Ruby Mountains Bikepacking
Details
### Bicycle Tour of the Ruby Mountains — Eastern Nevada
Join us for a bikepacking tour around the Ruby Mountains, one of Nevada's most striking and least-visited ranges. Expect dramatic alpine and desert scenery, diverse ecosystems, wildlife, historic sites, and a few isolated settlements along the way. Weather is typically excellent in September, and we should catch some fall color in the canyons.
The Route
We'll start in Elko, NV, and peddle to Lamoille town for lunch. We will then bike up the beautiful Lamoille Canyon, where we'll camp for two nights.
On day two, we'll hike to some stunning alpine lakes and viewpoints. On days three and four, we'll circle the Ruby range, crossing two passes. We should see mustangs, the Pony Express Trail, wildlife refuges (fishing is possible), desert views and more. We may peddle up a canyon for some dispersed camping or stay in established campgrounds.
We will roll back into Elko on day five.
- Distance: ~200 miles (120 paved / 80 gravel)
- Shorter option: The route can be shortened to cut off roughly half the gravel mileage if preferred
- Total ascent: ~11,000 ft
- Tires: Bring wide gravel tires. There may be some rocky and sandy sections.
- Water: There may be one or two dry sections. Bring containers to carry extra water and something to treat creek water if needed
- Hikes: Bring light hiking shoes and gear
Getting There
Elko is accessible by Amtrak and bus, and has budget-friendly hotels plus a few camping options for anyone arriving early or staying late.
Dates
Dates are flexible for now — let me know what works and we'll lock something in.
Route Maps