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The Dirt: Kuvima Valley and Lava Beds

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The Kuvima Valley lies in the center of a massive trail system, covering Western Pershing County. This network connects several OHV recreation sites as well, such as the Black Rock playa, the Granite Range, the Buffalo Hills, and the Rye Patch State Recreation Area, among others. Just Northeast of the Kuvima Valley is the Lava Bed mountain range, a collection of impressive mountains surrounded by OHV-friendly roads.

On the Northeast edge of the system is the ghost town of Sulphur. While there are only a few ruins still visible, a kiosk and markers are present to guide visitors around the site. Parking can be found on the wide dirt roads surrounding the iconic cabin still standing in the center of the area.

To the Northwest of the system lies the town of Gerlach. This is the closest town where food and fuel are sold. There is a single market 7 miles south of Gerlach along State Route 447, just outside the town of Empire. The farther South you travel on 447, the more services you will find, in places like Nixon and Fernley.

Midway between Sulphur and Gerlach are the Trego Hot Springs, a popular place to visit while in the area.

Dispersed/primitive camping is available throughout much of the area unless otherwise posted. Developed camping can be found in the Porter Springs Campground on the Southeastern edge of the system. Due East of the system is the Rye Patch State Recreation Area, which also has developed camping options.

 Some areas, particularly around springs and railways, are privately managed lands, and should be respected. While designated OHV routes may traverse private property, please obey all signage and avoid trespassing. If you encounter a closed gate on public land, but there is no signage, remember to close the gate after passing through. Active grazing is still practiced in public lands in this area. 

Caution! During wet seasons the playa, and some of the surrounding areas, can become impassable to motor vehicles. While the playa may appear dry, there may be deep mud just below the surface. It is important to note that OHV use is not allowed on the dunes and hummocks surrounding the playa. Traveling in groups is always a good idea, as well as informing someone of where you will be going due to the remote nature of the area.

Directions

There are multiple ways to access Kumiva Valley and the Lava Beds trail network:

  • Multiple staging areas and trails can be found South of the town of Gerlach.
  • At least two dirt pullouts can be found along State Route 447. See our .PDF map for exact locations and details.
  • A small dirt lot can also be found off of Seven Troughs Road. This can be reached by taking State Route 399 Northwest of Lovelock.

Rules of the Road

Land Manager: Bureau of Land Management

BLM Field Office – Black Rock
5100 East Winnemucca Blvd.
Winnemucca, NV 89445

Telephone: 775-623-1500

Motor vehicles are permitted on designated trails only. For local regulations regarding OHV use on county roads, visit the BLM OHV Website https://www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/OHV.

Always plan ahead and prepare for uncertainty. Travel with warm clothing, first aid, food, water and appropriate tools to fix a problem.
Traveling in groups is always a good idea, as well as informing someone of where you will be going.

  • Register Your Vehicle
  • Make sure your vehicle is equipped with a spark arrestor
  • Plan Ahead and Prepare
  • Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
  • Dispose of Waste Properly
  • Leave What You Find
  • Minimize Campfire Impacts
  • Respect Wildlife
  • Be Considerate of Other Trail Users

Leave No Trace

Tread Lightly

Historic Preservation


Plan Your Visit

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