The Dry Valley Off-Highway Vehicle Area covers over 73 square miles (46,813 acres) in central Washoe County, about 75 miles north of Reno on U.S. 395. Dispersed camping is allowed, no ADA accessibility. Extensive road networks provide many potential loop trails. Staging is available at two trailheads - Turn of the Road Trailhead and Mission Wells Trailhead. Here there are amenities such as graveled entrances, restrooms, picnic areas, and visitor information. The Dry Valley OHV area trails are open for multi-use and is frequented by hikers, bikers and equestrians, keep an eye out and be respectful of other recreators.
There are a variety of trail difficulties and trail terrain varies from flat and sandy, to high desert sagebrush, to steep lava rock canyons. Trails will have signage designating acceptable use depending on width and terrain.
Wildlife and Livestock:
Wild Horses, burros, and cattle can be encountered in the Dry Valley area at any time of year. Please observe all wildlife from a safe distance. Do not feed wildlife, as this habituates wildlife to humans and alters natural behaviors. Remember to close all gates after passing through.
Please do your part to keep Dry Valley open by staying on the designated trails in the area.
Remember to go over, not around, obstacles on designated routes to avoid unnecessarily widening the trail. Trails often run alongside private properties and utilities.
The entire valley is managed by the Bureau of Land Management.
Always plan ahead and prepare for uncertainty. Travel with warm clothing, first aid, food, water and appropriate tools to fix a problem. Traveling in groups is always a good idea, as well as informing someone of where you will be going.
For more information, contact:
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To reach the Dry Valley OHV area from Susanville, California:
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