The Foothills Visitor Center is one mile east of the Ash Mountain Entrance on Generals Highway. Stop by for information, maps, books, gifts, water, and restrooms. Explore exhibits on foothills ecology and human history. Open year-round, except during weather, emergency, or operational closures. Operating hours vary seasonally. During the wilderness permit non-quota season, self-issue wilderness permits are available outside the Wilderness Office building behind the visitor center.