This is perhaps Nevada's easiest 11,000 foot peak. It's a relatively easy hike from the start, and offers great, top of the world, views of the Ruby Mountains. A fair number, perhaps a hundred hikers a year, seem to be signed in the register. It is a fine trail to Liberty Pass (10,450'), then a relatively short, cross-country, scramble on slabs, talus, and dirt, to the final class 2, 10' rock dip, in the ridge, to the highpoint.

Getting There

From Elko, Nevada, on Interstate 80, some 286 miles east from Reno, Nevada, follow the signs to the Ruby Mountains recreation area. The fine road is signed Lamoille Highway, and goes about 10 miles to a signed side road into Lamoille Canyon. Proceed right (south) up this well paved, scenic road to Roads End at 8,800 feet elevation.

Either take the Ruby Crest Scenic Trail, or the Liberty Pass Trail (stock trail, signed 1.5 miles) to Liberty Pass (10,450'), which is signed. Head cross-country right, roughly west, along or up the main ridge, with turrets of the peak visible from below. A choice of routes may be used. Gain the ridge, avoiding two false summits, and scramble the final, short rocky sections, over a 10' rock gap (class 2), to the highpoint.

Red Tape

No permits for day use, no fees. There is a restroom and space for about 40 cars at the developed trailhead.

Note: As of September 28, 2006, construction is ongoing with the restroom facility, so no convenient opportunity then exists. Campgrounds further down the highway may have outhouses. Please contact the Forest Service for more information.

When To Climb

Summer seems to be the best time. Approaches up Lamoille Canyon may be hazardous, in winter, due to avalanches. The temperatures get very low in mid-winter, and winter campers should have expedition gear.

Camping

There are several lakes along the Ruby Crest Trail to camp. The lakes southward over Liberty Pass seem to be popular. No huts, no fees.

There are limited sites along the scenic Lamoille Canyon road to car camp.

Mountain Conditions

Please visit the PETE'S THOUSAND PEAKS website to view accounts and photos of my July 27, 2004, ascent. The peak is within the Ruby Mountains Wilderness. Try contacting the Forest Service office in Elko, Nevada, for conditions. You might try the Northeastern Nevada Museum in Elko, too, for some history, weather, and snow conditions. In late September to mid-October, the area slopes, covered with aspen groves, make a fine, fall color, photo op. The Toiyabe-Humboldt National Forest website sometimes has recent, fall color photos posted.

Images