Many people ask what there is to see around Elko, Nevada. It is a mining town in Northern Nevada, what does it have to offer? One of my favorite places to explore is Lamoille Canyon, which offers several several activities years round.
Lamoille Canyon is part of the Humboldt- Tolyabe National Forests. In the summer, there is camping available at Thomas Canyon and Terraces Campgrounds, hiking trails to several lakes, horse trails, and fishing in Lamoille Creek. In the winter time, many locals drop by for hiking, snowshoeing, cross country skiing and snowmobiling in the canyon. Unfortunately last year there was a fire that started September 30th, 2018 and burned 9,000 acres in one day burning across Seitz Canyon entering Lamoille Canyon, spreading up canyon.
It was a sad day for the locals in Lamoille, Spring Creek, and Elko. The lower part of Talbot Creek Trail had burned and Lions Camp cabins and upper slopes and bottom burned. This included the old lodge building. The fire had stopped further up the canyon and across the main road, Thomas Canyon Campground and the tall cottonwoods and aspens trees remained intact.
Today was the first time I have driven to the canyon since the fire. We planned a short trip as it is our first hike with our 6-week old baby. Driving up the canyon, we saw the burnt areas. As we drove further up the canyon, the color’s changed from black to deep green and full of life. The area was so peaceful as the waterfalls and creeks flowed. through the canyon. We had stopped in several areas to relax and take pictures.
The area that we stayed the longest was at the end of the road, which was the Scenic Byway. There we went for a quick hike along the Lamoille Creek, picnic, and quick soaking of feet in the Lamoille Creek (only the wife). Below are some of the pictures of the beautiful area. Next trip up the canyon, I hope to have photos of the lakes in the Upper Canyon.
If you are ever stop through Elko, Nevada, a trip to Lamoille Canyon is worthwhile and breathtaking. The canyon will continue to recover and welcomes you.
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