The Best Off-Road Trails Within 100 Miles of Yerington, Nevada

If you live in Yerington, you know that the "Battle Born" spirit isn't just a motto—it’s a lifestyle. It’s about grit, independence, and a deep appreciation for the high desert freedom that sits right in our backyard. While Mason Valley is famous for its agriculture and copper, Lyon County is also the perfect basecamp for some of the best off-roading in the American West.

At Battle Born Clothing, we know you work hard. When it’s time to clock out, you want to know exactly where to take your rig. Whether you drive a built rock crawler, a UTV, or a stock 4x4 truck, adventure is less than a tank of gas away.

Here are our top 10 picks for off-road trails within 100 miles of Yerington.

1. Wilson Canyon Recreation Area

Distance: ~13 miles from Yerington Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Why It’s a Local Favorite

You can’t make a list like this without starting with the pride of Lyon County. Just a quick hop down Hwy 208 towards Smith Valley, Wilson Canyon offers a stunning mix of Walker River views and vibrant red rock cliffs.

What to Expect

This is the perfect spot for a Sunday afternoon cruise or a family dirt bike ride. There are plenty of sandy washes and hill climbs, and it’s a great spot to cool off by the river after a dusty ride.

2. Pine Nut Mountains (Sunrise Pass)

Distance: ~25 miles (via Wabuska/pavement to dirt access) Difficulty: Moderate

A Historic Route

The Pine Nut range is the massive distinctive ridgeline separating us from Carson City. While you can access it from many points, Sunrise Pass Road offers a historic route through the mountains with plenty of spur trails to explore.

Wildlife Watch

Keep your eyes peeled for wild horses. The Pine Nuts are one of the best places in the state to see mustangs running free in their natural habitat.

3. Desert Creek Loop

Distance: ~30 miles Difficulty: Moderate

High Desert Escape

Head south past Smith Valley to find this gem. The trail follows Desert Creek and offers a diverse landscape of water crossings, narrow canyons, and high-desert pines.

Best Time to Go

Spring and early summer are ideal here when the creek is flowing and the greenery pops against the desert backdrop. It feels miles away from civilization without requiring a long haul to get there.

4. Sand Mountain Recreation Area

Distance: ~80 miles Difficulty: Varied (Sand/Dunes)

The Adrenaline Rush

Located just past Fallon off Hwy 50 (The Loneliest Road in America), this singing sand dune is legendary. Driving on sand requires a different skillset—and paddle tires help—but there’s nothing like the rush of bowling a massive dune.

Who It’s For

This is a paradise for ATV, UTV, and dirt bike enthusiasts. If you like going fast and catching air, Sand Mountain is your playground.

5. Old Como Road

Distance: ~35 miles (to Dayton start) Difficulty: Moderate to Rocky

Drive Through History

Start near Dayton and climb your way up to the historic ghost town of Como. The trail can get rocky and rugged, offering sweeping views of the Carson Valley and the Pine Nut Mountains.

The View

At the summit, you get a bird's eye view of the vast Nevada landscape. The old mining remnants are a cool reminder of our state's boom-or-bust past.

6. Johnson Lane OHV Area

Distance: ~50 miles Difficulty: Easy to Extreme

The Network

Just north of Minden, this area is a massive network of sandy tracks that lead up into steep, technical hill climbs in the Pine Nuts. It caters to everyone from first-timers to serious rock crawling pros.

Accessibility

Because of its proximity to Hwy 395, it’s a great spot for a quick trip. You can spend an hour or a whole weekend exploring the maze of trails here.

7. Prison Hill Recreation Area

Distance: ~60 miles Difficulty: Difficult (Technical Rock Crawling)

Test Your Rig

Located in Carson City, this is where you go to test your suspension flex and lockers. The designated OHV area features large granite boulders and steep ledges that will challenge even lifted Jeeps and buggies.

The Challenge

If you want to see what your vehicle is really capable of, Prison Hill is the test track. It’s technical, slow-going, and incredibly rewarding.

8. Genoa Peak Trail

Distance: ~70 miles Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

The Best View in Nevada

Want to see Lake Tahoe without the traffic? This trail takes you high above the lake. It’s a seasonal trail (closed in winter), but in the summer, it offers panoramic views of Tahoe on one side and the Carson Valley on the other.

Photo Op

There is no better place to park your truck and watch the sunset. It’s one of the most photogenic trails in the entire region.

9. Moon Rocks (Hungry Valley)

Distance: ~95 miles Difficulty: Moderate to Expert

An Alien Landscape

Just north of Reno, this place looks like another planet. The giant granite formations offer "sticky" traction for rock crawlers, while the surrounding high desert is wide open for desert racing.

Why Go?

It’s essentially a giant rock skatepark for trucks and buggies. It’s a bit of a drive from Yerington, but absolutely worth it for the unique terrain.

10. The Rubicon Trail (Loon Lake/Tahoe Side)

Distance: ~85 miles (to the trailhead) Difficulty: Expert (Badge of Honor)

The Holy Grail

Okay, we are pushing the 100-mile radius, but it’s the Rubicon. It is the most famous off-road trail in the world. It’s relentless, unforgiving, and beautiful.

Warning

Do not attempt this alone or in a stock vehicle. This is a bucket-list trail that requires preparation, recovery gear, and experience.

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Gear Up Before You Go

Nevada trails are tough, and they demand respect. Always tread lightly, pack out what you pack in, and never ride alone.

Before you hit the dirt, make sure you're rep'ing your roots. Stop by Battle Born Clothing at 3 Pebble Beach Dr in Yerington or browse our collections online. Whether you need a custom hoodie for those chilly desert nights or a hat to keep the sun off while you spot a line, we’ve got the gear that’s as Battle Born as you are.