The Pine Grove Hills extend from the Wilson Canyon OHV Area in the north, to the Bighorn Campground on the East Walker River to the south. Numerous OHV trails exist south of Smith, NV off State Route 338. Trails are mostly easy dirt roads and sand washes, with some technical rocky areas in the higher elevations and canyons. Most roads are wide enough for high clearance 4wd passenger vehicles, but be prepared to encounter some washes, hill climbs and technical trails.
A nice day trip is the Sand Canyon Adventure Loop. This is a 23-mile loop from either of the dispersed camping areas, up and into the beautiful Pine Grove Hills. This loop will take the rider through the varied terrain, canyons, summits, and spectacular scenery and views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Side trips from this loop could include short visits to the historic ghost town of Pine Grove, and to the Cowboy and Rockland mine sites.
Several dispersed campsites are available, with no facilities or water. Please remember to always take out what you bring in. The Sand Canyon dispersed camping areas are popular with both OHV riders and equestrians. Please be respectful of other trail users. This is a very remote area, Always plan ahead and prepare for uncertainty. Travel with warm clothing, first aid, food, water and appropriate tools to fix a problem.
Motor vehicles are permitted on designated trails only. For local regulations regarding OHV use on county roads, check with the local authorities or land managers.
Given that portions of the Pine Grove 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.
Lodging and nearby services are located in Smith Valley and Yerington.
For more equestrian specific information visit Nevada Horse Trails!
For more information visit the US Forest Service website or contact:
Download map files for your own use.
Wilson Canyon: Access to staging and dispersed camping for the northern portion of the area is available from the Wilson Canyon OHV Area on State Route 208 east of Smith. Riders should head west from the rest area before crossing the highway.
Sand Canyon: The Sand Canyon staging and dispersed camping area is approx. 11.5 miles south of Wellington on SR 338. Travel another 4-5 miles south to Nye Canyon Rd. for another staging and camping area. Dirt roads are to the left and are marked with signs on the highway.
Pine Grove Road: The east side of the mountains are accessed from Pine Grove Road. From Smith Valley, take SR 208 East about 16 miles, turn right onto Pine Grove Road. Staging site is about 10 miles south on Forest Road #42059.
Bear activity is high in this area. Keep (people) (pets) (property) safe. Keep bears wild. For more information on the BearWise campaign, visit the Recreate Responsibly page, or click on this link to learn how to be BearWise in the outdoors.
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