A scenic OHV playground with alpine forests, ridgeline views, and year-round recreation just outside Ely. Location White Pine County Length 353 miles (Network) Difficulty Easy, Moderate, Difficult Town Ely Surface Dirt, Rock/Ledge Pets Permitted on Leash Fees No Description Ward Mountain Recreation Area offers an extensive trail network developed mostly from existing mountain roads that wind through beautiful alpine forests. The trails create a variety of interconnected loops with difficulty ranging from easy (near the campground) to more challenging routes as you gain elevation. The OHV system departs from several trailheads in Ely, climbing through sagebrush and mixed pinyon-juniper forest to reach the Ward Mountain Campground. From there, riders can follow ridgeline trails that pass through attractive aspen stands and riparian corridors with only occasional technical sections. You can also explore recent juniper chaining projects completed for wildlife habitat restoration. In addition to OHV riding, backpacking is permitted throughout the area, though no mid-mountain amenities are available. Camping & Amenities Ward Mountain Campground (managed by the US Forest Service Ely Ranger District) provides trailer sites, drinking water, pit toilets, a camp host, and group campsites. Non-motorized trail access is available inside the campground. Additional camping is available at Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park, south of Ely off Highway 93. A fun disc golf course is also located on the north side of Hwy 6 off county road 44A (follow the BLM Ward Mountain Recreation sign). Winter Recreation Ward Mountain is popular in winter for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. The Ice Plant Loop is a favorite snowmobile route, beginning on the Ward Mountain Connector Road (NF-440) and circling the north side of the mountain. Please be mindful of other trail users on shared OSV routes. Note that Ward Mountain Campground is closed in winter, though restrooms remain open (unmaintained). Ward Mountain is located about 10 miles outside of Ely, Nevada, which offers a variety of lodging, fuel, and restaurant options. Whether you're looking for a day of OHV riding, backpacking, disc golf, or winter recreation, Ward Mountain Recreation Area delivers diverse trails and beautiful scenery year-round.