Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
20.00 ft (6.10 m)
Trail type
Loop
Distance
2.20 mi (3.54 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

The East Pond Loop is one of numerous walking trails in the 17,700+ acre Mason Valley Wildlife Management Area.

Circling one of several ponds along the Walker River floodplain, this trail follows a flat dirt path as it passes by open meadows, shaded walkways, and crosses between wetlands areas and ponds butting up against either side of the trail.

The wildlife management area is home to numerous species of geese, fowl and birds, many of which can often be seen or heard punctuating the air in this mostly quiet corner of Lyon County.

Several other walkways and paths branch off from the path, however walkways may be cut off by canals and waterways. The East Pond Loop traces a section of the preserve's dirt road before joining a double track closed to unofficial vehicles. The trail is a mix of soft and hard dirt.

A vault toilet is located beside Hinkson Slough near the parking area. There are no other amenities located along the hike.

Seasonal closures of sections of the wildlife management area as well as permitted hunting dates may affect your experience here. Visit the Nevada Department of Wildlife website and scroll to Mason Valley Wildlife Management Area for updated regulations.

 

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Winter
Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Low

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Wide views.

Cons

Portion of trail is along an active road. Hunting takes place occasionally.

Trailhead Elevation

4,335.00 ft (1,321.31 m)

Highest point

4,345.00 ft (1,324.36 m)

Features

Vault toilet
Near lake or river
Wildlife
Fishing
Big vistas
Family friendly
Bird watching

Typically multi-day

No

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Adventures

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Fort Churchill State Historic Park
Walker River State Recreation Area
Fort Churchill State Historic Park

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