Looking for a ride that is off the beaten track? This one is a long way from anywhere. You’ll find Patterson Pass tucked into the mountains between Ely and Pioche, but easily accessible off Highway 93. This is remote country and a notable feature of this spot is that from it, you can access the Silver State OHV Trail, a 250+ mile backcountry network through Lincoln County.
Patterson Pass sits between Mt. Grafton (10,997 ft.) and Mt. Montezuma (9,121 ft.) in the Schell Creek Range. The peaks loom large over hills of dense pinyon and juniper. It’s lovely high desert terrain of sagebrush, rabbitbrush, and wildflowers in the spring. There are several springs throughout the range and grass. You’ll have big views from the mountains clear across the valley.
The Bureau of Land Management’s recreation guide indicates that this site is open to horses. And it is, but it could be better. See “Where to Park” below for information on the gap between parking and the actual trail. And, while the Silver State OHV Trail is a fabulous route for ATVs, dirtbikes, etc., there are some sections that are just not enjoyable for riding. That’s not a fair criticism though because the trail wasn’t built for horses!
Some parts of the trail from Patterson Pass are more interesting than others for equestrians. We recommend riding in the trails that wind and weave through the pinyon and juniper. The trails in the more exposed areas toward the valley are pretty boring. There are lots of spur trails though so you don’t have to strictly follow the OHV route. If you do, it is mostly two-track dirt roads. Some places are pretty rocky so boots or shoes are recommended.
Getting Here
Where to Park: The official access is the Patterson Pass Campground, a BLM-managed site that also functions as the trailhead. There are about a dozen campsites and a small day use parking area that can fit a small rig or two. Unfortunately, from here you have to ride 2.5 boring miles along the road to get to the actual trail, or bushwhack through the pinyon and juniper, which is what I opted to do. Alternatively, Patterson Pass Road is pretty wide so technically you could park on the road up by the actual trail, but there are no good turnaround spots so do that at your own risk.
Trail Maps
