Harrison Pass & Ruby Valley

By Denis & Sandi Inman

It was the final day of the PV4W Elko Club Run and we were on our own, no more help from the Ruby Mountain Rebels. After our 7:00 AM Driver’s Meeting, 4 Jeep Wranglers drove through Elko and on to Spring Creek via the Lamoille Highway. At the 227, our group turned South. The Thursday expedition consisted of me & Sandi, Vic & Janice, Sel & Pam and Rick & Mary. Highway 227 becomes County Road 718 and eventually Harrison Pass Road.

When we reached the 7240′ pass we decided to do some exploring on the Ruby Crest Trail. After reaching an elevation of over 8000′ and experiencing some tracks where putting our rigs in 4 wheel drive was a good idea, we headed back down to the pass. Our quartet of Jeeps took a quick break at Star Mine then proceeded to Ruby Valley Road (Hastings Cutoff Scenic Drive) where we turned South towards the Ruby Lake Visitors Center, which was closed.

Moving on, the voyagers continued South to Fort Ruby where we had lunch. Neither Harrison Pass Road nor Ruby Valley Road could be considered a 4×4 trail in good weather, but the scenery is awesome none the less. Our wrap dinner was at the Red Lion buffet. Everyone agreed that the 4 days of trails were excellent and we all had a good time. Unfortunately, it was time to go home and start planning for the next PV4W long distance club run.