Summary
The wilderness area is known for its towering peaks, high alpine lakes, and scenic vistas. One of the main reasons to visit High Schells Wilderness is for the hiking opportunities, as there are miles of trails to explore, ranging from easy to challenging.
There are several points of interest to see in High Schells Wilderness, including the Ruby Crest National Recreation Trail, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visitors can also see the Lehman Caves, a series of underground caverns that are home to unique rock formations and a variety of wildlife.
Interesting facts about High Schells Wilderness include its designation as a protected wilderness area in 1989, which ensures that the land remains untouched and preserved for future generations. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and elk.
The best time of year to visit High Schells Wilderness is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and the trails are accessible. However, visitors should be prepared for sudden changes in weather and should bring appropriate gear for hiking in the mountains.
Overall, High Schells Wilderness is a beautiful and remote destination for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to explore the natural beauty of Nevada.
Weather Forecast
Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
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CLEVE CREEK RECREATION AREA
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Cleve Creek Campground
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Cleve Creek
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Cave Lake State Park
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ELY ELK VIEWING AREA - RECREATION SITE
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