Big Smoky Valley Railroad Grade

Follow the ghost of Nevada’s mining boom along the original Nevada Central Railroad grade that hauled silver ore from the Reese River district to Belmont’s mills. The route climbs through Monitor Pass at 7,000 feet, offering panoramic views of the Toiyabe Range while passing stone foundations, abandoned mine shafts, and the remains of Clifton station. You’ll cross Big Smoky Valley’s endless sagebrush flats before climbing into the Toquima Range toward Belmont’s remarkably preserved courthouse.

Moderate to difficult depending on conditions, with loose rock and steep grades through the mountain passes. Stock 4WD with skid plates recommended – the railroad grade includes some technical rocky sections. Best from May through October when snow clears the high passes. No fuel or water available on route, so tank up in Austin. This route delivers true Nevada isolation with incredible geological diversity and mining history most overlanders never see.