6 Outdoor Adventures in Elko

The diverse landscapes around Elko, NV, make it a top destination for outdoor adventurers. When snowy weather arrives, visitors can enjoy prime skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling on mountain slopes. The warmer months are a perfect time to explore trails around lakes and take in the art displayed in the city. You can find tourist information about local events and scenic drives that showcase this region’s natural beauty from local guides. Here are six activities and places to explore during your visit:

Hiking Trails

If you want to explore the region on foot, you can walk the Ruby Crest Trail’s trek, which takes hikers across soaring ridges and pristine wilderness. This hike begins the steep climb to Liberty Lake’s secluded backcountry basins. For shorter, family-friendly nature walks, there are plenty of shorter paths that offer beautiful views. Stop by a local outfitter before your adventure to purchase supplies like hats, jackets, and backpacks. Guided hiking tours help you experience Elko’s trails and learn more about the wildlife that inhabits the area, such as deer, elk, and bighorn sheep.

Ruby Mountains Camping

The Ruby Mountains offer getaways for those seeking to camp amid pristine natural surroundings. Pitch your tent at South Ruby Campground to access the nearby discovery sites and scenic drives. For a secluded high-elevation setting, you can pack in supplies and hike to remote backcountry lake locations. Prepare for both alpine conditions and sunny summer days during your hike. It’s a good idea to bring quality tents, sleeping bags, stoves, and equipment to explore these rugged landscapes.

Winter Activities

In the winter, the Ruby Mountains transform into a snow sports enthusiast’s haven. You can bundle up and strap on skis or snowboards to ride the slopes at nearby resorts like Lamoille Canyon or Walker Lake Ski Center. If you’re looking to traverse the snowy landscape, you can rent snowmobiles, cross-country ski gear, and snowshoes in town. Check current conditions before heading out on mountain excursions. Visiting the Elko Ice Rink provides covered skating and family fun during snow days, and winter activities abound for all skill levels to enjoy.

Fishing Escapes

Elko’s glistening lakes and rushing streams offer several options for those who like to take a pole out to the water. Angel Lake is nestled high in the Ruby Mountains, drawing anglers seeking rainbow trout. There are also fishing spots to locate along the river near South Fork Reservoir. Local guides can advise you on seasonal conditions, angling techniques, and how to bait and hook Boise River whitefish or Lahontan cutthroat trout. Fishing trips offer access to beautiful natural sites that might not normally be seen by tourists.

Native American Culture

Embark on day trips to visit historical sites like the Shoshone Indian Cemetery. In town, feel free to view artifacts on display at the Northeastern Nevada Museum and learn about indigenous traditions, innovations, and their impacts on this Western settlement. You might also look at tourist information guides for details about special events that share tribal songs, dances, and stories celebrating ancestral legacies. While in Elko, you could support educational initiatives that seek to preserve these heritages for future generations.

Photography Spots

The Elko area offers unique views from several angles, with high desert plateaus, alpine meadows, and glistening lakes. Set up your camera to capture picturesque sunrises illuminating the rugged peaks of the Ruby Mountains. In the spring, head to Lamoille Canyon, where wildflowers cover the canyon floor. Rental car companies can provide vehicles to reach any remote spots you want to take pictures of. Some area tour operators also offer guided photo expeditions and may help you target the photo locations during your trip.

Seek Tourist Information on Elko Today

Elko offers outdoor recreation, rich culture, and stunning scenery for campers and explorers. Local outfitters supply gear, and the local guides service hiking trails, whitewater river rafting trips, and wildlife excursions. Area hoteliers welcome visitors with spas, on-site dining, and easy access to major highways. Tourist information sites may have a list of recommended activities and restaurants to help shape your stay. Plan your Elko getaway today to experience adventure in the West.