Ash Canyon Trail - Echo Canyon SP, NV

Overview
The trail climbs almost 300 ft to the valley rim, then descends into Ash Canyon, a steep-walled volcanic canyon. Views from the top are nice, but hiking through Ash Canyon is the highlight here.

History
Echo Canyon State Park is located as one in a string of valleys that ultimately drain into the Muddy River, and hence to the Colorado. Volcanic activity 45-125 m.y.a. created the formations throughout the park and the cliffs that make up the walls of Echo Canyon. This canyon has been used by humans for thousands of years, likely due to the reliable water. The flow was blocked by a dam in 1970, creating Echo Canyon Reservoir, which is now stocked with trout and bass.

Hike
From the trail head, the trail climbs gradually up the slopes to the rim of Echo Canyon valley. The views from here are quite nice in all directions. As in all parts of the Great Basin, valleys here are surrounded by steep mountain ranges, making views very scenic. The trail then heads down the nondescript ridge, leading to quite a surprise - Ash Canyon. Ash Canyon is a gem of weathered volcanic rock. You wind between the steep walls, down and around dryfalls, and past side canyons. There are many unique plants growing in the canyon, which adds to the fun of the hike. Once the canyon becomes too steep for a trail and you climb out, the trail winds down over and around varied outcroppings. The trail ends by dropping to the bottom of Echo Canyon, along the pleasant flow of water in this canyon. You can return either by hiking back on the trail or walking along the road through Echo Canyon.

Check out the Official Route and Triplog.

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