Ophir Peak and Mount Davidson are both reached by a single trail that climbs out of Virginia City and into the mountains on a rough four-wheel drive road. Ophir Peak sits at the top of a 1.1-mile climb up steep and loose rock. From the top of the peak one has panoramic views over Washoe Valley and Reno that extend from Freel Peak, the highest summit in the Tahoe mountain basin, to Mount Rose and over to the mountains that make up Reno's north valleys.
The trail levels out into rolling hills after Ophir Peak, revealing signs of old mining activity in the hills and possibly sightings of the wild horses that live in these hills.
Mount Davidson, the highest point in Storey County, requires an additional 1.5 miles of walking and 325 feet more elevation gain after passing Ophir Peak.
From the summit of Mount Davidson you'll have views of almost the entirety of Virginia City stretching down to Gold Hill and Silver City and further east to Dayton and the basin mountains cascading beyond. After reaching the summit, turn around and proceed the 2.6 miles back down the four-wheel drive road to the trailhead.
Parking for this hike is off an unsigned paved road. The trailhead contains no water or facilities of any kind, so plan on carrying water and wind protection for this hike. Also, note that there are several open mine shafts near this trail. Mines in this area are prone to gaseous air and especially prone to collapse. Do not enter any of the private open shafts.
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