- Region
- NV, USA
- Country
- United States
- Best for
- hiking
- Best season
- Spring, Summer
- Permits
- Confirm current permit requirements and tr…
- Managed by
- USDA Forest Service
Plan with verified data
High Schells Wilderness trip tools
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Photos of High Schells Wilderness
How to get there
Ely is the nearby planning base; High Schells Wilderness lies just to its east. Confirm approach roads, trailhead locations, and parking with the Forest Service before departure. The wilderness inventory map point is inside the boundary and is not a trailhead, campsite, or access point.
- Ely
Nearby community west of the wilderness and a geographic starting point for planning an approach, not a wilderness trailhead. Obtain specific road and parking directions before setting out.
- Valley primitive trails
Primitive trails in most valleys provide opportunities for hikers and equestrians. Confirm a specific trail entrance and its approach with the Forest Service; no individual trailhead is identified here.
Sources: fs.usda.gov · University of Montana / federal agency partners · Wilderness Connect / federal wilderness boundary inventory. Confirm road and trailhead conditions with the managing agency before you leave.
NV, USA · United States
- Mountaineering
- Winter Camping
- Skiing
- Surfing
- Hiking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Backpacking
- Horseback Riding
High peaks east of Ely
High Schells Wilderness lies just east of Ely in eastern Nevada. Its defining terrain is a series of high, windswept peaks, many rising above 11,500 feet, with deep glaciated valleys extending below them. Snow remains on the high peaks for much of the year, making elevation and snow conditions central to trip planning rather than minor details. Designated in 2006, the wilderness offers a setting for hiking, horseback travel, and winter or spring backcountry skiing. Plan around the distinction between sheltered valley terrain and the exposed upper mountains: conditions at a lower starting point should not determine what gets packed for higher ground. Wind protection, insulating layers, and a willingness to shorten the day are sensible preparations for travel in this high mountain landscape.
Valleys, forests, and wildlife habitat
The valleys provide a different view of High Schells than its open summits. Many contain extensive aspen stands and perennial streams, while higher-elevation forests include ancient bristlecone pines and large limber pines. These changes in vegetation give valley travel its own interest without requiring a summit objective. The mountain range also supports diverse wildlife and forms an important north–south corridor of uninterrupted wild land. Keep wildlife viewing unobtrusive, give animals room to move, and avoid damaging old trees or streamside vegetation when resting or choosing a route. Although perennial streams occur in many valleys, their presence does not establish water availability along every outing. Identify likely water sources during planning, carry an appropriate reserve, and treat water collected in the backcountry.
Primitive travel and seasonal planning
Primitive trails in most valleys support hiking and equestrian travel. That description calls for more preparation than simply selecting a marked walk: carry navigation tools, establish a turnaround plan, and confirm the intended approach before leaving Ely. Backcountry skiers also explore the wilderness in winter and spring, when snow becomes part of the travel surface rather than just a feature of the distant peaks. Those trips require a separate assessment of snow conditions, weather, equipment, and group skills; a summer hiking objective is not automatically a suitable ski itinerary. For any season, choose an objective that matches the party's experience with primitive mountain travel. Confirm current access conditions and applicable visitor requirements with the Forest Service before committing to a route.
Where on earth
Satellite imagery flying in from a world view to High Schells Wilderness, United States. Use the + / − buttons, or click the map to zoom with your scroll wheel; drag to pan and pinch to zoom on touch.
Coordinates
- Decimal degrees
- 39.3348, -114.5827
- Latitude (DMS)
- 39° 20′ 5.2″ N
- Longitude (DMS)
- 114° 34′ 57.7″ W
Coordinates are an access-point reference for High Schells Wilderness, not a route. Carry a paper map and confirm trailhead or put-in access with the managing agency before you go.
Topic summary
The High Schells Wilderness contains some of the most dramatic scenery in Eastern Nevada. There are many high windswept peaks over 11,500 feet. Deep Glaciated valleys flow from the high peaks which are...
Key takeaways
- Region: NV, USA
- Country: United States
- Good for: hiking
- Coordinates: 39.335, -114.583
Intended uses
hiking
Keep planning
Popular pursuits at High Schells Wilderness
- Mountaineering
Glacier and high-route objectives with real consequence.
- Winter Camping
Cold-season travel and camp craft; layering matters more than mileage.
- Skiing
Ski-touring access when the road closes for the season.
- Surfing
Swell windows and access from camp.
- Hiking
Day miles on marked trail, with route notes and trail links below.
- Wildlife Viewing
Best light, best season, and where animals move.
Animals around High Schells Wilderness
High peaks east of Ely
High Schells Wilderness lies just east of Ely in eastern Nevada. Its defining terrain is a series of high, windswept peaks, many rising above 11,500 feet, with deep glaciated valleys extending below them. Snow remains on the high peaks for much of the year, making elevation and snow conditions central to trip planning rather than minor details. Designated in 2006, the wilderness offers a setting for hiking, horseback travel, and winter or spring backcountry skiing. Plan around the distinction between sheltered valley terrain and the exposed upper mountains: conditions at a lower starting point should not determine what gets packed for higher ground. Wind protection, insulating layers, and a willingness to shorten the day are sensible preparations for travel in this high mountain landscape.
Valleys, forests, and wildlife habitat
The valleys provide a different view of High Schells than its open summits. Many contain extensive aspen stands and perennial streams, while higher-elevation forests include ancient bristlecone pines and large limber pines. These changes in vegetation give valley travel its own interest without requiring a summit objective. The mountain range also supports diverse wildlife and forms an important north–south corridor of uninterrupted wild land. Keep wildlife viewing unobtrusive, give animals room to move, and avoid damaging old trees or streamside vegetation when resting or choosing a route. Although perennial streams occur in many valleys, their presence does not establish water availability along every outing. Identify likely water sources during planning, carry an appropriate reserve, and treat water collected in the backcountry.
Primitive travel and seasonal planning
Primitive trails in most valleys support hiking and equestrian travel. That description calls for more preparation than simply selecting a marked walk: carry navigation tools, establish a turnaround plan, and confirm the intended approach before leaving Ely. Backcountry skiers also explore the wilderness in winter and spring, when snow becomes part of the travel surface rather than just a feature of the distant peaks. Those trips require a separate assessment of snow conditions, weather, equipment, and group skills; a summer hiking objective is not automatically a suitable ski itinerary. For any season, choose an objective that matches the party's experience with primitive mountain travel. Confirm current access conditions and applicable visitor requirements with the Forest Service before committing to a route.
Route options
- Valley hiking
Use a confirmed primitive valley trail for a hiking outing among glaciated terrain. Many valleys contain aspen stands and perennial streams. This is a trip style rather than a named or measured itinerary.
- Valley equestrian travel
Horseback travel follows primitive trails in the valleys. Confirm the intended approach and trail suitability for stock before selecting an itinerary.
- Winter and spring backcountry skiing
Backcountry skiers explore the wilderness in winter and spring. Select terrain only after assessing current snow and weather conditions; no specific ski line or approach is identified here.
Sample itineraries
- Aspen Valley Day Hike · 1 day
Plan an out-and-back on a primitive valley trail among aspen stands and perennial streams. Confirm access and trail conditions with the Forest Service before choosing a valley. Set the turnaround by terrain and conditions rather than committing to a high peak.
- Valley and High-Forest Overnight · 2 days
Plan a valley-based backpack with time to explore toward higher forests of bristlecone and limber pine where conditions allow. Confirm the route, access, and camping guidance before departure. Keep the second day flexible for a return along the approach rather than assuming connecting trails exist.
Seasonal conditions
Spring
Spring; snow-dependent
High peaks remain snowy for much of the year, and backcountry skiers visit in spring. Do not assume valley trails or high approaches are snow-free. Match travel plans and equipment to current snow conditions.
Summer
Summer; verify high-elevation snow
Primitive valley trails offer hiking and equestrian travel among aspens and streams. Snow may still affect high terrain; a summer trip does not guarantee clear approaches. Windswept peaks call for warm layers even when valleys feel mild.
Fall
Fall; conditions-dependent
Aspen valleys offer a lower-elevation alternative to the high peaks. Check current weather and snow conditions before committing to higher terrain. Carry insulation and leave room to shorten the trip.
Winter
Winter; snow-dependent
Backcountry skiing is an established activity here. Snowy peaks, deep glaciated valleys, and windswept high terrain require winter travel skills and conservative route choices. Check current snow and weather information before departure.
| Season | Window | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Spring; snow-dependent | High peaks remain snowy for much of the year, and backcountry skiers visit in spring. Do not assume valley trails or high approaches are snow-free. Match travel plans and equipment to current snow conditions. |
| Summer | Summer; verify high-elevation snow | Primitive valley trails offer hiking and equestrian travel among aspens and streams. Snow may still affect high terrain; a summer trip does not guarantee clear approaches. Windswept peaks call for warm layers even when valleys feel mild. |
| Fall | Fall; conditions-dependent | Aspen valleys offer a lower-elevation alternative to the high peaks. Check current weather and snow conditions before committing to higher terrain. Carry insulation and leave room to shorten the trip. |
| Winter | Winter; snow-dependent | Backcountry skiing is an established activity here. Snowy peaks, deep glaciated valleys, and windswept high terrain require winter travel skills and conservative route choices. Check current snow and weather information before departure. |
Permits, fees & closures
Confirm current permit requirements and trip regulations with the Forest Service before visiting High Schells Wilderness.
Official source: Wilderness - Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest · Verified November 1, 2026
Hazards & regulations
- Many peaks exceed 11,500 feet. Pace high-elevation travel conservatively and descend if altitude symptoms develop.
- High peaks are snowy for much of the year; do not assume a hiking approach will be snow-free.
- Windswept peaks increase exposure to cold. Carry wind protection and turn back when conditions exceed your equipment or experience.
- Primitive valley trails require navigation preparation; do not rely on a continuous, clearly marked route.
- Deep glaciated valleys and high peaks can make travel more demanding than a map suggests. Allow time for terrain-based turnarounds.
What to pack for High Schells Wilderness
- Topographic map and compass
- Offline navigation with backup power
- Confirmed access and route information
- Windproof and waterproof shell
- Insulating layers, warm hat, and gloves
- Sun protection
- Emergency shelter and first-aid kit
- Water containers and treatment
- Footwear suited to primitive trails
- Food for the planned outing plus a reserve
- Headlamp
- Snow-travel equipment matched to current conditions
- Backcountry skis for a planned ski outing
- Additional insulation and weather protection
High Schells Wilderness FAQ
- Where is High Schells Wilderness?
- It lies just east of Ely in eastern Nevada and is managed by the Forest Service.
- What is the terrain like?
- Many windswept peaks rise above 11,500 feet. Deep glaciated valleys descend from them, with extensive aspen stands and perennial streams in many valleys. Higher forests contain ancient bristlecone and large limber pines.
- Are there developed hiking trails?
- Hikers and equestrians use primitive trails in most valleys. Plan for navigation rather than assuming developed tread or clear signage. Confirm a specific route and its access before setting out.
- Can the wilderness be visited on skis?
- Backcountry skiers explore the area in winter and spring. Choose terrain within the group's winter travel skills and check current snow and weather conditions.
- Can the mapped inventory point be used as a trailhead?
- No. The inventory point lies inside the wilderness boundary but is not a trailhead, campsite, or access point. Obtain confirmed access information before navigating to the area.
- Is water available in the valleys?
- Many valleys contain perennial streams, but that does not establish water availability along every route. Confirm sources for the intended trip, carry adequate water, and treat collected water.