Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest
Jarbidge Wilderness is north of Elko, Nev.; no motorized vehicles are allowed, but six trails suitable for hiking and horseback riding traverse the area. The Ruby Mountains Wilderness, southeast of Elko, offers backpacking and other recreational opportunities within 90,000 acres of alpine lakes, glaciated canyons and rugged mountains. Other wilderness areas include Currant Mountain, East Humboldt, Grant Range, Mount Moriah, Quinn Canyon and Santa Rosa-Paradise Peak.
Four national hiking trails are within the forest. The Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail traverses 74 miles of forest land; the Toiyabe Crest National Recreation Trail runs 67 miles along the Toiyabe Range; the Ruby Crest National Recreation Trail travels 33 miles across the Ruby Mountains; and the Mount Charleston National Recreation Trail ascends the 11,918-foot summit of Charleston Peak. Due to unpredictable weather conditions, hiking on these trails is best attempted June through October; high elevations can receive snow during any month of the year. Always confirm conditions with the Forest Supervisor's office.
Recreational activities within the forest include backpacking and hiking on nearly 1,000 miles of trails, as well as fishing, hunting, camping and picnicking. Several mountain biking trails have been developed near Austin in central Nevada. Winter sports areas are at Lee Canyon and Mount Rose. Winter sports such as heli-skiing, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing are popular. Other areas noted for visual and recreational appeal are Lake Tahoe, the Sierra Nevada near Bridgeport, Calif., and Mount Rose.
The National Forest Adventure Pass is required in some of the campgrounds in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. For further information contact the Forest Supervisor, Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, 1200 Franklin Way, Sparks, NV 89431; phone (775) 331-6444.