With a population under 60,000, Carson City is the charming heart of Nevada. But our state capital is more than just a political hub. It’s also full of arts and culture, eclectic shops, unique restaurants, and access to some seriously scenic outdoor recreation spots. Equestrians can get a bird’s eye view of the capital city and beyond with a ride at Prison Hill.
Prison Hill is a rocky outcropping east of downtown Carson City. It was named in 1868 after sandstone from its quarry was used to build the state prison and other major state buildings. Today, the 2,500 acre area is reserved and protected for recreation. There are numerous trails on and around Prison Hill for equestrians to choose from to explore Prison Hill.
From the east side of the hill you can keep it mild with a ride along the Carson River Trail or challenge yourself to ride up the steep Dead Truck Canyon Trail. (So named for the 1950s Chevy left from when this was an actual road.) On the west side of the hill, the North and West Loops and Odyssey Trail are more technical, with fun switchbacks up and over the hill. And from the north end, you can meander among sagebrush and other native plants on several different short loop trails or do some hill work and ride to the top.
Along with designated trails, you’ll also find tons of unmarked trails. You can make any number of loops and ride any number of miles, depending on how adventurous you want to be. Don’t be fooled by the word hill in the name – Prison Hill’s peak is at 5,560 feet. All trailheads start at around 4,500 feet, so expect to do some climbing if you want to get the best views. And wow – talk about views! No matter which side of Prison Hill you tackle, you’ll be rewarded with epic views of Carson City and the surrounding mountains.
Motorized vehicles are only allowed in the southern portion of Prison Hill (marked OHV area on the map above). All the trails are a mixture of single track and wide old roads. The footing is primarily decomposed granite (DG) on the southern portion of Prison Hill and volcanic rock on the northern portion. Boots or shoes are recommended. Except along the Carson River, there is no water in the Prison Hill area.
The terrain is full of big healthy sagebrush, bitterbrush, Mormon tea, and other Great Basin natives. In the spring, the wildflowers pop here – keep an eye open for lupine, desert peach, paintbrush, and more. The lower elevation trails are lightly popular with bicyclists, runners, and dog walkers, but don’t expect to see many people up at the top except a hardy hiker or two.
Other than people, keep an eye open for a variety of birds along the river, as well as lizards, jackrabbits, and other standard desert critters. Bears have also been spotted in this area.
Getting Here
There are three trailheads for equestrians.
Prison Hill Recreation Area Trailhead
Located on the west side of Prison Hill. This is a non-motorized trailhead with designated equestrian parking. It has restrooms and garbage cans. The equestrian parking is along the fenceline and there is room for several rigs. Please note that the dirt road to the trailhead has some very rocky sections.
Silver Saddle Ranch
Located on the east side of Prison Hill. This historic ranch sits right on the Carson River. Parking for horse trailers is past the main day use parking area at the ranch itself. There is plenty of parking for trailers. Be aware that this is a working ranch – there may be cows in the pastures or farm machinery in use. There is non-potable water onsite and garbage cans.
5th Street Trailhead
Located on the north side of Prison Hill. This large parking lot does not have designated trailer parking, but there is room along the fenceline for quite a few rigs. This trailhead has a vault toilet, picnic table, and garbage can. From here you can
Trail Maps
