Some Nevadans will say, “I know a spot,” and this is the spot they mean. Kirch is a true oasis in the desert, where crystal blue waters sit pristine against a backdrop of towering mountains. Isolated enough to ward off crowds, the sagebrush shrub and wet meadows support an abundance of wildlife, ranging from waterfowl passers-by to stunning pronghorn, and including little creatures such as weasels, badgers, skunks, and bobcats. Two dozen different species of duck have been observed here, and up to 12 of those breed and raise their young in the habitat through the summer. Eagles, falcons, stilts, egrets, avocets, dowitchers, curlews, and godwits lure in birders.
But the main attraction is fishing — mostly for trout and bass, despite the refuge’s endemic species, as you’ll see in the Vegas PBS episode of “Outdoor Nevada” exploring the seemingly untouched area.
“This is such a chill way to fish,” host Connor Fields says in the episode, referring to kayaking. “Spending time on the water is a great escape, and being here makes it all the better. It’s such an amazing place. I could definitely spend a few days just doing this.”
The White River Valley was settled by Mormons in the 1870s. About 100,000 acres of the land was later owned by the ranching Adams-McGill Company, and it was sold to Nevada Fish and Game in 1959. It was then renamed for a Clark County Commissioner of the time. Its flows feed the Pahranagat Valley, continuing into the Coyote Springs Valley, and eventually meet the Muddy River, which in turn feeds into Lake Mead.
Our recommendation for those who aren’t experienced fisherpeople: Take a day trip and spend the afternoon wandering, wildlife spotting, picnicking, and soaking in the natural hot springs. There are hot springs throughout Nevada, but these are among the best (imagine Tahoe's famous clarity). Also be aware that place is a critical habitat for the endemic Mormon White River Springfish, and soak accordingly.
What: Kirch Wildlife Management Area day trip
Getting there: From Las Vegas, take U.S. 93 north for about 175 miles, then take State Route 318 north. From Ely, take U.S. 6 south for about 75 miles to SR 318.
Pro tip: Visit at sunset in the cooler months for optimal landscape views and wildlife spotting, or the hotter months to have the place to yourself.
