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Introduction

The United States Congress designated the Hauser Wilderness (map) in 1984 and it now has a total of 7,547 acres. All of this wilderness is located in California and is managed by the Forest Service. The Hauser Wilderness is bordered by the Pine Creek Wilderness to the north.

Description

California's southernmost Wilderness on USFS land consists of mountainous terrain with steep slopes dotted by granite boulders and rocky outcroppings. Chaparral and coastal sage rule the vegetation scene, yielding only to upstart woodlands in Salazar and Boneyard Canyons, two north-south slices. Elevations range from 1,600 feet near Barrett Lake (outside the southwest corner) to 3,681 feet on a summit southwest of Bronco Flats in the northeast. Wildlife includes mule deer, owls, golden eagles, San Diego coast horned lizards, and mountain lions, not to mention more than 135 species of birds. Rattlesnakes are often seen basking in the sun, and mosquitoes, ticks, and deerflies are annoyances in the warmer months. You should not expect to find water in the interior except during periods of seasonal runoff.

The Pacific Crest Trail cuts for one mile across the extreme southeast corner of the Wilderness, and the Hauser Creek Trail follows Hauser Canyon for four miles just outside of the southern boundary. No other trails exist. Groups are limited to 15 people. Campfires are not permitted. Non-conforming uses (e.g. drug trafficking, nonsystem trails, litter and undocumented immigration) affect the agency's ability to protect and manage the wilderness character of this area. Please call the District Office (619-445-6235) for current conditions and remote camping information.

In July 2006, the Horse Fire consumed the chaparral in the western 2/3 of Hauser Wilderness. During rain events visitors should use extreme caution for flash flood and mud slides.

Planning to Visit the Hauser Wilderness?

• Print a fact sheet
• General things to consider when visiting any wilderness
• Regulations, Permits
• Contact the Forest Service

Leave No Trace

How to follow the seven standard Leave No Trace principles differs in different parts of the country (desert vs. Rocky Mountains). Click on any of the principles listed below to learn more about how they apply in the Hauser Wilderness.

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
4. Leave What You Find
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
6. Respect Wildlife
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

For more information on Leave No Trace, Visit the Leave No Trace, Inc. website.