Santa Rosa-Paradise Peak Wilderness

Located in the Humboldt National Forest in Nevada.

The main feature of the Santa Rosa range is the Santa Rosa-Paradise Peak Wilderness, which bisects the range's southern crest. Towering over the desert floor, the range serves as a barrier to storm fronts, trapping an unusual amount of moisture for a desert area.

The upper basins, hidden from the desert below, support large groves of aspen and a diverse plant community. Among the species easily identified are lupine, paintbrush, balsam root, peony, phlox, penstemon and leopard lily. Basque sheepherder carvings have been found dating back to 1909.

Access to the wilderness can be made through most of its canyons; roads from Highway 95 provide access to canyons on its western slope. Access to the eastern slope can be attained from Highway 290. A high clearance vehicle is required on most of these roads. There are some private lands dispersed throughout the area; posted areas should be respected.

Lye Creek Campground, on the Santa Rosa Ranger District, is located 60 miles north of Winnemucca, Nevada. Primary access to Lye Creek Campground and the Santa Rosa Mountains from Winnemucca is to go north on U.S. Highway 95 for 22 miles to the junction with State Route 290, then north on SR290 18 miles to Paradise Valley. Three miles north of Paradise Valley, heading toward Hinkey Summit, the road changes to a gravel surface. Two miles over Hinkey Summit and adjacent to Martin Creek Guard Station is the junction to Lye Creek Campground, which is a mile and a half away. Access can also be gained of Highway 95 from the north via the Canyon Creek Road. The road up Canyon Creek is marked Buckskin on Highway 95 about midway between Orovada and McDermitt. Both of these roads are steep and winding, so care should be taken when driving sedans or pulling trailers.

Twenty-six streams provide approximately 69 miles of fishable length; known species are cutthroat, Brook, German brown and rainbow trout. Good to excellent fishing can be obtained depending upon the visitors' desire to work their way up or down the stream channels. No lakes or reservoirs containing fish are within the area.

Many archaeological sites, historic mines, cabins and homesteads are found throughout the area. These cultural resources can be enjoyed as part of the recreational experience, but care should be taken to ensure they are left in the same condition as found. Archaeological and historic sites are protected from destruction and vandalism by federal and state laws. If these sites are left undisturbed, all can enjoy the same experience. Remember, some historic buildings and mines are dangerous, so THINK SAFETY!

For more information contact: The Humboldt National Forest