Jarbidge Wilderness Road
Last stagecoach robbery town in high country
Jarbidge Wilderness Road climbs 6,000 feet through Nevada’s forgotten corner to reach the ghost town of Jarbidge, site of the last stagecoach robbery in American history. This 40-mile gravel and dirt track follows the original mining road built in 1909, switchbacking up Copper Creek Canyon past abandoned prospects and through aspen groves that blaze gold each fall. The final descent into Jarbidge Canyon reveals a town that time forgot, with original false-front buildings and a saloon that still pours drinks for the few dozen souls who call this place home.
Moderate difficulty suitable for stock 4WD with good ground clearance. Rocky sections and creek crossings demand attention, especially during spring snowmelt when Jarbidge River runs high. Best season runs June through October before snow closes the high passes. No fuel or supplies for 100+ miles, and cell service remains nonexistent until you reach town. What you get is authentic Old West atmosphere and some of Nevada’s most pristine wilderness camping along the Jarbidge River.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Gravel |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Historic, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 40 mi / 64.4 km |
| Duration | Full day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 8200 ft |
| Best season | June-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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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Jeep Wrangler handle this trail?
Yes, any stock 4WD vehicle with high clearance will do fine on the graded gravel road. The main challenges are washboard sections and occasional loose rocks, not technical obstacles.
Is the road to Jarbidge open in winter?
No, heavy snow typically closes the road from November through May. Even in late spring, patches of snow and mud can make the upper elevations impassable until June.
Do I need any permits to drive to Jarbidge?
No permits required for the drive itself. If you plan to camp in dispersed areas, follow standard Forest Service rules for campfires and Leave No Trace practices.
What's the hardest part of this drive?
The final descent into Jarbidge town is the steepest and rockiest section, dropping about 1,000 feet in 3 miles with some loose gravel switchbacks.
Are there reliable water sources along the trail for camping?
Yes, the Jarbidge River runs through town and several creeks cross the road at higher elevations. Always filter or treat water from natural sources before drinking.