For many, Nevada is all about the bright lights and casinos of cities like Las Vegas and Reno. However, there is another part of Nevada that most people don’t often take the time to experience; the natural side of the state.
There are a number of parks and reserves both completely within the state and touching its borders, but one beautiful (and recently added) gem is the Pine Forest Range Wilderness. Created only in 2014, and run by theBureau of Land Management (BLM), it covers just over 24,000 acres of varied terrain.
Nestled into the Nevada and Oregon border, it’s surrounded by slightly more famous land such as the Black Rock Desert, which is most well known as the yearly host of the popular Burning Man Festival, and the Sheldon National Antelope Refuge.
In this post, we’ll take a look at some of the very special and unique things the Pine Forest Range Wilderness has to offer visitors.
Outdoorsman’s Paradise
Any true outdoors-man or outdoors-woman loves hitting the trail in search of parks, forests, and reserves that aren’t teeming with other people. They love to be on the land, camping, hiking, hunting, or fishing in a beautiful surrounding.
What really draws people to this area is the trout fishing, especially rainbow trout. Unlike much of Nevada, which most people think of as a state with large swaths of desert, this area rises as high as 9,000 feet and is surrounded by mountains, hills, streams, and subalpine lakes that were left over from the glacial period.
The most popular of these lakes, Blue Lake is consistently stocked with fish, like trout, by the US Fish and Wildlife Service.
Hiking and Climbing
Since the Pine Forest Wilderness Range is an alpine region, there are ample opportunities for both hiking and climbing in the area. There are a number of peaks that are over 9,000 feet, and the tallest peak in the area, Duffer Peak, is just about 9,400 feet.
It’s important to note that Pine Forest is what’s known as a primitive recreational area. That means there are no marked trails that are maintained by the BLM, and the trails are rugged. So, it’s always a good idea to be more experienced and well prepared if planning to hike in this area.
Natural Beauty and Photography
One thing that can be enjoyed by every visitor to Pine Forest regardless of experience and expertise is the incredible natural beauty of the area. This is a true photographer’s paradise, as the combination of the height and the climate mean that the Aspen and other foliage will sparkle with fall colors.
The lakes reflect the blue skies and the surrounding grasses are often dotted with wildflowers in the spring and summer, making it a truly spectacular place for photographers to liven up their portfolios with images from a place most people have not seen. You don’t want to miss out!
Have you been to Pine Forest Wilderness Range? We’d love to hear your thoughts, let us know in the comments!
