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South Nopah Range Wilderness

Shoshone, California · Inyo County

Overview Easily rolling alluvial slopes (bajadas) from the east and west sweep gently up to the south end of the rugged folds of the Nopah Mountain Range in the South Nopah Range Wilderness. Shaded with soft colors, the Nopah Range is composed of sedimentary rocks capped at about 4,200 feet. The California Valley exten…

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About South Nopah Range Wilderness

Overview Easily rolling alluvial slopes (bajadas) from the east and west sweep gently up to the south end of the rugged folds of the Nopah Mountain Range in the South Nopah Range Wilderness. Shaded with soft colors, the Nopah Range is composed of sedimentary rocks capped at about 4,200 feet. The California Valley extends into the eastern Wilderness. Desert bighorn sheep may be seen here, especially in the northern portion, along with wild horses and wild burros. A few prairie falcons have been spotted hunting over the low desert regions. Vegetation is sparse but the environment is known to support the ivory-spined agave plant. You should see evidence of old mining activity in the southern portion. You won't find any trails or much water to drink. Just across the Old Spanish Trail on the north end lies Nopah Range Wilderness. For more information about this wilderness, please visit Wilderness Connect. Leave No Trace How to follow the seven standard Leave No Trace principles differs in different parts of the country (desert vs. Rocky Mountains). For more information on any of the principles listed below, please visit Leave No Trace, Visit the Leave No Trace, Inc. website. Plan Ahead and Prepare Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces Dispose of Waste Properly Leave What You Find Minimize Campfire Impacts Respect Wildlife Be Considerate of Other Visitors Rules and Regulations Motorized equipment and equipment used for mechanical transport are generally prohibited on all federal lands designated as wilderness. This includes the use of motor vehicles (including OHVs), motorboats, motorized equipment, bicycles, hang gliders, wagons, carts, portage wheels, and the landing of aircraft including helicopters, unless provided for in specific legislation. In a few areas some exceptions allowing the use of motorized equipment or mechanical transport are described in the special regulations in effect for a specific area. Contact the agency for more information about regulations.

Plan Your Visit to South Nopah Range Wilderness

Heading to South Nopah Range Wilderness? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for South Nopah Range Wilderness?

No central reservation system listed for South Nopah Range Wilderness. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/13487) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I contact South Nopah Range Wilderness?

You can reach the park at phone: 760-252-6000 or email: BLM_CA_Web_BA@blm.gov.