Best trails in Humboldt National Forest, Nevada

Somewhat strenuous hike along Ruby Crest Trail to high mountain lake (Lamoille) If you're not in shape or conditioned to the altitude, this high mountain hike will kick your butt !! I've seen locals run past me up this trail, but most of us climb very slowly and enjoy the incredible scenery. You have your choice of taking either the hiking or pack trail (stock doesn't have a choice) -- the hiking is steeper with looser rock but takes you under the trees more and along some unnamed ponds before you come to Dollar Lakes. Don't be fooled by Dollar Lakes, continue on to Lamoille Lake for the real reward. I've been there in August with snow still covering the banks of this lake. Fish practically jump onto your hook, but practicing catch n' release assures this lake has plenty of fish. The trail continues past Lamoille to Liberty Lake and the entire Ruby Crest Trail, but Lamoille Lake is a nice day hike destination. If you get too chilled by the lake, take the pack trail on your descent, the exposed trail should help you warm up in the sun.Show more

The longest trail in Ruby Mountain.Show more

One of several Lakes at the end of Lamoille Canyon Road. Easy hike crossing a few creeks, one of the best trails in that area. This a short hike and is truly a must see.Show more

This trail can be tricky, but you don't have to go cross country -- there is a foot path that leads through the sub alpine brush, under aspens, along open slopes (views into Idaho to N past Jarbidge, and E into Utah flats), and up a rocky cliff for a worthwhile morning hike to 4 acre Smith Lake, strewn with huge boulders which look like a giant threw them down from the rocky cliffs above. Very few people use this trail. From the TH, follow the Grey's Lake trail to the cattle gate (close behind you), turn L immediately past the gate and climb steeply along the fence (don't grab it, it's barbed wire); at the top of the fence climb, look for the foot path that is overgrown with shrubs and follow this through the aspens and up the slope, towards Grey's Peak. Wear long pants (thick brush), leather gloves, layer clothes.Show more

Gradual walk on old trail along stream, used by hunters (beware of season) If you don't know the Schell range, you might be surprised what a lovely, high elevation treat you have in store. This hike takes you to a spring, where the water comes up from under ground (partially hidden by ferns, reeds, water plants). The water runs above ground in the streambed, and meets the south fork, rushing to provide a wonderful classic Nevada stream full of native browns & brookies, covered by shady pines and aspens, before being diverted below the CG for ranching. This is a very small (6 sites) CG, and is highly favored by local hunters. Bow hunting season begins in mid-Aug so be sure and stay on the trails and wear highly visible clothing. If you have philosophical issues with hunting, this is NOT the trail or area for you, in season. From the end of CG, walk up the road, passing the Girl Scout camp, take the Left fork in the road, past the picnic table (nice lunch stop along stream), past the sign "Dead End Road", and follow path to springs.Show more