
Ward Mountain
Usa, north-america
N/A
3,336 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, thrill-seekers, listen up! If you're looking for an epic off-road adventure in Nevada, Ward Mountain is calling your name. Nestled in the Egan Range, this bad boy tops out at a whopping 10,944 feet!
Think gravel, rocks, and a seriously bumpy ride. You'll definitely want a high-clearance vehicle and some solid off-roading experience to tackle this one. It's usually open from mid-May to September, weather permitting, so plan accordingly.
Be prepared for some steep climbs, and maybe even some mud if it's been raining. Oh, and if you're afraid of heights, this might not be the trail for you! But if you're up for the challenge, the views from the top are absolutely breathtaking. Get ready for some incredible scenery!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Max Elevation
- 3,336 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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