Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
30.00 ft (9.14 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
1.00 mi (1.61 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 Torrance Ranch Preserve is an area under the management of the Nature Conservancy undergoing work to turn fhe former ranch property into an educational area and network of trails for visitors to view and learn about the Amargosa River and local wildlife.

Totaling 1 mile in trails, with plans for an additional path at a future point, the trails inside the preserve begin at a shaded area with picnic benches and an informational kiosk. From here, the trail forks to a looped boardwalk path that passes atop a wetlands ecosystem and some of the flowing springs that make up the source of the Amargosa River. With the long term work to rehabilitate the area into its natural form, the preserve has attracted migratory and nesting birds, which can be viewed from the benches set out along the boardwalk route.

The other trail follows an abandoned roadbed to the remains of an old miner's cabin, beneath which sits a small emerald clear pool that is home to a population of a subspecies of speckled dace which reside only in the waters around the Oasis Valley area. Though there is currently little improvement around the cabin and pond area, the clear waters teeming with life set beneath a landscape of banded stone making up the surrounding mountainous landscape provide a glimpse into the ecological comlplexity in the area.

Accessing the area requires a short drive down a well graded gravel road. There are no bathrooms, water or trash located at the trailhead, however there are shaded benches. Dogs are permitted on leash.

Entering the area requires passing through a gate. Please close the gate behind you. The Torrance Ranch Preserve is open for day use only.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Fall
Summer

Congestion

Low

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Beautiful scenery. Shaded. No crowds.

Trailhead Elevation

3,660.00 ft (1,115.57 m)

Highest point

3,685.00 ft (1,123.19 m)

Features

Near lake or river
Historically significant
Wildlife
Family friendly
Bird watching

Typically multi-day

No

Permit required

No

Location

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