Ruby Crest Lakes Loop

This loop is considered a difficult hike. While the exact duration depends on your pace and stops, komoot estimates it takes approximately 5.5 hours of active hiking time to complete the 16.5 km route. Plan for a full day or consider an overnight trip to fully enjoy the scenery.

The terrain is diverse and challenging, characteristic of 'Nevada's Alps'. You'll traverse glacier-carved cirques, granite alpine areas, and high desert sections. Expect steep slopes, ridgelines with panoramic views, rolling grasslands, and serene pine and aspen groves. Snow can persist in higher elevations until July, potentially requiring microspikes early in the season.

The Ruby Crest Lakes Loop offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for mountain goats, bighorn sheep, mule deer, and even the elusive Himalayan snowcock. In season, the slopes are adorned with a variety of wildflowers, adding vibrant color to the rugged landscape.

The loop is renowned for its stunning alpine lakes. You'll pass by beautiful spots such as Liberty Lake, Favre Lake, and Castle Lake. Many other pristine lakes like Dollar, Lamoille, Island, and Snow Lakes are also in the vicinity. The trail also offers expansive views of the Ruby Valley, Mahogany and Long Canyons, and the South Fork Reservoir.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on trails within the Ruby Mountains Wilderness. However, it's crucial to keep them on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers. Always pack out all waste.

As of current information, there are typically no specific permits required for day hiking the Ruby Crest Lakes Loop, nor are there entrance fees for the Ruby Mountains Wilderness area itself. However, it's always wise to check with the local Forest Service office (Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest) for the most up-to-date regulations, especially for overnight stays or group sizes.

Specific trailhead parking information can vary depending on where you choose to start the loop. Common access points are often found near Lamoille Canyon. It's recommended to research the specific trailhead you plan to use for details on parking availability and any potential restrictions. Arriving early is often advisable, especially during peak season.

The best time to hike the Ruby Crest Lakes Loop is typically from late July through September. Earlier in the season, snow can persist at higher elevations, making sections challenging or impassable without proper gear like microspikes. By late summer, the snow has usually melted, and the weather is generally more stable, though afternoon thunderstorms can occur.

While the trail passes many lakes, there are sections, particularly on exposed ridgelines, where water sources are scarce. Some stretches can extend up to 14 miles without reliable water. It is critical to carry sufficient water for your entire hike and consider a water filter or purification tablets for refilling from alpine lakes if necessary.

Yes, the Ruby Crest Lakes Loop utilizes significant portions of the Ruby Crest National Recreation Trail. It also incorporates sections of the Favre Lake Trail #52, Lamoille Stock Trail, and Castle Lake Trail #38, offering a comprehensive experience of the Ruby Mountains.

The Ruby Crest Lakes Loop is generally considered a difficult or advanced hike. It involves significant elevation changes, traverses elevations above 10,000 feet, and includes steep climbs and descents. Hikers should be well-prepared with appropriate gear, navigation skills, and a good level of physical fitness. It is not recommended for beginners.