September Hikes
Submitted by Friends of the Ruby Mountains
September is a perfect time to enjoy a few end of summer hikes in Elko County with family and friends. Lamoille Canyon has many trails to enjoy. Here are four of our favorites.
Lamoille-Talbot Trail – This trail is approximately 11 miles long (one way) and the trailhead is located just past Powerhouse Picnic Area. There is a paved pullout on the right-hand side of the road. The trail is moderately challenging given the sustained uphill climb. It winds through stands of pinyon pine, mountain mahogany, and aspen and you have great views of Lamoille and Spring Creek as well as the mountain ranges north of the Ruby Mountains. The first 4 miles are well maintained and many hikers turn around at mile four or five. Past mile four, the trail is passable but less developed. It continues to Talbot Creek and ties in with the Verdi Lake Trail.
Thomas Canyon Trail – Access for this trail is located within the Thomas Canyon Campground and there is a parking area right by the campground bulletin boards. The trail starts by site 33 in C Loop. This trail is moderately challenging given the elevation gain and uphill climb. Total length of the trail is approximately 2 miles in length (one way). The trail runs along Thomas Creek and you have great views of numerous waterfalls, beaver ponds, and cascades. You hike through aspen and pines until you reach an alpine meadow surrounded by rugged canyon walls.
Right Fork Trail- Access to this trail is located on the road to Camp Lamoille and there is parking before the camp’s gate. The first mile is on the camp road and you pass through the camp. The actual trail starts just past the camp A-frames. Initially there are two trails located on opposite sides of the creek, and the trails merge about ¼ mile up the trail on the south side of the Right Fork. This trail is approximately 4 and 1/5 miles long (one way)and is moderately challenging due to the uphill climb and elevation gain. You hike through aspen stands, scattered pine, and open meadows before you reach goat lake
Nature Trail – This is a short hike that is great for families with little ones. It is located approximately 8 miles up the Canyon Road. There is a paved pull-out for parking on the right-hand side of the road. The trail is about ½ mile long with a gentle grade. It makes a loop down to Lamoille Creek and beaver ponds before returning through aspen stands. Pick up a trail guide at the beginning of the trail and learn about the natural history of the canyon at the 13 stations along the trail.
Trail Tips –
Watch for hunters and wear orange during hunting season.
Plan ahead by checking with the Forest Service for trail and road conditions – 738-5171.
Be ready for changing weather and cold conditions by dressing in layers and bringing extra clothes.
Pack it in and pack it out- Be a good hiker and bring all your trash back with you.
Bring emergency supplies, extra food, and plenty of water in case you are out longer than expected.