Moho Mountain is the high point of the Excelsior Range in West Central Nevada. Other nearby peaks are only a few feet lower. Only hardened desert peak climbers will ever do this peak. A overgrown dirt road, then use trail, leads to the summit of this obscure peak. It is all class 1 hiking.

Getting There

From U.S. 95, take NV 360 south. In about 6 miles, take the good, wide, dirt road headed west to the southern base of the Excelsior Range. Signs may indicate the site of Marietta, NV, a historic area. After several miles, a rough dirt road heads right (northwest) into the range. Most will park as this rough road enters the mountains, maybe a mile or two from the main dirt road. You can drive as far as you wish. A high clearance or 4WD vehicle may be necessary to proceed further. You may wish to have a good map to navigate the dirt roads in this area. After another half mile or so, a rough, side road heads east. Take this overgrown and rough track, either by vehicle or foot. It comes to a shaded area after about 2 miles, and here another road heads south and up toward the peak. Hike or drive up the right fork headed back southwest. This descends slightly before climbing up the hill. Follow this old track to the mine at 8,000 feet elevation. Here a use trail follows the ridge south, then west, as the ridge turns. The summit is seen from the mine.

I'd estimate this hike, from the mouth of the range canyon, as being roughly 3,000 feet of gain, over 7-8 miles one-way.

Andy Zdon's book, Desert Summits, offers a good description of another way to the top.

Red Tape

There are no permits, passes, or fees. This is mostly primitive, BLM land with some private property by the maps. We saw no private property or no trespassing signs on our route.

When To Climb

This peak might be climbed during all seasons. A cold winter storm may drop some snow, which can linger for months. That may prevent driving on the dirt roads leading to the top.

Camping

Some primitive car camping can be done along the approach roads. There is no water at all. Hawthorne, NV, has plenty of food, lodging, and gas. Food and gas can be gotten at Mina, NV, also.

Mountain Conditions

The nearest big town is Hawthorne, NV. Contact the local Bureau of Land Management for conditions. Their Nevada office phone number is 775-861-6500.

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