Nevada / Elko County / Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

Powerhouse Group Picnic Area

Closed — Closed for winter. The picnic area operates seasonally from May through October, weather and conditions permitting. The canyon road receives no winter maintenance.

About

Powerhouse Group Picnic Area is located at the base of Lamoille Canyon in the beautiful Ruby Mountains, part of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. Set at an elevation of 6,500 feet, the picnic area features a group site with a covered awning surrounded by a stand of shady aspen trees, with Lamoille Creek running through the area. Just 25 miles from Elko in northeastern Nevada, this facility serves as a gateway to one of Nevada's most scenic canyons. The Ruby Mountains are often called a desert island, brimming with wildlife, sparkling lakes and streams, wildflower-filled meadows, and jagged peaks. Visitors can fish for rainbow and brook trout in Lamoille Creek, explore numerous hiking and horseback riding trails that lead to alpine lakes and scenic vistas, or enjoy the Lamoille Canyon Scenic Byway for road biking and scenic driving. The area offers day use picnicking with designated sites that include picnic tables, grills, and fire pits. The facility operates seasonally from May through October, weather and conditions permitting, with no winter maintenance on the canyon road. A regular Powerhouse Picnic Area is located across Lamoille Creek and offers first-come, first-served day use sites. Vault toilets are available, but potable water is not provided on-site.

Directions

From Interstate 80, take any Elko exit. Head south on Idaho Street, then turn south on 12th Street (from the east) or 5th Street (from the west) to State Route 227. Travel 25 miles south on State Route 227 to Forest Road 660 (Lamoille Canyon Scenic Byway). The picnic area is located a short distance up Forest Road 660 at the base of the canyon.

Nearby Campgrounds