Sierra Nevada Rivers Permits
California's steep granite whitewater, on the Wild and Scenic Tuolumne and Kern.
All Permits
Select a permit to learn more and set up alerts
Tuolumne River
18 miles of Class IV+ granite whitewater below Yosemite on the Main Tuolumne, plus the Class V+ Cherry Creek run above it.
Forks of the Kern
17 miles of Class V on the Wild and Recreational Kern, starting in the Golden Trout Wilderness with a two-mile carry to the water.
Other Wild & Scenic Rivers Areas
Explore more wilderness permits in the region
Sierra Rivers Permit FAQ
What permits are required for Sierra Nevada Rivers?
Sierra Nevada Rivers requires permits for various activities including Tuolumne, Forks of the Kern. Each permit has different requirements and booking processes.
How do I get a permit for Sierra Nevada Rivers?
Permits for Sierra Nevada Rivers are available through First-Come, First-Served, Reservation systems. Use PermitSnag to track availability and get notified when cancellations occur.
When should I apply for Sierra Nevada Rivers permits?
Timing varies by permit type. Lottery permits typically open months in advance, while reservation permits release on a rolling basis. Set up alerts with PermitSnag to never miss an opening.
Permit Directory
Browse Backcountry Permits
Find permits for day hikes, overnight backpacking, thru-hikes, canyoneering, and river trips across federal and state lands.
National Park Permits
Day-use, overnight, and wilderness permits at America's crown jewels
California Wilderness Permits
Sierra Nevada, Lost Coast, and backcountry access
Utah & BLM Permits
Red rock canyons, slot canyon permits, and desert wilderness
National Forest & Wilderness Permits
USFS wilderness areas with quota systems
Thru-Hikes & Long Trails
Multi-day point-to-point traverses and epic long-distance trails
River Permits
Multi-day rafting and river access permits
California State Park Permits
Backcountry camping and trail permits
Mountaineering & Summit Permits
High-altitude summit permits and technical climbing routes



