What we’re about
We envision a vibrant and healthy Gold Butte landscape where the land and wildlife, cultural resources, and solitude are preserved and accessible for the enjoyment of current and future generations. Our mission is to promote the responsible enjoyment of the Gold Butte National Monument through education, stewardship, advocacy, and preservation of natural and cultural resources.
We often schedule hikes, tours, and stewardship projects. Join the group and then join us in Gold Butte!
Upcoming events (3)
See all- Hike to Balanced Rocks and Other Cool Stuff!At the kiosk, Mesquite, NV
Join Frank Golden and the Friends of Gold Butte for a hike through a spectacular little wash that passes numerous balanced rocks, eroded red rock sculptures and even a short "slot" canyon. The hike is 4.5 miles (round trip) with elevation change of about 300 feet. Most of the hike will be on gravel. It does have a few pour-overs to scramble, and some sandy spots as well as rocky spots so a hiking stick or trekking poles may be helpful. Hiking boots with ankle support are recommended. This hike is rated as moderate due to the distance. We will hike at a comfortable pace to allow for photography, observing wildlife and some discussions on geology and biology.
All of our hikes are free and open to the public. The trailhead is off of Mud Wash Road. As such, high clearance vehicles are required and 4x4 is recommended although all-wheel-drive vehicles should be able to make it. As we will be hiking in a wash with areas of limited egress and also driving on Mud Wash Road, if there is a potential for precipitation we will either cancel this event or chose a different destination.
We will meet at the "Kiosk", the junction of Gold Butte Road and Riverside Road (dirt parking lot) at 8:00am and expect to return by 3:30pm. Vehicles will need high clearance and all-wheel drive at a minimum.
For all hikes, please wear sturdy shoes, breathable clothes, and a hat. It's a good idea to dress in layers. Don't forget to bring sunscreen, water, lunch, and snacks, and don't forget your PPE and hand sanitizer. We will be practicing social distancing, so please be cognizant of your proximity to others. There are no stores or facilities in Gold Butte; be prepared to pee in the bushes. We practice Leave No Trace ethics so be prepared to carry out everything you bring in.
If you register for this hike and then aren't able to go, please remove yourself from the "going" list and let one of the organizers know. This will allow someone on the waitlist to be notified and plan to attend. We understand that things come up last minute, but if you do not notify us and just do not show up, you will be tagged as a "no-show" and that could result in your not being permitted to register for future events. It is suggested that you give 48 hours notice if you're not able to attend. We know that's not always possible, especially in the case of illness, but please be courteous and let us know!!
Gold Butte National Monument is primitive and has no services of any kind. Event participants must bring and carry their own water, food, sunscreen, basic first-aid items, any medications (e.g., EpiPen or asthma inhalers, etc.) a participant may need, and any other supplies they may want or need while participating in the event. Participants must wear appropriate footwear for the event (for example, for trash-clean-up events, sturdy, closed-toe shoes or boots would be appropriate). Participants are strongly encouraged to wear broad-brimmed hats and dress in weather-appropriate clothing when participating outdoors. Participants are reminded to be plant and animal aware at all times. Finally, if the event necessitates, participants are strongly encouraged to provide their medical information (pre-existing conditions, medications, etc.) and their Emergency Contact information (name and phone number) on a card or piece of paper in a sealed envelope with their name on the outside. The volunteer organizer will collect and hold the envelopes during the event and return them, unopened, at the conclusion of the event if they are not needed; and the assumption of risk statement found at In-person Assumption of Risk
- Friends of Gold Butte Trash PickupGold Butte Road Information Sign, Riverside, NV
We know you "Pack It In, Pack It Out" and "Leave No Trace," but others are sometimes not as courteous. Let's get together and pick up any trash we find along the roadway.
Join the Friends of Gold Butte as we pick up debris and garbage for a couple of hours and then gather for lunch, and a treat. Meet at the Junction of Gold Butte Road and Highway 170 at 9:00 am and then we will caravan to the work site. We will be working along the paved portion of GB road, so 4WD is not necessary.
Friends of Gold Butte will supply buckets, trash bags, & gloves. Be sure and dress appropriately for the weather, and wear something you don't mind getting dirty. We will be back by early afternoon.
• What to bring
Bring plenty of water and a lunch for yourself, and remember to wear sunscreen, closed toe shoes and a hat.Gold Butte National Monument is primitive and has no services of any kind. Event participants must bring and carry their own water, food, sunscreen, basic first-aid items, any medications (e.g., EpiPen or asthma inhalers, etc.) a participant may need, and any other supplies they may want or need while participating in the event. Participants must wear appropriate footwear for the event (for example, for trash-clean-up events, sturdy, closed-toe shoes or boots would be appropriate). Participants are strongly encouraged to wear broad-brimmed hats and dress in weather-appropriate clothing when participating outdoors. Participants are reminded to be plant and animal aware at all times. Finally, if the event necessitates, participants are strongly encouraged to provide their medical information (pre-existing conditions, medications, etc.) and their Emergency Contact information (name and phone number) on a card or piece of paper in a sealed envelope with their name on the outside. The volunteer organizer will collect and hold the envelopes during the event and return them, unopened, at the conclusion of the event if they are not needed; and the assumption of risk statement found at In-person Assumption of Risk
