Kingston Canyon Mining Road
Brutal tungsten mine climb to alpine lakes
This brutal 14-mile climb follows the old tungsten mining road up Kingston Canyon in the Toiyabe Range, gaining 3,400 feet to reach the abandoned Belmont Mine complex at 9,200 feet elevation. Built during WWII to supply strategic tungsten ore, the road deteriorates into loose shale switchbacks above timberline, with a notorious rock garden at mile 11 that’s claimed more than a few oil pans. The payoff: Kingston Lake sits in a perfect cirque surrounded by 10,000-foot peaks.
Difficult trail demanding experienced drivers and capable rigs — articulation, skid plates, and low-range mandatory. Summer-only access due to snow, typically July through September. No permits but bring recovery gear and extra fuel. Zero cell service once you leave the highway. Dispersed camping at the lake for those who make it. What you get: genuine high-alpine Nevada that most never see, pristine fishing, and bragging rights for conquering one of the state’s toughest mining roads. This isn’t for weekend warriors.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Rock |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Historic, Remote |
| Length (miles) | 14 mi / 22.5 km |
| Duration | Full day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 9200 ft |
| Best season | July-September |
| Minimum vehicle | Built 4WD with skid plates |
| Nearest town | Austin, Nevada |
| Land manager | Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | fs.usda.gov |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Tacoma or 4Runner run Kingston Canyon Mining Road?
No. This trail demands a built 4WD with skid plates minimum — sharp exposed rock will tear up unprotected undercarriages. A lift, aggressive all-terrain or mud-terrain tires, and lockers are strongly advised for the upper sections near the mine.
When does Kingston Canyon Mining Road open and close each year?
July through September is the reliable window. Snow can block the upper elevations well into June, and early fall storms can shut it down fast above 9,000 feet. Check with Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest before heading out in shoulder months.
Do I need a permit to run this trail or camp in the area?
No permit required. The trail runs through Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest and dispersed camping is allowed under standard Forest Service rules — 14-day stay limit, 300 feet from water sources, leave no trace. No fee stations out here.
What's the hardest section and what makes it brutal?
The upper climb to the tungsten mine is where it gets serious — sustained steep rock ledges, loose shale, and narrow shelf road with significant exposure. There's no room for error on some switchbacks, and a wrong line can put you on your rocker panels fast.
Is there water available on trail, and how far is the nearest gas from the trailhead?
There are water crossings on trail but treat anything you collect — no potable water sources out here. Austin, Nevada is your last gas stop and it's a small town, so fill up completely before you leave; the nearest backup option adds serious mileage to a bad day.
Trail track
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