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Midas Area

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This is a must do stop if you are looking to get a feel for Nevada's history.

Trail Uses

Location

Elko County, Humboldt County, Lander County

Length

649.00 miles (Network)

Towns

Battle Mountain, Midas, Winnemucca

Surface

Dirt

Pets

Permitted

Fees

No

Wilderness Study Areas

Little Humboldt River Wilderness Study Area

Other Activities

Description

Nestled in rural central Nevada, Midas stands as a forgotten community with a rich history rooted in gold mining. Once among the largest mining towns in Elko County, alongside Jarbidge, Midas now retains its charm with a local saloon as the sole surviving amenity. Accessible via well-maintained dirt and asphalt roads, the towns of Battle Mountain and Winnemucca offer additional conveniences for residents and visitors alike.

Contrary to the arid, rocky desert that envelops the community, the environs of Midas showcase a surprising lushness. Numerous roads wind out of town, leading into the picturesque hills, providing ideal vantage points for photography enthusiasts.

For the adventurous spirits, embarking on a challenging journey through the rugged two tracks south of Midas, traversing the Sheep Creek Range, opens up a route to Battle Mountain. While demanding, this ambitious trek unveils the untamed beauty of the region, inviting intrepid explorers to immerse themselves in the breathtaking landscapes

Other Information

For more information on OHV rules and regulations in Nevada, visit the OHV website.

For more information on the history of Midas, visit Travel Nevada.

Much of the land south of Midas is owned by ranchers, with a checkered land ownership pattern classic to the areas around the Transcontinental Railway in Nevada. Please be aware of private property boundaries as you travel, and take care to close all gates you open, as there is a large active ranch industry in the area.

Do not touch or take any artifacts from any archeological sites you may come across. Please report damage to archeological sites here!

Given that portions of the Midas area are designated wilderness, only hikers and equestrians are allowed within the wilderness boundary. Motorized and mechanized use is only permitted on surrounding non-wilderness trails. Please be respectful of the wilderness boundary and only travel on designated roads and trails for your activity type. Horses are allowed and only certified weed free hay can be brought in.

Trail Manager

For more information visit the BLM website or contact:

Bureau of Land Management - Elko District Office
BLM Elko District Office
3900 Idaho Street
Elko, Nevada 89801
Phone: 775-753-0200
BLM_NV_ELDOwebmail@blm.gov
View website

Bureau of Land Management - Tuscarora Field Office
3900 Idaho Street

Elko, Nevada 89801
Phone: 775-753-0200
BLM_NV_ELDOwebmail@blm.gov
View website

Nearby GeoCaches

Geocaching.com

Find geocaches near Midas Area
Geocaching.com

Trail Tips

Plan Ahead and Prepare

Be prepared to find your way home. Familiarize yourself with the area before you set out and bring your map and compass along.

Trailhead Information

From Winnemucca, Nevada:

Head East on U.S. Highway 80 for 15 miles.
Take Exit 194 and turn left onto Morrison Ave.
Take the first right onto State Route 789/Old Highway 40 East for 16 miles.
Stay right to continue onto Midas Road for 28 miles.
- Staging can be done along public roads or on dirt lots on BLM land.

Legend

Hide All

Caution Directional Sign

Gate

Historic Attraction

Parking

Parking-Trailers

Scenic View

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