G Loop

The G Loop is one of the trails accessible from Ward Mountain Campground outside of Ely.

Making up one of the trails within the Ward Mountain Recreation Area, G Loop is a 5.1 mile loop with about 700 feet in total elevation gain, making it the lengthiest and hardest single loop path immediately accessible from the campground trailhead.

The single track heads through rolling juniper-dotted mountainside, opening to large views across the surrounding valley and neighboring mountains. The trail itself has minimal manmade features - a few berms on the switchbacks nearing the high point - and instead just winds and meanders through the landscape, tracing the hillside at a mostly gradual grade with a chorus of bird song audible at what feels like a path much further into the forest than it actually lies. 

Taking the loop in a clockwise direction will lead to a longer steadier climb, while following the course in a counterclockwise direction gives a shorter but steeper uphill.

Those wanting to tack on more distance can combine this ride with the adjacent H Loop or K Loop trails, or can fork off onto the Ice Plant Trail Connector.

Parking is available at a trailhead lot inside Ward Mountain Campground. A vault toilet, trail map, and water (not available in the off-season) are all located at the trailhead.