Things to Do in Selenite Mountains Wilderness Study Area

The Selenite Mountains Wilderness Study Area (WSA) is a protected region in Pershing County, Nevada. It features a diverse desert landscape with a main ridge axis of eroded granite and basaltic flows, narrow desert piedmonts, and gradual foot slopes. The area is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).

The Selenite Mountains Wilderness Study Area offers opportunities for day-hiking, backpacking, hunting, and horseback riding. Touring cycling is also possible on established roads bordering or leading into the WSA. The area provides views of vast desert playas and tall granite peaks.

Direct touring cycling within the core wilderness study area might be limited to maintain its natural character. However, established roads that border or lead into the WSA are suitable for touring cycling and bikepacking. Jungo Road, along the northern boundary, is an example of an accessible route.

Komoot offers guides for cycling in the region. An example is the guide for Traffic-free bike rides in Selenite Mountains Wilderness Study Area. These guides provide detailed routes for exploring the area.

The WSA is characterized by eroded granite and basaltic flows, with several large drainage systems. It rises from 4,200 feet (1,280 meters) near the Black Rock Desert to Selenite Peak at 7,100 feet (2,164 meters). Vegetation includes sagebrush, bunch grasses, and juniper stands at higher elevations.

The Selenite Mountains WSA is home to abundant pronghorn and provides habitat for bighorn sheep on its ridges. It also serves as a nesting area for Golden Eagles and other birds of prey. The area is a general habitat for Greater Sage-Grouse.

Selenite Peak reaches 7,100 feet (2,164 meters) within the WSA. The broader Selenite Range includes Kumiva Peak, which is the highest point in the range at 8,238 feet (2,511 meters). Other prominent peaks include Luxor Peak, Purgatory Peak, and Mt. Limbo.

No water is available within the Selenite Mountains Wilderness Study Area. Visitors should plan accordingly and carry sufficient water for their activities.

The small towns of Gerlach and Empire are situated near the Selenite Mountains Wilderness Study Area. These towns once supported gypsum mines and can serve as access points or supply stops for visitors.

General access to the Selenite Mountains Wilderness Study Area typically does not require permits. However, visitors should always check with the managing agency, the Bureau of Land Management, for any specific activity or group size regulations that may apply.

Cycling routes on bordering roads and foot slopes offer rolling to flat terrain with scattered granitic rock outcrops. The main ridge consists of eroded granite and basaltic flows. Some ridge roads are noted to offer enjoyable rides for bikepacking enthusiasts.

Official information about the Selenite Mountains Wilderness Study Area is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The BLM Winnemucca Field Office can be contacted at +17756231500. General information is available on the BLM website.