The Ruby Mountains

By Linda Tancs

The Ruby Mountains are a mountain range primarily located in Elko County, Nevada. The color has nothing to do with geology; during the Gold Rush days, gems were discovered that were thought to be rubies but were actually garnet. Nowadays the prize is the vistas often compared to the Swiss Alps. Its alpine peaks culminate in a maximum elevation of 11,387 feet on the summit of Ruby Dome. Accessed via Lamoille Canyon Scenic Byway, you’ll see dozens of alpine lakes, canyons, forest and wildlife. At the top of the byway you can pick up hikes of varying lengths along the Ruby Crest National Recreation Trail.