The 2,478,902 acres of Humboldt National Forest are scattered along the Independence, Santa Rosa, Ruby, White Pine, Jarbridge, Schell Creek and Quinn Canyon ranges in north-central Nevada.
Jarbridge Wilderness is north of Elko; no motorized vehicles are allowed, but six trails suitable for hiking and horseback riding traverse the area.
The Ruby Mountains Wilderness, southwest of Elko, offers backpacking and other recreational opportunities within 90,000 acres of alpine lakes, glaciated canyons and rugged mountains.