Text size: A | A | A  [Print]

Introduction

The United States Congress designated the Quinn Canyon Wilderness (map) in 1989 and it now has a total of 26,310 acres. All of this wilderness is located in Nevada and is managed by the Forest Service.

Description

Extreme isolation defines Quinn Canyon, a remote central Nevada wilderness. From the main ridgeline of the area, cresting at more than 10,000 feet, many smaller ridges and narrow canyons extend out east and west. In the V-shaped drainages, snowmelt along with summer rains collect in four year-round streams. Several springs usually provide water. From pinion pine and juniper, the vegetation gives way to sagebrush with scattered white fir, aspen, and mahogany higher up. Small stands of bristlecone pine can be found here, too. Mule deer move into the higher elevations in summer.

About 20.8 miles of trails in poor to very poor condition access the area and receive light or no use. Rough hiking on the Little Cherry Trail, the only path in fair condition, will lead you to the 10-mile Hooper Canyon Trail, which offers a semi-loop through the Wilderness that must be connected by shuttle.

Planning to Visit the Quinn Canyon Wilderness?

• Print a fact sheet
• General things to consider when visiting any wilderness
• Regulations
• Contact the Forest Service

Leave No Trace

How to follow the seven standard Leave No Trace principles differs in different parts of the country (desert vs. Rocky Mountains). Click on any of the principles listed below to learn more about how they apply in the Quinn Canyon Wilderness.

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
4. Leave What You Find
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
6. Respect Wildlife
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

For more information on Leave No Trace, Visit the Leave No Trace, Inc. website.