The Rib HIll trail just outside of Ely follows a dirt road from Tonopah Canyon as it climbs to the peak of Rib Hill, culminating in breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area.
The Ward Mountain Recreation Area opposite Highway 6 from the Ward Mountain Campground also has a number of trails, though unlike the Ward Mountain area which lies on National Forest land, the area around Tonopah Canyon sits on BLM land and contains less signage and maintenance. However those willing to explore this area will find a number of loop trails and hill climbs.
Rib Hill follows a rough gravel service road that begins climbing immediately and heads up a steady incline, gaining about 750' in elevation over the course of 2.8 miles. The lower portion of the trail stays enclosed in brush, but as it hits the upper portions, views of the surrounding landscapes open up, including views of Ward Mountain which dominates the landscape to the southeast, the town of McGill in the distance to the northeast, and the immensely large Robinson pit mine operations downslope to the northwest.
Radio towers sit at the top, and the remoteness of the location colors the feeling of topping out after this climb. There's no shade, no amenities, nothing even marks the trail/road, so have your navigation set before heading off here.
The elevation and remoteness of the roads mean that this path might be snowy or muddy, depending on recent conditions.
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