All water in the Wilderness must be boiled for five minutes or filtered before drinking. Chemical purification may not kill harmful organisms. There are 77 miles of trails well suited for hikers and horseback riders. Trail elevations range from 7,000 to 9,000 feet. The South Warner Wilderness may be entered from eight trailhead locations, making much of the area accessible by a series of one-day excursions.
Many possibilities exist for loop hikes or rides.
One scenic trip begins on the Summit Trail at Pepperdine, head south, then return by Squaw Peak Trail. This is a moderate, one-day hike that covers about 10 miles of trail viewing crystal blue lakes, verdant meadows and alpine splendor. Ice fishing is popular at Clear Lake with the best access through Mill Creek Campground. Snow shoeing and Nordic skiing are also available. The Rocky Mountain mule deer is the primary large animal seen in the Wilderness, although an occasional mountain lion has been observed.