Muleshoe Valley Road

Trail Overview

Taking Muleshoe Valley Road eastward from State Road 318 across the mountains to Highway 93 is a journey through one of Nevada's most rugged and picturesque landscapes. This remote dirt road winds through the heart of Muleshoe Valley, climbing into the mountains before descending northward toward the vast, open terrain near Highway 93. Starting from SR 318, Muleshoe Valley Road immediately immerses travelers in classic Nevada high desert scenery. The valley floor is dotted with sagebrush, hardy desert grasses, and clusters of juniper trees, which become more prominent as the road gains elevation. These twisted and resilient junipers, some centuries old, provide shelter for wildlife and cattle alike, their dark green canopies standing in contrast to the dry, golden earth. Ranching has long been a part of this landscape, and cattle graze freely along the open range. It's common to see them near the roadside or wandering through the wide valleys, their presence a testament to the enduring ranching traditions of eastern Nevada. Travelers should be mindful of open range conditions--cattle often cross the road unexpectedly. Wildlife thrives in this rugged terrain. Mule deer, pronghorn antelope, and even the elusive mountain lion call these hills home. Golden eagles and red-tailed hawks soar overhead, scanning the landscape for prey, while jackrabbits and coyotes are frequent sights, especially during the cooler hours of dawn and dusk. In the early mornings or late evenings, it's possible to spot a herd of pronghorn sprinting across the open valleys, their incredible speed a sight to behold. The road itself varies in condition--mostly well-graded dirt, but prone to washouts and rough patches, especially after heavy rains or snowmelt. Four-wheel drive is recommended for travelers unfamiliar with the area. Climbing into the mountains, the scenery shifts, offering panoramic views of the rugged peaks and sprawling valleys below. The air grows cooler, carrying the scent of juniper and desert sage. As Muleshoe Valley Road winds its way northward, the descent toward Highway 93 opens up to broader, flatter terrain. The mountains gradually give way to the sweeping basins of eastern Nevada, marking the transition from the secluded highlands to the more traveled routes of the region. This journey through Muleshoe Valley is more than just a backroad shortcut--it's an immersion into the untamed, quiet beauty of Nevada's wildlands, where the rhythm of nature and ranching life continues much as it has for generations. Starting on NV318 at the turn off of Sunnyside Road... it is listed on the map as Sunnyside and the road sign says Bristol Wells Rd, so not sure which one is accurate. You will find your way northeast to US93 near Grassy Mountain. The first 9 miles on Sunnyside Road are fairly smooth on a good dirt road. Once you turn left at Muleshoe Valley Rd to head north, the road becomes more two-track than road. There are a handful of sections that are very soft and depending on what time of year it is, you could find extremely dusty or muddy conditions. Other than those areas, the route is a really pleasant ride through the desert hills. This connector route from NV318 to US93 isn't the fastest, but it is certainly used enough by ranchers and some desert campers.

Photos of Muleshoe Valley Road

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Difficulty

The route is mostly hardpack with some areas where there are deep rutted tracks and could be extremely dusty or muddy depending on the weather and time of year. It is not too steep, but there is an overall steady climb from start to finish. The road itself varies in condition--mostly well-graded dirt, but prone to washouts and rough patches, especially after heavy rains or snowmelt. Four-wheel drive is recommended for travelers unfamiliar with the area. Climbing into the mountains, the scenery shifts, offering panoramic views of the rugged peaks and sprawling valleys below. The air grows cooler, carrying the scent of juniper and desert sage.

History

The area surrounding Grassy Mountain, situated between Pioche and Majors Place in Lincoln County, Nevada, is steeped in a rich tapestry of history and natural significance. Long before European settlers arrived, the region was inhabited by the Southern Paiute people. They lived in harmony with the land, utilizing its resources for sustenance and cultural practices. The arrival of settlers in the mid-19th century disrupted their traditional way of life, leading to significant challenges for the indigenous population. The discovery of silver in the 1860s transformed the area dramatically. In 1864, silver ore was found in the mountains near present-day Pioche. However, substantial development didn't occur until 1869, when San Francisco financier Francois Louis Alfred Pioche invested in the mines, leading to the establishment of the town bearing his name. By the early 1870s, Pioche had become a bustling mining hub, with a population estimated at 10,000 residents in 1871. The town earned a reputation for lawlessness, with numerous violent disputes over mining claims. Grassy Mountain itself stands as a prominent feature in the landscape, reaching an elevation of 8,617 feet. The mountain is notable for its geological formations, including deposits of petrified wood, which are sought after for their vibrant orange hues. The region has been the subject of geological studies, highlighting its complex faulting and diverse mineralogy. Today, the area between Pioche and Majors Place offers a glimpse into Nevada's storied past. Visitors can explore remnants of historic mining operations, appreciate the unique geological features of Grassy Mountain, and reflect on the enduring legacy of the indigenous communities that first called this land home.

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