Hiking

Black Rock-High Rock Emigrant Trails National Conservation Area - While there are no constructed hiking trails in the NCA or in the ten wilderness areas, there are ample opportunities for cross country wilderness hiking and hiking along primitive two-track roads in the backcountry. Many canyons throughout the NCA and wilderness areas provide perennial water sources and there are springs dotting the mountains, which allow for day hiking and long distance overnight hiking (purify water before drinking).

If you are used to hiking on constructed trails, be sure to budget extra time to hike similar distances cross country. Also be sure to pack extra water, since springs and water sources are not always reliable.

The Desert Trail - The Desert Trail is a Canada to Mexico orienteering route and uses trailheads and checkpoints references along an 80-mile route through Black Rock-High Rock Country.  The route meanders across the playa, into the mountains, and through the canyons of the NCA and wilderness.  Maps have been developed for the High Rock Canyon portion of this trail. A comprehensive guidebook is available for the two segments crossing the northern portion of the NCA (High Rock Canyon & Box Canyon/Pahute Peak). Link to: http://www.thedeserttrail.org

High Rock Canyon Complex - The High Rock Canyon Complex offers some of the best opportunities for intermediate hiking and backpacking.  Several well watered canyons provide scenic campsites and excellent wildlife viewing and hunting opportunities.  Hike through High Rock Canyon, East Fork High Rock Canyon (Pole Canyon) or Mahogany Canyon to explore historic homesteads, view the wild populations of California bighorn sheep, or follow wild horse trails to the canyon rims to view the expansive plateaus and large herds of pronghorn antelope. Upper High Rock Canyon is a short hike from Stevens Camp, which is located at the North end of High Rock Canyon, along the upper portion of High Rock Creek to a grassy wet meadow.  What was once a perilous segment for the emigrant wagon trains is now a delightful hike through an aspen lined creek.

Note: the road through High Rock Canyon is closed seasonally from February 1st until the second weekend in May.

Click here for:  High Rock Interpretive Sign1     High Rock Interpretive Sign2

North Black Rock Range - The Northern slopes of the Black Rock Range offer unique hiking experiences.  The shade and cool running water found in the Aspen lined canyons of the Lahontan Cutthroat Trout Wilderness Study Area provide excellent hiking opportunities, even in the hottest months. Hike up Pahute Peak, the high point in the NCA at 8594 feet elevation, for 360° views of the NCA and Wilderness.  These areas are best visited in the summer season, June through September.

The Calico Mountains - The Calico Mountains, located on the western edge of the Black Rock Desert offer outstanding opportunities for hiking.  Most of the larger canyons leading out of the Calico Mountains have perennial water and shade trees in the upper portions. Check out Donnelly Creek, Cherry Creek, Willow Creek, Petrified Canyon or Box Canyon (dry) for interesting canyon hikes.