Patterson Pass Loop

Trail Overview

The Patterson Pass Loop is a notable segment of the Silver State Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Trail in Nevada, offering enthusiasts a blend of challenging terrain and scenic landscapes. Given the elevation of approximately 6,165 feet at the Patterson Pass Campground, temperatures can vary significantly. Spring and fall are ideal for riding, offering moderate temperatures and comfortable conditions. Summers can be hot, and winters may bring snow or muddy conditions, making some parts of the trail challenging or inaccessible. It's advisable to check local weather forecasts and trail conditions before planning your trip. For those looking to extend their adventure, the Patterson Pass Campground serves as a convenient trailhead, equipped with amenities such as restrooms, fire pits, barbeque grills, picnic tables, and shade structures. The campground offers ten sites suitable for tents and RVs up to 30 feet in length. The north end of this trail connects with Patterson Pass to complete a full loop.

Photos of Patterson Pass Loop

Want to see more?

Login

Difficulty

The loop traverses a variety of terrains, from maintained dirt paths to more rugged sections requiring careful navigation. Riders will encounter areas interspersed with pinyon and juniper woodlands, providing both shade and a picturesque backdrop. Some sections of the trail are rocky, so vehicles equipped with appropriate tires and suspension are recommended. Dirt bikers have noted that trails winding through the pinyon and juniper areas are tight in areas with a small canopy to offer a more engaging experience, while the more exposed areas toward the valley can be less demanding.

History

Patterson Pass, located in Lincoln County, Nevada, stands at an elevation of 7,414 feet (2,260 meters) within the Schell Creek Range. This mountain pass has a rich history intertwined with Nevada's mining heritage. The area gained attention around 1869 with the discovery of rich silver ores, leading to the establishment of the Patterson mining district. This discovery sparked a flurry of mining activity; however, the initial boom was short-lived, with only minor, unrecorded production. In the early 20th century, the Lake Valley Mining Company operated in the region, shipping siliceous silver ore from local mines between 1920 and 1921. They also constructed a 50-ton cyanidization plant, which produced silver from 1922 to 1925. The district saw intermittent mining activity over the years, including tungsten ore production during World War II. Despite these efforts, overall production remained modest.

Technical Rating

Patterson Pass Loop can be accessed by the following ride types:

• SxS (60")
• ATV (50")
• Dirt Bike