The Ruby Mountains rise sharply from the high desert southeast of Elko, topping out at Ruby Dome (2,947 m) and presenting a genuinely impressive wall of granite and limestone. Despite their remoteness — or because of it — the Rubies contain some of the best mountain wilderness in the Great Basin.
The main access point is Lamoille Canyon, a U-shaped glacial valley reached by a paved road from the small town of Lamoille, about 30 kilometres south of Elko. The canyon road winds through spectacular scenery to a trailhead at around 2,500 metres, from which you can hike into alpine terrain with glacially carved lakes, cirques, and panoramic views. The Ruby Crest Trail runs the full length of the range, a 60-kilometre route for experienced backpackers. Day hikers can reach Thomas Creek Lake or Liberty Lake with reasonable effort from the upper canyon trailhead.
In winter, Ruby Mountains Heli-Experience operates helicopter skiing on the south-facing bowls above Lamoille, accessed by helicopter and serving deep powder with no lift lines and few other tracks. It remains one of the most authentic heli-ski operations in the American West.
Getting there: Take NV-227 south from Elko to Lamoille, then follow Lamoille Canyon Road to the trailhead. No facilities at the upper trailhead; fuel up in Elko.