Trail Overview
Serving primarily as an access route to the stunning Ruby Mountain Wilderness, the Overland Lake Trail is a quick, scenic drive. As you make your way up the foothills, the trail is flanked by seasonal wildflowers and classic Nevada scrub. About halfway up, the trail opens into a very large, flat area that serves as an excellent staging point. Continuing past the halfway mark, the route climbs a slightly steep, loose section before terminating at the Overland Lake hiking trailhead. Once at the top, off-roaders and hikers alike are rewarded with outstanding, expansive views of the valley floor sweeping out below. In general, the trail is quite narrow. Stay alert for oncoming vehicles and make a mental note of wider spots or turnouts as you drive, in case you need to back up to let someone pass. This area is active open range. You are highly likely to encounter cattle on or near the trail. There is absolutely zero cell service on this trail or at the trailhead. Download offline maps before heading out.
Difficulty
The trail is generally a short, sweet, and well-graded drive. It earns a 2 rating primarily because it is a very narrow single-lane route, meaning you will likely have to reverse to a pull-off if you encounter oncoming traffic. Additionally, there is a minor steep and loose section right at the very end as you approach the trailhead parking.
History
The routes providing access into the rugged Ruby Mountains, often referred to as the "Alps of Nevada," have long been utilized by Basque sheepherders and early cattle ranchers. Trails like FS57828 likely began as rough cattle paths or staging routes for moving livestock into the higher, cooler alpine meadows during the hot summer months. Today, these historic agricultural pathways provide modern adventurers with invaluable access to some of Nevada's most pristine wilderness areas.
Offroad