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California Rivers

Tule River & the Moses Wildlands

HOW TO GET THERE | VISITOR INFORMATION

If you want to experience some great Autumn color while hiking along a beautiful river in the Southern Sierra, look no further than the North Fork of the Middle Fork Tule River (sometimes called the Wishon Fork). Arising from the high granite slopes of Moses and Maggie mountains in the Golden Trout Wilderness, this segment of the Tule flows south and then west through a portion of the former Sequoia National Forest - now the newly designated Sequoia National Monument.

As you travel east from the San Joaquin Valley city of Porterville, the almost desert-like façade of the valley foothills soon gives way to lush oak woodlands and conifer forests. Hidden away in Tule River's deeply incised terrain, are large groves of ancient Sequoias. The oaks, maples, and other deciduous tree species provide a delightful Autumnal contrast to the dark green of the redwoods and other conifers. The heavily wooded canyon slopes reaching all the way up to the 10,000 foot peaks offer a scenic backdrop to river's large rounded granite boulders, tumbling cascades, and crystal clear pools.

The Doyle Trail (called the Wishon Trail by some) along the North Fork of the Middle Fork Tule River is suitable for short day hikes and extended overnight trips. The moderately easy trail begins at road's end. You quickly leave all signs of development behind as you tramp through the Hobbit-like woods, catching occasional glimpses of the cascading river below. Offshoots from the main trail provide access to numerous small waterfalls and swimming holes for the day hiker and angler. The ambitious backpacker can follow the main river-side trail north to the adjacent Sequoia National Park, meet with the Summit National Recreation Trail in the Golden Trout Wilderness, and then choose between two connector trails to loop back to the Doyle trail head. This 25 mile loop is challenging because of its extensive elevation gain and loss, but it provides outstanding views.

The North Fork Middle Fork of the Tule River has been determined eligible for National Wild & Scenic River status by the Forest Service in recognition of its outstanding ecological values, including its extensive Sequoia groves. The river also flows through the Moses roadless area, which has been threatened in the past by logging and road building, but is now protected as part of the Sequoia National Monument established by President Clinton.

How To Get There
From Highway 99 south of Tulare, take Highway 190 east to Porterville. Continue east on Hwy 190 to the town of Springville (about 18 miles from Porterville). Continue east 7.5 miles, then turn left on to Wishon Drive (a.k.a. - Forest Road 208). Follow this narrow, winding road approximately 4 miles, past the Camp Wishon Campground to the trailhead parking area just before the road ends at the Doyle Summer Home Tract gate. Park in the parking area, hike up the road, and take the trail to the left marked "To Upstream Fishing" around the cabins (be sure to respect private property by staying on the trail) and into the wild river canyon beyond.

Recreation And Visitor Information
Maps and the latest trail and recreation information are available from the Tule River Ranger District of the Forest Service, 23588 Hwy 190, Springville, CA 93265, (559) 539-2607.