Sand Mountain
Fallon
Overview
|
Wed 74 | 53 |
Thu 71 | 50 |
Fri 63 | 46 |
Sat 68 | 42 |
Sun 74 | 45 |
| View Full Weather Details | ||||
|
Wed 74 | 53 |
Thu 71 | 50 |
Fri 63 | 46 |
Sat 68 | 42 |
Sun 74 | 45 |
| View Full Weather Details | ||||
Pensive Abby on the top of Sand Mountain
Just north of US Route 50, the loneliest highway in the US, , Sand Mountain towers 660 sandy feet above the surrounding sagebrush high desert at almost 2 miles long, and 660 feet high. This is a short side trip that is highly recommended if you are passing through Nevada on US-50. Be sure to also visit the nearby Pony Express station along the way.
It is said that on windy days, due to the shape and type of sand grains that make up Sand Mountain, the mountain makes an odd "moaning" sound. Unfortunately (or fortunately) on our stop over it was a windless day, with the only sound heard the ATVs in the distance.
Sand Mountain is a mecca for ATV and off-road enthusiasts. Hiking up and around on the dunes during busy weekends requires a bit of caution. We visited in the off season, and aside from a few ATV's, had a very relaxed and peaceful visit. Camping is a bit spartan. Unless you are riding in the dunes and staying for a few days, I would recommend finding different camping arrangements.
Diane on the summit ridge.
Getting There
From Fallon, NV, head east on US-50. About 25 miles from Fallon is Sand Mountain Recreation Area on the north side of the road. Take the signed road 2 miles to Sand Mountain proper.
Wandering to the base of Sand Mountain
Route
From the parking area, the obvious and enticing objective is to climb the tallest dune! It's a bit of a slog going up, but fun coming down. Highly recommended, though just wandering around the base is fun for the less motivated.
Photos
Maps
| Sand Mountain |
11S 379167mE 4350929mN N39° 17' 58" W118° 24' 05" |
| Pony Express Trailhead |
11S 377928mE 4349958mN N39° 17' 25" W118° 24' 56" |
| Pony Express Station |
11S 377706mE 4350035mN N39° 17' 28" W118° 25' 05" |