Washoe Lake Mining District Road
Comstock silver country technical mining traverse
This mining district road climbs from Washoe Valley into the Virginia Range, following old wagon routes that connected Carson City to the silver boomtowns of Virginia City and Gold Hill during the 1860s Comstock rush. The route threads between abandoned mine shafts and mill sites, crossing Jumbo Grade and Devils Gate before dropping into Six Mile Canyon, where you’ll navigate loose shale switchbacks and encounter remnants of the Virginia & Truckee Railroad grade. Technical sections include rocky ledges above Washoe Lake and steep descents through mining claim boundaries still marked by rusted stakes.
This is solid intermediate 4WD territory requiring high clearance and low range for the steeper climbs—loose rock and off-camber sections demand respect. Summer heat can be brutal, making fall through spring the smart play. No permits needed on this BLM land, and dispersed camping is allowed. Pack extra water and recovery gear since cell service is nonexistent. What you get is direct connection to Nevada’s silver rush history, stunning views over Washoe Valley, and access to some of the state’s most significant mining heritage without the crowds.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Rock |
| Features | High Altitude, Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 18 mi / 29 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 6400 ft |
| Best season | September-May |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Carson City, Nevada |
| Land manager | Bureau of Land Management |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock 4Runner or Wrangler run this without modifications?
Yes, a stock high-clearance 4WD like a 4Runner or Wrangler can complete this trail. The rocky surface demands good all-terrain tires and a driver comfortable with slow, deliberate rock crawling — bald highway tires or a 2WD crossover will get you stuck.
Is this trail passable in summer?
Summer is actually the worst time to run this trail. Best season is September through May — summer heat in Nevada's Virginia Range is brutal and can push midday temps well past 100°F with zero shade on the ridge routes.
Do I need a permit to run this trail or camp here?
No permit required. It's BLM land, so dispersed camping is allowed under standard BLM rules — 14-day stay limit, pack out everything, no campfires during fire restrictions. No fees.
What's the hardest section and what should I actually expect?
The technical ridge sections are the crux — exposed rocky shelves with loose surface rock and limited room to maneuver. Expect slow going (think walking pace), potential for undercarriage contact if you're not reading the line, and no bailout options once you're committed to the ridge.
How far is the nearest gas from the trailhead and is there any water on route?
Carson City is your last reliable gas stop before the trail — fill up there. There is no potable water on the 18-mile route through the mining district, so carry all you need for the full 1-2 days.
Trail track
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