The Dirt: Granite Range

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The Granite Mountain Range dominates the surrounding landscape northwest of Gerlach, Nevada and bordering the Black Rock Desert. Due to the steepness of its eastern slope, ascents from the west are much more manageable. Starting in dry desert scrub, trails climb into juniper and sage-brush country where herds of deer and antelope can be found taking shelter from the heat found at lower elevations during the summer. Be wary, for some trails are much more difficult to traverse than others and a narrow width, high clearance vehicle may be necessary to reach the trails along its ridgeline. Other recreational opportunities include mountain climbing, hunting, and fishing at nearby Squaw Creek Reservoir.

Primitive camping can be found at Squaw Creek Reservoir free of charge, be sure to follow the rules as it is on private land and access can be revoked at the discretion of the owner.

Directions

From Reno to Squaw Creek Reservoir staging area/campground:

Take I-80 East for 30 miles, then take Exit 43 toward Wadsworth/Pyramid Lake.
Turn left onto I-80BUS East and continue for 5 miles. Turn left onto NV-447 N / Washeim St.
Follow NV-447 North for 75 miles.
Continue onto County Rd 447/Main St. for 17 miles. Destination is on the left.

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.