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It may come as a surprise to many, but the largest national forest in the United States outside of Alaska is in the desert state of Nevada (and smaller parts of Eastern California) called Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. Nevada is much more than just a desert state (after all it has the largest national forest in the Lower 48). The Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest contains many non-contiguous sections of arid montane forests.
Nevada is an underrated state with scores of attractions that few bother to see. While in the state, take time to explore everything from the abandoned and protected charcoal ovens in eastern Nevada to the state's many ghost towns - including the living Wild West "ghost" town of Virginia City near Reno.
Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest - The Largest In The Lower 48
"The Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest’s spectacular 6.3 million acres make it the largest National Forest in the lower 48 states. The Forest does not resemble most other National Forests in that it has numerous fairly large but non-contiguous sections scattered across most of the state of Nevada and a portion of eastern California."
In the past, Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest has been administered differently with the Ruby Mountains National Forest segment being the oldest established in 1906. The various sections of the forest have been administratively combined since 1995.
- Largest: The Largest U.S National Forest Outside of Alaska
- Size: 6,289,821 acres (25,454.00 km2)
- Where: Nevada, Eastern California
While most other national forests are contiguous, the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest is made up of a number of non-contiguous sections set mostly on the forested ranges in Nevada separated by the desert valleys in between.
- Headquarters: Sparks, Nevada
- Managed By: United States Forestry Service
The Montane Forests Of Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest
The forests are of the Great Basin montane forests ecoregion. The montane forests are generally found on sky islands at elevations higher than that of the Great Basin Desert and the surrounding scrublands.
The types of trees include white fir, douglas fir, and ponderosa pines at the middle elevations, with limber pine, subalpine fir, Engelmann spruce, and bristlecone pines at higher elevations. There are also large areas made up of pure stands of aspen.
- Ecoregion: Great Basin Montane Forests
Bristlecone pines are known to be the longest-living non-clonal tree species in the world and can live for thousands of years. They live in harsh places that are often largely devoid of other plant life and at extremely slow-growing. Growing away from other plants means not having to compete with them and having reduced risks of wildfires.
- Bristlecone Pines: The Oldest Non-Clonal Tree Species
The Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest boasts some of the more spectacular ranges in Nevada like the Jarbidge Wilderness Area, Santa Rosa Mountains, eastern Sierra Nevada ranges, Mount Moriah, the rugged Alta-Toqiumas, and others. Three of Nevada's five tallest peaks are found within the national forest (Mt. Moriah, Mt. Jefferson, and Mt. Charleston).
Visiting Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest And What To Do
Most of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest is quite remote and well away from population centers. The best way to enjoy it is by hiking through it and camping within it.
There are numerous places to access this vast forest (way more than can be listed here) and the forest has many hiking trails. Being off the main tourist drag, one is likely to have much of mountains and forests to oneself. Keep one's eyes peeled for the famous wild horses (or mustangs) that roam these forests.
- Activities: Hiking, Camping, Fishing, Mountain Biking, Off-Roading, More
- Tip: Look for Wild Horses
Being in the high desert and far from population centers, it has very dark nights. Many sections of the forest are ideal for stargazing.
As it is managed by the United States Forestry Service, most of the lands are open to the public and do not require a permit to visit. Campers are permitted to stay for up to 14 days.
- Admission Fee: Generally None
Note that one should pay attention to local guidelines and open fires may be prohibited. As with all places everywhere, leave no trace behind.
Most of the forest is fairly undeveloped with tourist infrastructure (unlike the national parks like Yosemite). Basic campsites can be found at various sites around the national forest. While these forests may lack the majestic beauty of other forests - like the redwoods and the sequoias, they do have their own rugged beauty. One of the great things about Nevada's forests is their isolation where one can enjoy them in peace and quiet. No one needs to worry about the crowds of the national parks.