Inyo National Forest

Inyo National Forest spans 1.9 million acres across California and Nevada, featuring mountain peaks, valleys, and extensive wilderness areas with diverse ecosystems.

Theodore Roosevelt established Inyo National Forest in 1907 to protect land for the Los Angeles Aqueduct project, making it one of the least wooded forests.

The name Inyo comes from Native American language meaning dwelling place of the great spirit, reflecting the deep connection of Paiute and Shoshone tribes.

Visitors need permits for Mount Whitney trail between May and November, with a daily quota system managed through a lottery for both day hikers and backpackers.

The Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest within Inyo contains Methuselah, a tree over 4,839 years old, among the oldest living organisms on Earth.

Location: Nevada

Location: California

Inception: May 25, 1907

Operator: United States Forest Service

Website: https://fs.usda.gov/inyo

GPS coordinates: 37.85280,-118.28600

Latest update: May 26, 2025 21:48