp at the designated backcountry sites or near trailheads, as this area is remote and rugged. There are no developed campgrounds within the wilderness itself, so campers will need to be self-sufficient.
History and Exploration
The Owens Peak Wilderness holds evidence of prehistoric occupation, making it an interesting destination for history enthusiasts. The area’s diverse terrain and ecosystems have attracted human settlers for thousands of years.
Safety Tips
Due to the rugged terrain and remote location, visitors to the Owens Peak Wilderness should be prepared for self-sufficient, off-trail hiking.
It is essential to carry plenty of water, map out your routes, and make sure you are familiar with backcountry navigation. Cell service is limited, so it’s advisable to leave a trip plan with someone before venturing into the wilderness.
