Nevada’s Little-Known ‘Moon Rocks’ Landscape Is An Otherworldly Geologic Wonder
You never know what type of wacky and unique landscapes you’ll come across during your Nevada adventures. After all, our state is home to a wide range of scenery, including everything from mountaintops to flat desert and everything in between. Discovering these beautiful landscapes is all part of the Nevada experience, and that’s why a visit to a little-known area in our state simply referred to as “Moon Rocks” is a must for adventurers. This bizarre geologic wonder will leave you in awe of its otherworldly beauty. Check it out:
Located in Washoe County is an area that's informally called "Moon Rocks" and it's just as otherworldly as it sounds. The bizarre landscape is a true geologic wonder and it's just begging to be explored.
More officially known as the Hungry Valley Recreational Area, this landscape really does resemble something from a different planet. Boasting giant outcroppings of rounded granite rocks, the name "Moon Rocks" definitely seems appropriate for the scenery!
It may seem like a scene from a different planet, but these bizarre rock formations are the result of geological erosion at work. The iconic rounded characteristic of the rocks is caused by something called spheroidal weathering, which is when water seeps into the rock and starts to erode the granite's hard corners.
The best way to get to Moon Rocks is by taking the Pyramid Highway (Route 445) north of Reno. Stay left on the highway to Winnemucca Ranch Road. You'll take Winnemucca Ranch until you reach a dirt road, marked by a sign for Hungry Valley Recreational Access, which will take you to the area.
Boasting tons of trails and dirt roads, Moon Rocks is a popular play area for off-roading and rock crawling. If you've got an ATV or another high off-road vehicle, the gigantic outcroppings are like heaven!
There is no entrance fee to this area and camping is free, but keep in mind that this is truly the "middle of nowhere." Be sure to take the appropriate precautions and bring enough water, food, and fuel for your time here.
When visiting any Nevada public land, remember to tread lightly and leave no trace. The area's remoteness and pristine beauty make it a spectacular adventure destination, and we'd love to keep it that way for years to come!
