HIKING ADVENTURES
Walkers anywhere have less incidence of cancer, heart disease, stroke, diabetes and other killer diseases. They live longer and get mental health and spiritual benefits. But hikers in the Elko area enjoy all this plus some of the most beautiful scenery in America!
Ruby Crest National Recreation Trail (South Trailhead)
Situated along the spine of the Ruby Mountains, this well maintained trail has many hikes to choose from ranging from 39 miles (62.8) km) in length. Elevation rises 2,400 feet with abundant wildlife and spectacular alpine scenery including glacial valleys, lakes, and streams.
Distance from Elko: 42 miles (67.2 km ) #1 on map
Skill Level: All
Services: None available.
Directions: Drive southeast on State Route 228 towards Spring Creek (6 miles - 10 km). Turn south (right) at the stoplight on SR 228 and drive approximately 33 miles (53 km) to the Harrison Pass Road ( Country Road 718). Travel over Harrison Pass to the ruby Valley Toad. Turn right at the T intersection to reach the refuge and campground.
Roads End – Lamoille Canyon
Popular trailhead located at the end of the paved highway through Lamoille canyon. This unique granite canyon formed by slow moving glaciers offers a wide variety of trail hiking opportunities. Hike to several beautiful mountain lakes including Lamoille, Island, Dollar, Liberty, Favre and Castle.
Distance from Elko: 25 miles (40.3 km) #2 on map
Skill Level: all
Services: Limited services available in Lamoille (13 miles – 21.7 km)
Directions: Drive southeast on State Route 227 towards Spring Creek (6 miles - 10 km). Go straight at the stoplight (SR227) towards Lamoille (13 miles - 21 km). Turn south (right) on Forest Road 660 and follow the Lamoille Scenic Byway 12 miles (19.3 km) until the pavement end.
Winchell Lake
Well marked trail located on Angel Lake road is 4 miles (6.54 km) long, contouring the East Humboldt Mountains with a 700 feet change in elevation. Early in the season the trail is enhanced by ample displays of wildflowers in bloom.
Distance from Elko: 68 miles ( 109.5 km) #3 on map
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Services: all services available in Wells (16 miles – 26.7 km)
Directions: Drive east on Interstate 80 to Wells. Turn south on to the Angel Lake Scenic Byway (State Route 231). Winchell Lake Trailhead is well marked and approximately 16 miles south of Wells. This lake has not fish.
Soldier Basin
Trail accesses a beautiful high elevation basin with several lakes and spectacular scenery. Trout fishing is available to Soldier Lake. Robinson Lake, hidden lakes and streams along the route. This trail is accessed from two sides of the Ruby Mountains
Distance from Elko: 36 miles (58 km) #4 on map
Skill Level: Intermediate
Services: Limited services available in Lamoille (10 miles – 16.7 km)
Directions: Drive east on Interstate 80 to Halleck exit (State Route 229). Drive south approximately 10 miles to Lamoille turnoff at Country road 703. Follow to Forest Service Road 335, which will take you to the Soldier Creek Trailhead.
Overland Lake
The trail climbs from Ruby Valley 2,700 feet to Overland Lake, along a well marked trail through Aspen groves and meadows with wide open views of Ruby Valley below. There is no water along the 6.5 miles (10.5 km) route until you reach Overland Lake. Fishing and wildlife viewing is available at the lake. A historic cabin is located near the shore but please leave it as you find it.
Distance from Elko: 40 miles (66.4 km) #5 on map
Directions: Drive east on Interstate 80 to the Halleck exit. Turn south on State Route 229. Follow 229 for approximately 30 miles (48.3 km) until it becomes State Route 767. Continue south on SR 767 and Country Road 788 (Ruby Valley Road) through Ruby Valley to the Overland Lake Trailhead. Turn west at Overland Lake sign.
