HORSEBACK RIDING ADVENTURESTake a trip back in time as you travel as our ancestors did, riding their horses through the diverse terrain of the Great Basin.
Ruby Crest National Recreation Trail
This rugged 39 miles is dotted with alpine lakes and glaciated canyons. True adventure pack trips can be planned to last a few hours or up to four days through this majestic part of the Ruby Mountains. Elevations rises to over 10,500 feet.
Distance from Elko: 42 miles ( 67.2 km) #1 on map
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced
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.
Overland Lake
Gorgeous alpine lake at the end of this challenging trail. Top elevation of over 10,000 feet requires at least three hours ride each way (14 miles – 22.5 km round trip)
Distance from Elko: 60 miles (96.6 km) #2 on map
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Services: Limited services available in Ruby Valley
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.
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.
Secret-Starr Trail
Adventurous mountain riding through prime ranching country. Numerous mountain springs and dense aspen groves make this trail a rejuvenating and scenic day trip for any rider.
Distance from Elko: 40 miles (64.4 km) #3 on map
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Services: None available.
Directions: Drive east in Interstate 80 to the Halleck exit (State Route 229). Drive south approximately 20 miles (32.2 km) to the Secret Pass Trailhead.
South Fork State Recreation Area
A 1,650 acre reservoir created by damming the Southfork of the Humboldt River, this area offers plenty of scenic rides along the reservoir and South Fork Canyon. Ideal for a beginning rider
Distance from Elko: 16 miles ( 25.8 km) #4 on map
Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Services: Limited services available in Spring Creek (5 miles)
Directions: Drive southeast on State Route 227 towards Spring Creek (6 miles - 10 km). Turn south on State Route 228. Drive approximately 5 miles until the South Fork turnoff ot the west.
Soldier Basin
Trail leads you to several pristine alpine lakes – Robinson, Hidden and Soldier. All provide unforgettable mountain fishing. Elevation rises 2,000 feet over length of trial with unspoiled views of the Rubies from the rim of Soldier Basin
Distance from Elko: 32 miles ( 51.5 km) #5 on map
Skill Level: Intermediate
Services: Limited services available in Lamoille (10 miles)
Mary’s River Basin Trail
Challenging trail leads you through high desert wilderness. Carve a few hours or a few days of adventure through this rugged land. An abundance of wildlife and unique scenery available for viewing.
Distance from Elko: 100 miles (161 km) #6 on map
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Services: Limited services available in Jarbidge
Directions: Drive east on Interstate 80 to the Deeth/Starr Valley exit. Turn north and follow dirt road to Mary's River Basin Trailhead market.
