The Ruby Crest Trail is located in the Ruby Mountains outside of Elko, NV. For logistical reasons, we decided to hike the 40 miles southbound, turn around, and hike back to the car northbound. It took us five days in mid-September (2023). Most of the trail is easy to follow with a lot of elevation gain and loss.

We enjoyed the diversity of the Ruby Mountains. Big glaciated peaks, beautiful alpine lakes, views of the desert floor below, and wide open grassy tundra. We did not find any rubies!

It is an awesome trail if you find yourself in the area, which is how we ended up hiking it! Elko, NV has everything you need to gather supplies for the hike. Liberty Lake (on the Ruby Crest Trail) is also accessible as a day hike outside of town via Lamoille Canyon.