Explore mountains, desert, glacial area, hanging valley, camping, and a 1,500-foot cliff of metamorphic rock.
The 2-hour Lamoille Canyon Scenic Byway leads into the Ruby Mountains on Forest Road 660. This great drive is Mother Nature’s panorama at its best with mountains and desert. The 34-mile drive through the Humboldt National Forest is closed in the winter. Trace Route 227 east of Elko to the start of the byway. As soon as you are into the national forest, you’ll dead-end in Lamoille Canyon. To the right, you will see the 11,387-foot Ruby Dome. Just a short drive ahead is the Powerhouse Picnic Area.
The next break is the Glacier Overlook, where you can learn about the glaciers that carved through the place. Camping is a short 2-miles away at the Thomas Canyon Campground. A 1-1/2 mile Changing Canyon Nature Trail starts at the Hanging Valley turn-off. On your way to Road’s End trailhead, make sure to stop by the Terraces Picnic Area to see a 1,500-foot cliff of metamorphic rock. The Ruby Crest National Recreation Trail that heads into the Ruby Mountains Wilderness starts here. The tour ends at Lamoille and Island Lakes. To go back, retrace the path.
Starting Point:
Elko, NV
Distance of Drive:
34 miles
Must Eat:
La Fiesta
780 Commercial Street, Elko, NV 89801
Phone: 775-738-1622
Call ahead to confirm hours of operation.
Good Stop For: Mexican
Best Time of Year for Drive:
Spring to Fall (Humboldt National Forest is closed in the winter)
Points of Interest on Drive:
Thomas Canyon
Glacier Overlook
Tagged with: best time:spring and fall • canyons • glaciers • Nevada
Filed under: Best Road Trips