Lamoille Canyon in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest is known as the "other Yosemite." The hiking trails in Lamoille around Thomas Canyon Campground are filled with a bevy of sparkling waterfalls, crystal clear lakes and stunning mountain vistas.
The campground is located 30 miles southeast of Elko in northeastern Nevada.
Take SR 227 to Forest Road 660 (Lamoille Canyon Scenic Byway) and then drive about 8 miles on FR 660 to reach the campground. The road is a favorite for scenic drives and road bikers.
Lamoille Canyon starts at Liberty Peak which leads down to Lamoille Lake. You can stop and marvel at the views of the canyon and peaks. (Pictured - Lamoille Canyon and Thomas Peak, as seen from Verdi Peak.)
The Dollar Lakes are visible as you meander down the canyon. These lakes were created by glaciers leaving cirques behind that were filled with mountain water.
The trek is particularly lovely in the fall with large groves of yellow Aspen trees. The area is also home to many Whitebark pine trees.
When you reach Lamoille Canyon Road (part of the National Forest Scenic Byway), you can take the Road's End trailhead. Road's End will take you down to the campground.
Lush meadows surround the campground. You can reserve or find first-come-first-served camping spots. RVs are welcome but only drinking water is available. (No hookups!)
Thomas and Lamoille canyons are filled with many lovely creeks and waterfalls. You can often view beavers working on their dams which bolster the rushing creek mini-falls.
During the spring, waterfalls are particularly numerous.
If the previous winter snows are high enough, the falls can last into the summer.
You can do more than just view the amazing array of waterfalls. Fly-fishing is popular and the many creeks are filled with brook and rainbow trout. There are hiking trails of varying difficulty. (Some can be quite steep so make sure you've got a sturdy pair of hiking boots!) Horseback riders are also plentiful on the canyon trails.
Imagine waking up to these beautiful views from your tent!
Have you visited the magical waterfalls of Lamoille and Thomas Canyons? Share your experiences in the comments!
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