Piper Mountain Wilderness

Piper Mountain Wilderness is a protected wilderness area in Inyo County featuring steep mountains, narrow canyons, and alluvial fans spread across three distinct sections. These sections are separated by vehicle corridors that mark the boundaries of the protected land.

This wilderness area was designated in 1994 through the California Desert Protection Act and is managed by the Department of Interior and Bureau of Land Management. The designation was part of a broader effort to protect desert regions throughout California.

Deep Springs College students frequently explore the terrain, making them the primary visitors to this remote section of the White Mountains.

Bring enough water and navigation tools since the terrain is remote and dry with no permits required for entry. Plan your route carefully as cell service is limited and trails can be difficult to follow.

One of the northernmost groves of Joshua trees grows at the base of the Inyo Mountains within this wilderness. This remote northern population of these desert plants is rarely found this far north.