Mountain Adventures at Mount Moriah
Adventure Destination

Mountain Adventures at Mount Moriah

Explore the stunning peaks of Mount Moriah in Nevada's Great Basin. Enjoy hiking through diverse ecosystems and discovering ancient bristlecone pines. Perfect for solitude seekers looking to connect with nature.

Hiking7.8/10Moderate
Photo Gallery

Category

Hiking

Typical Duration

2-4 hours

Difficulty

Moderate

About This Adventure Destination

Mount Moriah rises prominently in White Pine County, Nevada, as the highest peak in the Snake Range outside Great Basin National Park. Located within a largely untouched wilderness, this mountain captivates visitors with its rugged beauty and expansive views. Its unique setting offers a rare chance to experience solitude amid contrasting ecosystems—from dense forests near the base to arid high desert terrain closer to the summit.

Key highlights include the Moriah Table, a broad, flat area near 11,000 feet elevation, edged by ancient bristlecone pines, known as some of the world's oldest living trees. These swooping, weathered pines frame the landscape, giving the area a feeling of deep age and endurance. Wildlife sightings are common here, with mule deer, elk, and diverse bird species present. The summit offers sweeping panoramas reaching into neighboring Utah and across Nevada’s Great Basin, revealing the vastness of the region.

Beyond natural wonders, Mount Moriah holds cultural importance for the Shoshone people, with several trails leading to locations regarded as sacred. Visitors often speak of an intense, almost spiritual atmosphere felt near the south slopes, adding an intriguing layer of local tradition and mystery.

Whether reaching the summit via the more accessible Big Canyon Trail from the northwest or the longer eastern approaches that include Hendry's or Hampton Creeks, this mountain provides rewarding experiences for hikers and nature lovers seeking both challenge and serenity. The rugged access roads and remote surroundings maintain Mount Moriah’s character as a standout destination for those looking to connect with Nevada’s high desert wilderness.


Editorial Assessment

Mount Moriah offers stunning natural beauty and adventure opportunities but is less known compared to other iconic natural landmarks, making it a hidden gem for those seeking solitude in nature.

Mountain Adventures at Mount Moriah

Adventure Guide to Mountain Adventures at Mount Moriah

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1. Summit Hiking via Big Canyon Trail

  • What makes it special:

    The shortest and most popular route to Mount Moriah’s summit, offering steady elevation gain with rewarding views of the Great Basin.

  • Key features:

    Well-marked trail, bristlecone pine groves, sweeping views at the peak.

  • Local Insight:

    The trailhead requires driving on rough 4WD roads, so high-clearance vehicles are recommended. The western approach is rugged but quicker than eastern routes.

  • Visitor Tips:

    Visit from late spring to early fall for optimal weather; bring plenty of water, layered clothing, and hiking poles for the steep sections.

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2. Eastern Approach via Hendry’s or Hampton Creek

  • What makes it special:

    Longer, more remote trail options that pass through diverse ecosystems, providing solitude and chances to see wildlife like elk and mule deer.

  • Key features:

    Pristine creek crossings, varied terrain from forest to high desert.

  • Local Insight:

    These routes require endurance and preparation but offer a quieter alternative to the main trail.

  • Visitor Tips:

    Start early in the day, carry a detailed topographic map, and be prepared for cooler temperatures at higher elevations.

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3. Camping Near Moriah Table

  • What makes it special:

    Flat, open terrain near 11,000 feet, surrounded by ancient bristlecone pines, ideal for star-gazing and peaceful nights.

  • Key features:

    Secluded campsites with breathtaking mountain views and access to hiking trails.

  • Local Insight:

    Campsites are primitive with no facilities; pack out all waste and respect local conservation rules.

  • Visitor Tips:

    Reserve permits may be required; bring warm gear for nighttime, insect repellent for summer, and sufficient food and water supplies.

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Getting There

  • Details:

    From Ely, Nevada, drive northeast on State Route 487 and then take local 4WD access roads toward the Big Canyon Trailhead (~1.5 hours total). The eastern trails require additional travel on less developed roads and more time on foot. Mount Moriah promises adventure and reflection within Nevada’s remote mountain landscape.

Reviews

M
Maxton Caplanides11 months ago

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

J
jackie perkinsa year ago

Getting to the top and back was one of the hardest hikes I've ever done. But so worth it one you're at the top. There aren't words to describe this adventure.

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Knight Taylora year ago

My favorite place on planet earth especially during the fall and winter

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Ben “Benny bass” C2 years ago

Had a close encounter with of the 4th/5th kind here and am convinced there is some type of portal on or near the south slope that faces towards sacremento pass. beautiful area beautiful mountains. Extremely high energy. The place exudes a type of ancestral knowledge so profound.

O
Otto De Groff6 years ago

This is an amazing mountain. It is the highest point in the Snake Range outside of Great Basin National Park. The summit is accessible from the northwest via the Big Canyon trail, and from the east via either Hendry's Creek or Hampton Creek. Approaches from the east are longer, but the western approach involves driving on rough 4wd roads to reach the wilderness boundary. To the north of the summit lies the Moriah Table, a broad flat expanse at 11,000 feet. Bristlecone Pines grow around the Table's edges, and especially impressive groves lie at the southeast side, near Moriah's summit slopes. Views from the summit are great, into Utah to the east and Nevada to the west. This is a great, isolated area of the Great Basin.

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