Job's Peak Ranch Trail, NV

Overview: Most of the fertile, valuable land in the Carson Valley and foothills of the Sierra is private property. It was an after thought to have access to the mountains themselves which are for the most part public lands, administered by various agencies. In this case several non profits such as the Carson Valley Trail Association, Tahoe Rim Trail Association, and Backcountry Horsemen of Nevada working together with the BLM and U.S Forest Service negotiated with generations old ranchers as well as recent arrivals to grant easement to Forest Service property. The methods used in this case to provide access to public lands in northern Nevada are now being used as a template for future endeavors.


Hike: The paved trailhead has a kiosk with a map of connecting trails but no facilities. This hike can be done in either direction, as a shuttle, key exchange, or out and back, connecting with other trails. The hike is described here from north to south. The trail starts out following attractive buck and rail fencing, offering picturesque views of the towering Sierra. There is no shade as the vegetation is mostly wild sage, brush, and tumbleweed. It is common to see lizards darting about and no doubt you will scare up a few rabbits, perhaps a black tailed jack rabbit. In about a half mile the trail turns west toward the mountains. A steady climb brings you to some attractive rock outcroppings and soon you are in the tall pines. The trail rejoins some buck and rail fencing here as it turns south. The first of several creek crossings is next. Springtime will find these creeks certainly running with fresh clear cold water. The chances for water diminish greatly as summer sets in. The trail continues to gain altitude as it enters federal land without any fanfare. There are panoramic views of Carson Valley off to the left. The forest service has been pro active managing the forest in this area and the mature forest is attractive. As a reminder that civilization is not far away you come to a paved road. The trail continues on the other side making its way to the high point. Without any notice you are actually entering California at this point. From here the trail begins its serpentine wiggle down, eventually giving back all the elevation. A larger creek crossing here utilizes a neatly chiseled log bridge to cross. Soon a marked intersection is for the Valley View Loop on your left. Shortly after, another intersection appears on your right. This is for the Lonesome Trail. The gentle descent continues down to the end of the trail where it meets Sandy Trail. To complete the thru hike to the Faye-Luther Trailhead bear left on Sandy Trail .3 miles to the trailhead, or return the way you came.

2010-06-03 AZLOT69