High Schells Wilderness is a wilderness area located in Eastern Nevada, approximately 10 miles east of Ely. Covering 121,497 acres (49,168 ha) within the Schell Creek Range, this region is characterized by high, windswept peaks, deep glaciated valleys, and diverse forest types. The terrain features elevations over 11,500 feet, including North Schell Peak at 11,880 feet, offering varied landscapes for several sports like hiking. Its rugged, undeveloped character provides opportunities for solitude amidst striking natural features.
7
Routes
5
(1)
Average rating
12
People visited

4
hikers
8.02km
02:18
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

2
hikers
9.35km
02:53
370m
370m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

1
hikers
11.1km
06:28
950m
950m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

5.81km
01:36
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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High Schells Wilderness offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and horseback riding. The area features primitive trails that traverse diverse ecosystems. Komoot lists 1 route for hiking in the region.
Popular hiking trails include South Fork Timber Creek, North Fork Timber Creek, North Fork Cleve Creek, and Kolcheck. The route from Timber Creek Campground to North Schell Peak also offers a challenging experience. For more information, consult the Hiking in High Schells Wilderness guide.
Yes, High Schells Wilderness offers challenging hikes with significant elevation gain. Trails like Kolcheck feature approximately 3,277 feet (999 meters) of elevation gain. The route from Timber Creek Campground to North Schell Peak is also considered strenuous.
The wilderness provides options for various skill levels, including easier walks. Many trails follow perennial streams and pass through aspen forests, offering less strenuous experiences. Specific easy routes are not detailed in the provided information, but options exist.
The wilderness features high, windswept peaks over 11,500 feet, including North Schell Peak at 11,880 feet. Visitors can observe ancient Bristlecone pines, glaciated valleys, perennial streams, and dramatic limestone cliffs. The terrain also includes rimrock and talus slopes.
High Schells Wilderness supports diverse wildlife, including elk, mule deer, mountain lions, and bighorn sheep. Golden eagles can be seen soaring, and perennial streams are home to various trout species. Riparian areas provide habitat for blue grouse, sage grouse, and chukar.
The terrain is characterized by rugged mountains, deep glaciated valleys, and diverse forest types. Elevations range significantly, with peaks exceeding 11,500 feet. Forest types transition from Bristlecone pines at higher elevations to piñon pine and juniper zones lower down.
The highest point within High Schells Wilderness is North Schell Peak, which reaches an elevation of 11,880 feet. This peak is part of the Schell Creek Range, which defines much of the wilderness area's topography.
High Schells Wilderness has attracted 12 visitors on komoot. The 1 route listed for hiking in the area has an average rating of 5.0 out of 5 stars. This indicates a high level of satisfaction among users who have explored the region.
Komoot offers a guide titled Hiking in High Schells Wilderness. This guide provides detailed information and routes for exploring the area's trails. It is a valuable resource for planning outdoor adventures in the region.
High Schells Wilderness is managed by the U.S. Forest Service as part of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. Information can be found on the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest website. The local Ely Ranger District can be reached by phone at (775) 289-3031.
High Schells Wilderness covers an area of 121,497 acres (49,168 hectares). It is situated within the Schell Creek Range in Eastern Nevada. This extensive area provides a rugged and undeveloped environment for outdoor recreation.

