The Ruby Mountain Relay in Nevada offers a challenging 40-mile trek through rugged ridges and forested trails, combining immense elevation gains with spectacular mountain views. This guide helps you prepare for this demanding adventure with practical tips and detailed terrain insights.
Hydrate Strategically
Water sources along the relay can be scarce; carry at least 3 liters and refill only from flowing streams after proper treatment to avoid dehydration.
Wear High-Grip Hiking Boots
Expect shifting terrain from rocky scree to forest floors—boots with ankle support and aggressive treads improve stability on steep climbs and descents.
Start Early to Maximize Daylight
The relay covers long distances with significant elevation; starting at dawn helps avoid afternoon heat and reduces risk of fatigue under fading light.
Layer for Rapid Weather Changes
Temperatures can shift dramatically through elevation changes—pack moisture-wicking base layers and insulated jackets to adjust as conditions change.
Ruby Mountain Relay: A Rugged Adventure Through Nevada’s Hidden High Trails
The Ruby Mountain Relay in Elko, Nevada, is an adventurous trek that challenges your endurance and rewards you with dramatic mountain views and dense forest stretches. Spanning roughly 40 miles, this relay traces the rugged ridgelines and valleys of the Ruby Mountains—a fierce, living landscape that demands respect and readiness.
Starting at a lower elevation near Elko, the trail gains altitude steadily, with an overall elevation gain close to 6,000 feet. Expect to navigate steep switchbacks carved into mountainsides, crossing mixed terrain that ranges from rocky outcrops to pine-shaded paths, all energized by winds that seem to push you onward. The trail’s forested sections feel alive; ancient pines crowd the sides, whispering in the breeze, while mountain streams challenge your footing with their slippery rocks and spirited currents.
The Ruby Mountain Relay isn't a casual stroll. It requires solid fitness and reliable gear—think sturdy boots with good ankle support and moisture-wicking layers to adjust for changes in temperature and exertion. Hydration stations are limited, so carrying sufficient water is essential, or plan your route near known water sources where streams dare you to refill.
The relay's timing is key. Early summer offers melting snow patches that cool the air but can also slow your pace, while fall presents crisp, dry conditions and clear views after the summer haze fades. The landscape changes visibly, with wildflower patches giving way to golden aspens and cottonwoods.
Along the route, keep an eye out for hidden viewpoints that open onto broad valleys and distant peaks. Wildlife is active—mule deer often graze quietly off the path, and the occasional hawk circles above, sharp-eyed and patient. The Ruby Mountains are a mountain range fiercely itself—its energy neither tamed nor overwhelmed by human presence but inviting those who come prepared to test their limits.
If you plan to tackle the Ruby Mountain Relay, prepare for a steady rhythm of climbing and descending, with terrain that can shift rapidly from forgiving dirt paths to loose rock scree. Make sure your footwear grips well, your pack remains balanced, and your pace respects the mountain’s answers. This relay is a robust outdoor challenge, promising reward through effort and respect for the wild terrain it crosses.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there marked water refill points along the Ruby Mountain Relay?
Water sources exist mainly as natural streams and springs scattered unevenly along the route. These can be seasonal and sometimes dry out in late summer, so always carry sufficient water and treat any natural water before drinking.
What wildlife am I likely to encounter on the Ruby Mountain Relay?
Expect mule deer, mountain chickadees, and occasional sightings of mountain lions or black bears. Early morning and evening hours are best for wildlife spotting, but keep a respectful distance to avoid disturbing animals.
Is the trail suitable for beginners or families with children?
The relay’s considerable distance and elevation gain make it better suited for experienced hikers or well-prepared relay teams. Families with young children should consider shorter day hikes in the Ruby Mountains instead.
Are there any historical or cultural landmarks along the route?
The Ruby Mountains hold significance for the Western Shoshone people and were later explored during Western expansion. While the relay path focuses on natural terrain, occasional interpretive signs near trailheads highlight this cultural history.
What environmental considerations should hikers keep in mind?
The area is fragile and prone to erosion. Stick to established trails, pack out all waste, and avoid disturbing wildlife habitats. Fire restrictions often apply due to dry conditions, so check local regulations before your trip.
When is the best time to photograph the Ruby Mountain Relay scenery?
Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best light conditions for photography with softer shadows and vivid color contrasts. Sunrise atop higher ridges offers dramatic shots of the valley fog and distant peaks.
Recommended Gear
High-ankle hiking boots
Provides necessary ankle support and traction for varied rocky and forest terrain.
Hydration system (bladder or bottles)
Ensures access to water during long stretches between natural sources.
Layered clothing system
Allows adjustment to temperature swings from cool mornings to warmer afternoons.
Trekking poles
Aid stability on steep ascents and descents and reduce joint strain over long distances.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- "Secret vantage point near Liberty Pass offers panoramic views without trail congestion."
- "A quiet glade along the South Ruby Creek trail is a perfect midday rest spot, often missed by relay participants."
Wildlife
- "Mule deer are abundant and surprisingly approachable in early morning."
- "Look for mountain bluebirds flitting through the forest edges during spring and summer."
History
"The Ruby Mountains were long inhabited by the Western Shoshone, and their trails were used for hunting and gathering. Later, the area became a key resource zone for miners and settlers seeking timber and game."