Ophir Creek Road
Remote mining history in the Ruby Mountains
Ophir Creek Road cuts through some of the most remote country in northeastern Nevada’s Ruby Mountains, following an old mining route that served gold and silver operations in the late 1800s. The trail starts near Harrison Pass and winds through high desert terrain before dropping into Ophir Creek canyon, where you’ll encounter multiple water crossings and the remnants of the Ophir Mining District, including collapsed stamp mills and rusted machinery scattered along the creek.
This is moderate 4WD territory requiring good ground clearance for the rocky creek crossings and loose shale sections. Stock high-clearance vehicles handle it fine in dry conditions, but late spring snowmelt can make the creek crossings sketchy. Best tackled May through October when water levels are manageable. No permits needed, but bring recovery gear and extra water. The payoff is genuine solitude in country most folks never see, with decent camping spots along the creek and some of Nevada’s best stargazing.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 18 mi / 29 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 7200 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Elko, Nevada |
| Land manager | Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock 4WD truck handle Ophir Creek Road?
Yes, any stock 4WD vehicle with decent ground clearance can make it through. The trail is moderate difficulty with some rocky sections but nothing requiring major modifications.
Is the trail passable in winter or spring?
No, avoid winter through early spring due to snow at higher elevations. Best access is May through October when snow has cleared from the 7200-foot sections.
Do I need permits to drive Ophir Creek Road?
No permits required since it's on National Forest land. Standard forest service rules apply for camping and fire restrictions.
How difficult are the creek crossings?
The water crossings are generally shallow and manageable in normal conditions. Check water levels after heavy rain or snowmelt as they can become more challenging.
Can I camp along the trail and is there cell service?
Dispersed camping is allowed throughout the area with plenty of spots near old mining claims. Cell service is nonexistent, so download maps offline before heading out.