Yankee Blade Loop (FS43184)

Trail Overview

The Yankee Blade Loop is a premier scenic adventure that climbs deep into the Toiyabe Range, offering a comprehensive look at the numerous mining claims that once fueled the region's economy. The journey begins at the Austin Ranger District Station, a recommended stop during the open season to gather current maps and area-specific information. The route starts as an easy, well-graded road, but as you transition into the hills, the terrain becomes significantly more demanding. As the trail gains elevation, the road narrows into a series of loose, rocky hill climbs and tight switchbacks. The landscape is a living museum; you will pass countless tailings piles, remnants of old mining machinery, and stone foundations of buildings long reclaimed by time. At the midpoint of the loop, near the summit of the pass, you will encounter a few remarkably intact historic structures. Reaching an elevation of approximately 7,500 feet, you are rewarded with majestic, panoramic views of the rugged mountain peaks and the sprawling Reese River Valley far below. While you may find a couple of bars of LTE service near the high points, coverage is inconsistent in the canyons. Download offline maps before leaving the Austin Ranger Station. At 7,500 feet, conditions can change rapidly. Carry at least one gallon of water per person per day, extra fuel, and a full-sized spare tire. The Yankee Blade district contains numerous unstable ruins and hidden shafts. "Stay Out, Stay Alive."

Photos of Yankee Blade Loop (FS43184)

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Difficulty

Rated a 3 due to the combination of steep, loose climbs, tight switchbacks, and the high-consequence nature of the shelf road sections. Near the summit, the trail becomes a high-altitude shelf road with significant drop-offs and no safety railings. Extra caution is advised, especially for those uncomfortable with heights. The trail is narrow with very few places to pull over for oncoming traffic. Pay close attention to the road ahead and be prepared to use the occasional turnout.

History

The Yankee Blade district was settled in the early 1860s and quickly became a bustling community of over 5,000 people at its peak. It even boasted its own post office and competing newspapers, rivaling Austin for regional dominance. The mining here was intense, focusing on rich silver veins. By the late 1800s, the easy ore was gone, and the town faded into a ghost camp. Today, the standing buildings at the top of the pass serve as silent monuments to the incredible effort required to extract silver from such a high and rugged environment.

Technical Rating

Yankee Blade Loop (FS43184) can be accessed by the following ride types:

• High-Clearance 4x4
• SUV
• SxS (60")
• ATV (50")
• Dirt Bike