If you are looking for a remote ride in quintessential high desert country, Campbell Creek is well worth the trek. You can find this trail tucked into the Lander County side of the Desatoya Mountains. This entire range is filled with perennial creeks, thick groves of aspens, deep cut canyons, and rugged peaks. A trail ride along Campbell Creek is a great way to see all of that.
Follow the dirt road (or one of the cow trails) along the creek for a gradual climb up the mountain. There are a few spur trails along the way, though most dead end. Eventually, the road veers away from Campbell Creek. For the ultra adventurous, it continues with an extremely steep climb up and into a vast network of trails that connect to many other creeks throughout the range. Most trail riders will be satisfied with turning around here, for an out and back ride of 10 miles.
This area is classic high desert terrain with big and healthy sage, lush meadows, craggy rock walls, and woodlands of pinyon and juniper. The elevation gain is gradual and there is nothing technical on this ride, save for several water crossings (which are quite shallow). You aren’t likely to see or hear anyone else in these parts except for the grazing cows and the trout in the creek. It’s just a lovely ride through scenic Nevada backcountry.
There is a lot of history around this part of the range. The Pony Express Trail runs to the north and is used each year in the re-ride. Highway 722 was the original alignment of Highway 50 and the historic Lincoln Highway. Today, few cars take this route, which makes it attractive for equestrians who want to get a little out there.
Please note that this is not an official trail. It is a backcountry route, so ride at your own risk. There is no cell service here, so come prepared with your maps downloaded. Campbell Creek gets and carries snow through the winter. The best time to ride here is spring and summer, when the grass is green and the flowers are blooming. Fall is also nice, up until the snow comes.
Getting Here
Where to Park: There is a large gravel turnout just off the highway, next to the creek. There is enough room for several rigs to turn around. Alternatively, you can turn into the dirt road at Campbell Creek and there is a large dirt area that can fit several rigs. You can even camp there if you wanted to.
