Jarbidge Mountains Backcountry Loop

The Jarbidge Mountains loop starts from the historic mining town of Jarbidge itself, Nevada’s most remote community, and climbs into genuine alpine country where aspen groves and mountain streams feel more like Colorado than the Great Basin. This 35-mile circuit combines old mining roads with newer Forest Service tracks, passing through the ruins of Charleston and God’s Pocket camps before tackling the technical descent down Cougar Creek Canyon. The nastiest section hits just past Emerald Lake, where a rockslide created a boulder field that demands careful wheel placement and nerves of steel.

Expert-level technical skills required here, with several mandatory rock crawling sections that’ll humble cocky drivers. Stock vehicles need not apply — you’ll want at least 33-inch tires, armor, and lockers for the worst stretches. July through September offers the only reliable access window due to snow at elevation. The reward justifies the punishment: pristine wilderness camping beside mountain lakes, plus the satisfaction of completing one of Nevada’s gnarliest backcountry challenges. Pack recovery gear and patience.