When you think about Nevada wildlife, you probably think about bighorn sheep, wild horses, Devils Hole pupfish, or elk. But on this episode of “Outdoor Nevada,” host Connor Fields wanders into the Jarbidge Wilderness in search of one of the state’s newest residents: moose.
Normally at home in the deep woods and wetlands of Canada, and states such as Alaska and Minnesota, moose populations have grown in recent years and extended their habitat south to include Utah and Nevada. According to the Nevada Department of Wildlife, more than 100 moose reside in the extreme northern part of the state. And while the state’s moose population is growing, they’re still a pretty rare site.
“Moose are the largest game species we have in Nevada. They're black, they're big, [so] you're like, ‘Oh, I'll see one,’” said Kari Huebner, a retired biologist from the Nevada Department of Wildlife. “But I’ve been humbled so many times.”
Huebner says she’s gone to find moose whose tracking collars indicate they’re in, say, an Aspen stand or willow patch, only to be disappointed. “So, you go in and you'll be doggone if you can't pick them out. … It can hide pretty well.”
The Jarbidge Wilderness is an area where moose are making themselves at home. Tucked away in the far northeastern reaches of the state, this area was designated as the Silver State’s first wilderness in 1964 and encompasses more than 100,000 acres of thick alpine forests, rugged peaks, sweeping basins, and river-cut gorges. It also boasts amazing hiking, camping, backpacking, fishing, and hunting opportunities.
Glimpse a Moose: Jarbidge Wilderness
Getting There: From Las Vegas, take I-15 north toward Salt Lake City. Use Exit 64 to take US-93 North for 85 miles. Turn left onto NV-318 and continue north for another 111 miles until the road ends. Turn right onto US-6 and drive towards Ely. Once in town, you’ll make a left onto Great Basin Boulevard and then a right on US-93 (Aultman Street) for roughly 200 miles. Be sure to take the left when US-93 and Alt US-93. Once you’re a few miles into Idaho, you should take a left onto 2000 E before taking another left onto Three Creek Road. Continue for another 55 miles. The road will change names a couple of times as you drive past the community of Murphy Hot Springs and back into Nevada. This should put you squarely into the Jarbidge community.
Distance From Las Vegas: 525 miles (about 9 hours)
Equipment Needed: A well-maintained vehicle with all-wheel drive, seasonally appropriate hiking and camping gear, and vast stores of patience if on the search for moose.
Pro Tip: Do not attempt this trip during the winter. They don’t call it the Jarbidge Wilderness for nothing. There are no paved roads in or out of the area. Snow and frigid temperatures can make conditions along the numerous mountain passes treacherous. It’s also a good idea to get gas when you can, as there are long stretches of the drive with no available services.
Warning! If you do see a moose, keep your distance. They are large, wild animals that can be dangerous when provoked.
