Trail Overview
Copper Cache is a challenging rockcrawling route designed for experienced offroaders seeking a technical, obstacle-dense canyon run near the historic mining town of Nelson, Nevada. Spanning approximately 1.6 miles through a tight, narrow canyon, this trail demands high-clearance, modified vehicles equipped with suspension lifts, oversized offroad tires, and skid plates. Drivers will face a continuous barrage of technical challenges from start to finish. The rugged terrain requires precise tire placement and low-range gearing as you negotiate numerous off-camber sections and boulder-strewn washes.
The true highlights of this trail are the multiple dry waterfalls that test both driver skill and vehicle capability, making rockcrawling the defining theme of the trek. Roughly halfway through the route, an abandoned historical mining operation offers a compelling spot to pull over, stretch, and explore the rich mining heritage of the Eldorado Canyon area. Due to the extremely tight canyon walls and potential for severe vehicle damage, stock rigs should avoid this trail entirely, and having a spotter is highly recommended. Optimal times to visit are during the cooler fall, winter, and spring months, as summer temperatures in this desert environment routinely exceed triple digits.
History
The Eldorado Canyon region surrounding Nelson was a major hub of mining activity starting in the mid-19th century, particularly known for gold and silver extraction. Remnants of these historic mining operations, including abandoned machinery and structural ruins, can be seen directly adjacent to the trail.
