Beck Meadows / Deer Island Road

Sitting at approximately 7,900 feet above sea level near the northern side of Monache Meadows, 20S05 is a popular and exceptionally scenic trail often considered the poster child for the area. Known for its crossing of the South Fork Kern River, it is one of the two most photographed trails in the region. Beyond its picturesque setting, 20S05 is the longest trail traversing the meadows, offering stunning views and excellent opportunities for photography. The trail's length also provides a great vantage point for observing wildlife as they roam the vast meadows. Near the southern end, the trail reaches a permit-required wildlife area that quickly dead-ends at the river, with an option to hike an additional 500 feet for another encounter with the beautiful Kern River. Although easy and accessible for most off-road vehicles, caution is advised when crossing the river, as conditions can change rapidly, potentially altering the trail's difficulty. Despite its length, the trail does not offer ideal camping spots, so it is recommended to camp at 20S03 near the meadow entrance for convenient access.

Please note: This is the Golden Trout Wilderness Area, one of the few areas where golden trout naturally live. Because of this, there are special fishing rules. Please research the rules and regulations before fishing in the area. More information can be found at the "Fish and Game Website."