Elko, Nevada is an ideal year-round recreation destination. The town is situated in the Northeast portion of the state, cradled in the majestic desert foothills of the Ruby Mountains at an elevation of 5000 ft. In summer, excellent fishing, camping, mountain biking, horseback riding, off-roading, rock climbing, hunting, and other activities are easily within reach. In winter, visitors can enjoy snowmobiling, alpine skiing, ice fishing, cross country skiing, ice climbing, and more.

If you’re in the area for fishing during the warmer months, try South Fork Lake, only 16 miles from town. The lake is popular for trout and bass fishing as well as occasional catfish. Try the stream coming in and out of the lake for additional angling opportunities. If you’re here in winter months, productive ice fishing for trout and yellow perch can be found 70 miles north of town at Wildhorse Reservoir.

For years Elko has been a well kept secret for rock climbers. Lamoille Canyon in the Ruby Mountains, just 25 miles from town, offers many new and well established climbing routes, with many remaining unexplored climbs. In winter the canyon has dozens of frozen waterfalls for ice climbers of all experience levels. Enjoy these amazing climbs before the secret is out.

If you’re in town during summer with your mountain bike, the Hamilton Stage Road Loop just outside of Elko offers scenic views of the town and the Oil Shale Mine as well as side trails to various canyons. Big Bend/Sunflower Flat, 80 miles from Elko, has a variety of trails that appeal to serious mountain bikers and beginners. In winter the SnoBowl Ski area is easily accessible just 5 miles from town, and seasoned skiers can even be whisked away to the peaks of the Ruby Mountains for backcountry powder. Elko is also an ideal hub for snowmobilers to access renowned trails in places like Wild Horse Reservoir, Gold Creek, Merrit Mountain, Independence Mountains, and many other areas.

Elko, Nevada is an all season destination for recreation lovers who don’t want to fight the crowds. Visit before too many make this discovery. Elko is easily accessible on Interstate Highway 80 about 100 miles west of the Utah border.