Explore the Best Things to Do Outdoors Near Ely, Nevada

Ely, Nevada, offers a striking gateway to the Great Basin’s rugged landscapes and remote beauty. For outdoor enthusiasts, the surrounding area extends a variety of tangible experiences—from hiking and mountain biking to fishing and climbing—against the backdrop of soaring mountains, ancient forests, and open desert plains. This guide highlights practical ways to engage with the environment here, ensuring your adventure respects the fierce independence of this land while equipping you for a rewarding visit.

The nearby Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest wears many faces, with trails that challenge your legs and reward with commanding views. Expect forested paths where pines brush your shoulders, and open ridges where winds test your resolve, the Sun Mountain Trail being a prime example. Stretching for 4.5 miles roundtrip with a moderate 800-foot elevation gain, it carves through varied terrain—from shaded glens to rocky outcrops—offering chances to catch sight of mule deer or soaring raptors.

To the east, the Steptoe Valley extends its vastness, where river currents in the South Fork of the Humboldt River dare you to fish its brisk waters, teeming with trout. The riverbank’s quiet pulse and tall cottonwoods invite a break from the day’s exertions.

For those craving a unique mix of history and nature, Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park lies just 25 miles west. Beyond the six massive beehive-shaped ovens, the park’s trails give access to mixed conifer forests and meadows that hum with cicadas in summer and thrill with fall colors.

Planning your time outdoors near Ely requires readiness: footwear must handle rocky and uneven ground, hydration is critical under the dry high-desert sun, and timing should lean towards early mornings or late afternoons to avoid midday heat. Local weather shifts quickly; layers are essential as evenings cool sharply after sun drops behind the mountains.

Browse below for detailed descriptions of the best local outdoor adventures in Ely, Nevada, and find guides on everything from trail conditions to seasonal preparations. This practical overview will help you commit confidently to your next exploration, honoring Ely’s raw and unyielding wilderness.