Mokelumne Wilderness

The Mokelumne River bisects remote mountainous terrain where elevations range from about 4,000 feet near Salt Springs Reservoir outside the southwest corner to over 10,000 feet on Round Top Peak in the north. Shallow valleys lying north of Mokelumne Peak (9,332 feet), in the southern portion of the area, hide many small lakes. The river canyon is extremely rugged and poison oak grows in profusion along the banks. In general, though, glaciers have smoothed the area, leaving the well-placed trails relatively easy to hike. In spring and summer, several large meadows scattered throughout the wild land bloom with a riot of wildflower color. You'll find stands of timber over much of this Wilderness. No fires are allowed above 8,000 feet, including, Winnemucca, Round Top, Fourth of July, and Emigrant Lakes. The Raymond Peak area located in the eastern section, provides some spectacular scenery. By late summer, seasonal water courses are often dry.

A prolific trail system that includes 20 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail contributes to moderate to heavy human use in the Carson Pass Management Area. Most use occurs along the shores of Winnemucca, Round Top and Fourth of July Lake. The remainder of the wilderness area has far less use and provides many opportunities for experiencing solitude.