Mount Lewis

The rugged, mountainous terrain beckons outdoorsmen from all corners of Nevada to Mount Lewis, the tallest peak in Lander County, NV and the twelfth-most prominent peak in all of Nevada. Situated at 9,678 feet elevation with 4,280 feet prominence, Mount Lewis is located in the heart of the Shoshone Mountains about 30 minutes (14 miles) south of Battle Mountain, NV. Beholding some of the region’s most rugged outdoor recreation, explore Lewis Canyon, trout-packed streams, ideal stargazing conditions, and some of the area’s best hiking and off-roading trails.

Situated one canyon further south into the Shoshone Mountains from Crum Canyon, OHV riders will love navigating the rocky, remote off-roading trail through Lewis Canyon, which eventually switchbacks all the way up to the top of Mount Lewis. A true desert oasis, a small outcropping of trees marks the entrance of Lewis Canyon and a well-maintained, narrow gravel road. Along the way, cast a line in Lewis Creek, and be sure to keep your camera ready for all kinds of native wildlife that call the Shoshone Mountains home, including desert bighorn sheep, mule deer, all kinds of nesting raptors, coyote, mountain lion, snakes, and much more. Along the way, watch for historic mining ruins including old mill sites and other relics from the past.

If you don’t have the proper OHV required for this very rugged drive, hike through Lewis Canyon’s canopy of trees instead of driving it, hiking the gravel road all the way up to Mount Lewis’ summit. Once you reach the top of Mount Lewis, you’ll see the tallest point is found on a large outcropping of rocks, only accessible by an infamous ladder pitch to the summit, made from two ladders bolted to the rock face leading to the very top. Whether or not you drive or hike, or make it to the mountain top or the summit peak, you’re sure to be rewarded with amazing 360 views of Battle Mountain, Crescent Valley, and far beyond.

Know Before You Go

A recreationalist’s paradise, embarking upon the Shoshone Range in Lander County, Nevada should only be attempted by experienced outdoorsmen. Before heading for this remote, moderately maintained cell phone signal-free canyon drive, read up on Nevada’s Dirt Road Code and travel prepared to survive. Travel with 4×4 access, good tires and breaks, carry a full-size spare tire (and know how to change it), a paper map, more food and water than you think you’ll need, and let someone know where you’re headed and when you plan to return. For more information on Mount Lewis and Lewis Canyon, including maps, seasonal conditions, accessibility, and more, get in touch with the Nevada BLM Battle Mountain Field Office directly at (775) 635-4000.