Vermilion Valley Resort

03/14/2026

VVR 2026 Pre-Season Update 🏔️

We're gearing up for another season and wanted to share some key info:
⁃ Opening: We're targeting Memorial Day weekend for opening the resort and accepting hiker resupply packages.
⁃ Shuttles: Trailhead shuttles to Bear Creek and Bear Ridge will run multiple times daily. Extended service to/from Fresno is available at sierramountainshuttle.com.
⁃ Ferry/boats: Until further notice, the ferry and boat rentals will not be operating, as we rework our water operations.

More details and trip planning info at vvr.place or reach us at [email protected].

See you out there! 🌄

02/17/2026

We have the privilege of being nominated in Best of Central California! And while we do not fit neatly into any one traditional category we are excited and honored nonetheless!

From thru-hikers to families making lifelong memories, this mountain community means so much to so many. Your vote helps keep the tradition alive.

Voting begins at 12 p.m. on Monday, February 16, 2026 and ends at 5 p.m. on Friday, March 6, 2026.

You may vote once per day (per device) for Vermilion Valley Resort in the Best of Central California contest under the following categories:

* Eat & Drink
* Things to Do

Central California is a unique place. We live, shop, eat, and play in California’s beautiful Central Valley and we wouldn’t have it any other way. In celebration of our great communities, The Fresno Bee is presenting Best of Central California once again!

02/14/2026

We 🫶🏽 you!

02/12/2026

It’s that time of year where we start looking for a crew to live and work alongside us in the High Sierra!

Be a part of our team hosting thru-hikers, campers, and fishermen at our backcountry resort and resupply.

If you or anyone you know is interested drop your application in our CoolWorks page!

01/07/2026

NEW VVR BLOG POST!

Our blog is written by VVR staff about the things our community loves!

Give it a read, share it, and subscribe to follow along :)

From the dream to the trail! VVR's guide to planning for the PCT walks you through the essentials for a safe journey.

12/10/2025

Do you want to own and operate a shuttle business in the Western Sierra?

The existing hiker shuttle service will be discontinued in 2026, so we’re reaching out to the community to see if anyone is interested in taking the wheel. Historically, this service has operated a passenger van for extended trips between VVR, Florence Lake, and the Fresno area—providing a reliable transit option for thru-hikers, international travelers, and those without a vehicle.

Send us a message to inquire about the opportunity.

We hope you’re having a restful off-season. Thanks & Happy Holidays!

—VVR

09/23/2025

We are officially closed for the winter!

Resupply pick up is available until September 30th for resupplies already at VVR. We are no longer picking up from or returning missed resupplies to the post office (see resupply policy on our website). No other amenities offered. Happy trails!

09/09/2025

🚨Early Closure Update🚨: Due to the impact of the Garnet Fire (southeast of Shaver Lake), VVR will close on Wed, Sept 10th. Limited staff will be on site to assist thru-hikers, and resupply packages can be collected until Sept 30th. This was a tough call for us, but we thought it was the right move given the poor air quality, increased firefighting activity along HWY 168, and the fire’s potential for explosive growth (we haven’t forgotten the Creek Fire 😔). Thanks for your understanding, and we hope to see you next season!

09/07/2025

Current smoke from Garnet fire.

08/23/2025

We are devastated to share that our long-time friend and ferry captain Paint “Paint Your Wagon” passed away yesterday. He went doing what he loved: serving hikers on Edison Lake.

It’s impossible to overstate just how important Paint was to VVR, to the thru-hiking community, and to all the people he crossed paths with. His joyous/intense energy, welcoming spirit, and dedication to the backcountry will never be forgotten!

We are all grieving here and appreciate your understanding as we keep things operating at VVR. We’ll post a more substantial tribute to Paint in the coming days.

08/19/2025

July 29th, 2025 lake level vs current lake level August 18th, 2025.

08/13/2025

Ever wonder what it’s like to hike off trail? Here’s an inside view of a five day backpacking trip out of VVR, from our new blog!

One of the best things about Vermilion Valley Resort is just how deeply embedded it is into the backcountry. Famously, this works in favor of PCT/JMT thru-hikers, who can resupply with only a couple miles of additional walking, but it also benefits anyone planning a backpacking trip out of