East Fork High Rock Canyon Wilderness

The East Fork High Rock Canyon Wilderness (52,618 acres) consists of a large area of broad volcanic uplands dissected by the deeply cut drainages of High Rock and the East Fork of High Rock Canyons (also known as Pole Canyon). The many cliffs and rock formations support a wide range of wildlife habitats including a nesting raptor population of golden eagles, prairie falcons, hawks and owls. The canyons support a small yearlong mule deer population which swells with winter migrants. The sparsely sage brush covered buttes and uplands are home to pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep and wild horses.

Please follow the regulations and practice Leave No Trace / TreadLightly! principles when visiting to protect the unique natural and experiential qualities of this special area.

Motorized equipment and equipment used for mechanical transport are prohibited. This includes the use of motor vehicles (including OHVs), motorized equipment, bicycles, hang gliders, wagons, carts, portage wheels, and the landing of aircraft including helicopters. Contact the agency for more information about regulations.

The Wilderness is located in western Humboldt and northern Washoe Counties. All access routes to the Wilderness require high clearance four wheel drive. Once you are to the Wilderness area – use of motorized vehicles are prohibited. The main access to the wilderness is along the jeep trail located in High Rock Canyon which is seasonally closed from January 31-May15 to protect nesting raptors and important bighorn lambing grounds.