The best walks and hikes in Elko County

Hiking here is defined by dramatic, high-elevation landscapes. Expect glacially carved valleys like Lamoille Canyon in the Ruby Mountains, often called the 'Alps of Nevada,' and the remote, rugged terrain of the Jarbidge Wilderness. Trails frequently lead to pristine alpine lakes, through aspen groves, and along scenic mountain ridges.

Yes, there are several options suitable for families and beginners. The area around the California Trail Interpretive Center offers easy paths with great views. For a more alpine experience, the trails at the end of the Lamoille Canyon Scenic Byway provide access to meadows and creeks without requiring a strenuous climb.

Many trails in the national forests, including the Ruby Mountains and Jarbidge Wilderness, are generally dog-friendly, but they must be under your control at all times. Be aware of wildlife and other hikers. Always check specific regulations for wilderness areas and recreation sites before you go, and be sure to pack enough water for your pet.

The prime hiking season is from late spring to early fall, typically June through October. Summer offers access to the high-elevation trails and alpine lakes when they are free of snow. Spring is wonderful for wildflowers at lower elevations, while fall provides stunning colors, especially in the aspen groves of Lamoille Canyon.

Yes, you can find waterfalls, especially during the spring and early summer snowmelt. Lamoille Canyon is a great place to look for them, with cascades tumbling down the canyon walls. The Thomas Creek Trail — Ruby Mountains follows a creek and offers opportunities to see flowing water and small cascades.

For a strenuous but rewarding day, consider the hike to Overland Lake — Ruby Mountains. This trail involves a significant climb of over 2,800 feet (865 m) through aspen groves and meadows to reach a beautiful high-elevation lake. It's a true taste of the Ruby Mountains' backcountry.

The Jarbidge Wilderness Area is ideal for backpacking. For a true wilderness adventure, the route to Emerald Lake via Cougar Creek is a challenging 20.4-mile (32.9 km) trek. The Ruby Crest Trail is another classic multi-day option, traversing the spine of the Ruby Mountains.

The Ruby Mountains offer a wide range of difficulties. You can find moderate hikes like the popular Lamoille Lake Loop, which has about 1,000 feet of elevation gain. For those seeking a major challenge, the ascent to Ruby Dome is a very difficult hike with over 6,500 feet (1985 m) of elevation gain.

The trails in Elko County are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the spectacular alpine scenery, the abundance of wildlife, and the solitude found on many routes, particularly within the Jarbidge Wilderness and the higher elevations of the Ruby Mountains.

Yes, there are several loop trails. A great difficult option is the Castle Lake Loop — Ruby Mountains, a 10.2-mile (16.5 km) circuit that takes you to a secluded alpine lake. It's a challenging route with significant elevation gain, offering a comprehensive tour of the high country.

The Lamoille Canyon Scenic Byway provides excellent access to numerous trailheads. This paved road climbs deep into the canyon, ending at a large parking area known as Road's End Trailhead. From here, you can start several popular hikes to alpine lakes and connect to the Ruby Crest Trail.