Take a ride through Nevada’s history while enjoying the beautiful scenery of the high desert just south of Ely. Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park features unique remnants of Nevada’s early mining history along with miles of high desert to explore on horseback. The park is open to equestrians for day use and features several non-motorized trails.
Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park was established in 1994 but the state has managed the site since the 1950s to protect its six charcoal kilns. The beehive shaped kilns were in operation from 1876-1879 to process silver ore from the nearby Ward Mining District. After the mines petered out, they were used as shelters for local ranchers and reportedly as hideouts for bandits. These are not the only mining kilns in Nevada but they are the best preserved, and they make for a interesting place to start a trail ride.
The charcoal kilns line the main entrance to the park so you’ll see them as soon you start riding. You can ride right up to the kilns and they make for a fun photo op with horses. There are several interpretive panels that tell the history of the kilns and explain how they were used. The kilns are a popular stop for tourists, most of which just snap a photo and get back on the road. But the kilns are just the beginning of what this park has to offer.
The park has several designated trails, most of which are open to horses. You can combine any of these to make loops of various distances or just wander cross country. The trails are single-track and non-motorized, with the exception of one around the northern boundary of the park. There is no cell service here so be sure to download trail maps before you arrive.
The park sits at about 7,000 feet elevation so you’ll ride through classic Great Basin terrain of pinyon, juniper, and sagebrush. Several creeks flow out of the Egan Range and there are plenty of opportunities to get your horse to water. You’ll find lush meadows along the creeks and up the foothills. The trails are not technical. There are no obstacles, other than small water crossings, and elevation gain/loss is minimal.
Some of the trails need maintenance and can be hard to follow, especially with the number of cow trails in the park. But because the terrain is so mild, it’s easy to bushwhack and get around any overgrown sections. In addition to cows (there are many grazing here), keep your eyes open for mule deer, grouse, and elk.
If you’re looking for mild riding with lots of scenery and few people, Ward is a great option. Due to snow, it’s best to ride here in the late spring, summer, and fall. The day use fee for Nevada residents is $5.00 if you do not have a State Parks pass.
Getting Here
Where to Park: There is a large parking lot at the kilns that can fit several rigs. There is a bathroom, garbage can, and dumpster. State Parks would appreciate it if you cleaned up any manure in the parking lot.
Trail Maps
