This Secluded Nevada Wilderness Is Truly Awe Inspiring And You’ll Want To Visit
Water Canyon rises almost 2,000 feet above the town of Winnemucca in Humboldt County where it is the county seat and only incorporated city. Named for a 19th-century Paiute Chief, Winnemucca translates to “one moccasin.” Secluded Water Canyon is both picturesque and rugged with areas of aspen and cottonwood trees rising high above the stream at the bottom of the canyon. This gorgeous secluded Nevada wilderness is perfect for picnicking, biking, hiking, nature viewing, photography, and limited ATV-ing on the few primitive roads leading up into the Sonoma Mountains.
Water Canyon is a mere stone's throw from the town of Winnemucca. There's the town in the distance.
The area is referred to by Bureau of Land Management (BLM) staff as "Little Lamoille" in reference to the equally scenic Lamoille Canyon in the Ruby Mountains.
Because the roads within the recreation area are made of dirt, visitors must use four-wheel-drive vehicles to travel beyond the main recreation area. Consequently, roads are only passable in dry weather and are typically snow-covered during the winter.
Mountain biking enthusiasts can enjoy a four-mile trail in Water Canyon that leads to the 40-mile long Bloody Shins Trail System in the Santa Rosa-Paradise Peak Wilderness.
This riparian area is lush with flora and fauna. Among the frequently-observed indigenous species include mule deer, coyotes, Chukar partridges, and California quail. Plant life includes many species that thrive in the harsh Nevada desert thanks to the year-round water supply. These include aspen, cottonwood, willow, wild rose, and sagebrush.
Water Canyon Campground provides a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the "real" world. Vault bathrooms, trash receptacles, picnic tables, and fire rings are plentiful. Officially, guests are only permitted to stay for three nights in a row; however, if it's not busy then people have been known to stay a bit longer. Primitive camping is also available away from the main road.
Water Canyon Recreation Area is 4.5 miles southeast of Winnemucca on Water Canyon Road. For more information about this scenic secluded Nevada wilderness, please call (775) 623-1500.
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