The Highland Ridge Wilderness lies at the southern end of the Snake Range, adjacent to Great Basin National Park. This area encompasses varying terrain, from sagebrush covered foothills to steep ridges with sheer rock outcrops. The steep, upland mountains are dotted with pinyon pine and juniper trees or higher up with limber and bristlecone pine. Several riparian corridors stretch through the area, lined with aspen, chokecherry, and currant. Wildflowers bloom during spring with paintbrush and blue flax being the most numerous. Mule deer elk and pronghorn antelope are common throughout the area. The rocky ledges and steep, forested mountains provide great habitat for stalking cougars. Elevations in the area include ridges at 10,000 feet, but also rolling hills of pinyon-juniper and sagebrush woodlands at 6,000 feet.
Leave No Trace
How to follow the seven standard Leave No Trace principles differs in different parts of the country (desert vs. Rocky Mountains). Click on any of the principles listed below to learn more about how they apply in the Highland Ridge Wilderness.
The Highland Ridge Wilderness is located in southeastern White Pine County approximately 20 miles south of Baker, Nevada; immediately south of Great Basin National Park. Access to the eastern side of the Highland Ridge Wilderness from Baker, Nevada is along state highway 487 to the southeast for 12 miles to USFS road 450. (This road will lead into Utah for several miles.) Turn right onto USFS 450. Continue along this road for approximately 5.5 miles. At this point you may turn left onto BLM road 4090 which heads south along the eastern side, or continue straight to access the northeastern boundary.
Maps
Digital and paper maps are critical tools for wilderness visitors. Online maps can help you plan and prepare for your visit ahead of time. You can also carry digital maps with you on your GPS unit or other handheld GPS device. Having a paper map with you in the backcountry, as well as solid orienteering skills, however, ensures that you can still route-find in the event that your electronic device fails.
Motorized equipment and equipment used for mechanical transport is generally prohibited in all wilderness areas.
This includes the use of motor vehicles, motorboats, motorized equipment, bicycles, hang gliders, wagons, carts, portage wheels, and the landing of aircraft including helicopters.
Tax Relief and Health Care Act of 2006 - Public law 109-432 (12/20/2006) To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend expiring provisions, and for other purposes.
Recreational opportunities involve hiking, camping, hunting, horse-back riding and photography. See area management for regulations.
Contact Ely Office for current weather, road conditions and hazards.
Want to Volunteer for Wilderness?
Citizens who volunteer their time to steward our wilderness areas are an essential part of wilderness management. Contact the following groups to inquire about volunteer opportunities.