Calico Mountains Wilderness

Description:

The Calico Mountains Wilderness (64,968 acres) contains many brightly colored, twisted geologic formations. Elevations in the Wilderness range from 3,950 feet to 8,491 feet at Donnelly Peak. The majority of interest in the area is associated with the colors of the southern half of the range, where the bare rocks take on many hues of the rainbow, especially after a rain. These colors are startling and unexpected in an area where the usual grayish green tones of sage and greasewood are expected. The area*s varied topography makes for an easily achieved experience of solitude. Sagebrush is the dominant vegetation type, with saltbush and greasewood occurring at the lower elevations. Several canyons contain cottonwoods, willow and aspen stands. Wildlife that inhabits the area includes mule deer, California bighorn sheep, pronghorn antelope, chukar and kit fox.

Please follow the regulations and practice Leave No Trace / TreadLightly! principles when visiting to protect the unique natural and experiential qualities of this special area. Motorized equipment and equipment used for mechanical transport are prohibited. This includes the use of motor vehicles (including OHVs), motorized equipment, bicycles, hang gliders, wagons, carts, portage wheels, and the landing of aircraft including helicopters. Contact the agency for more information about regulations.

Motorized equipment and equipment used for mechanical transport are prohibited. This includes the use of motor vehicles (including OHVs), motorized equipment, bicycles, hang gliders, wagons, carts, portage wheels, and the landing of aircraft including helicopters. Contact the agency for more information about regulations.

Directions:

The Wilderness is located in western Humboldt and northern Pershing Counties, approximately 30 miles north of the town of Gerlach. The best access along the maintained Soldier Meadows Road that forms the eastern boundary of the Wilderness.

Address:

Black Rock Field Office

5100 East Winnemucca Blvd.

Winnemucca NV 89445

Phone:

775-623-1500

Email:

wfoweb@blm.gov

Organization:

BLM - Bureau of Land Management