Rural Northern Nevada is a land of wide-open skies, rugged mountain ranges, and sweeping sagebrush valleys, and it’s teeming with wildlife. From desert canyons to alpine lakes, the counties of Elko, Humboldt, Lander, Pershing, and Eureka offer some of the best opportunities in the state to observe animals in their natural habitats. Whether you’re an avid wildlife watcher or just love spotting animals while out on the trail, these species and viewing spots are sure to inspire your next outdoor adventure.
In Elko County, the Ruby Mountains and Jarbidge Wilderness offer a mix of high-elevation forests and rolling valleys where wildlife thrives. Rocky Mountain elk roam mountain meadows, mule deer graze in agricultural fields, and golden eagles soar above open country. In the high rocky slopes of the Rubies, mountain goats and the rare Himalayan snowcock can sometimes be spotted. Lamoille Canyon Scenic Byway is a must-visit, offering both roadside views and hiking opportunities for spotting wildlife.
Humboldt County’s landscape of sagebrush steppe and shimmering reservoirs is home to pronghorn antelope, iconic wild horse herds, and waterfowl that gather at Rye Patch Reservoir and nearby wetlands. In spring, sage-grouse perform their unique courtship dances on open leks. For more remote wildlife encounters, Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge offers expansive high desert habitat for pronghorn, raptors, and other species.
Lander County’s secluded mountain ranges and hidden springs provide a haven for wildlife that prefers solitude. Bighorn sheep scale rocky slopes, coyotes and foxes roam the open country, and raptors such as red-tailed hawks and kestrels patrol the skies. The Toiyabe Range offers breathtaking scenery along with excellent opportunities for wildlife photography.
In Pershing County, the stark beauty of desert basins and reservoirs hides a surprising abundance of life. Great Basin rattlesnakes and lizards thrive in hot, dry conditions, while pelicans, herons, and other waterbirds gather at Rye Patch State Recreation Area. Pronghorn and mule deer are frequently spotted crossing the open valleys, especially in the early morning or late evening.
Eureka County’s wide-open spaces, a mix of high desert and mountain ranges, host jackrabbits, cottontails, and an array of raptors, including golden eagles, prairie falcons, and ferruginous hawks. Mule deer and elk are common along the edges of mountain ranges, particularly near water sources. The Diamond Mountains are a great location for big game and bird sightings.
No matter which county you explore, the key to successful wildlife viewing is patience and respect. Go early or late when animals are most active, use binoculars or spotting scopes to maintain a safe distance, and follow Leave No Trace principles to protect habitats. From soaring eagles over vast valleys to bighorn sheep perched high on cliffs, rural Northern Nevada offers unforgettable encounters with the wild. Grab your binoculars, head out to these special places, and discover the incredible creatures that call our region home.
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