For a couple hours of stretching the legs, this low summit in Central Nevada offers a surprisingly scenic view. It has some minor prominence, and requires no dirt road driving. Probably only a very few people climb it, as it is not on any list, and is scarcely noticed as one drives by on U. S. 50, the "loneliest highway." It offers some class 2 scrambling and needs a bit of route-finding to achieve the highest point.

Getting There

Drive along U.S. 50, to Central Nevada, about 15 miles west of Austin, NV. A wide area signed "Mt. Airy Summit" offers parking, along with some litter receptacles. The elevation here is 6,700 feet. A sandy track heads north, past a corral and a shot-up, overturned vehicle. Follow this track for about 1.5 miles, then head cross-country east toward the minor escarpment that culminates in the peak. There is some talus to encounter, and then easy slopes on the ridge, and east of it, allows some class 1 hiking to gain the summit.

Red Tape

No permits, passes, or fees. Parking is free.

When To Climb

It can probably be climbed year-round. It is high enough to allow for comfortable hiking in summer, and only a severe snowstorm will deposit enough snow to cause any great hindrance.

Camping

Primitive camping seems O.K. in the area. There is no water for backpacking, but the hike distance is so short, this is not needed to be doing this peak.

The USFS Bob Scott Campground, several miles east of Austin, offers pleasant fee camping, with facilities. Sand Mountain, about 50 miles to the west, offers ORV use with some camping. There is lodging in Austin, NV.

Mountain Conditions

The Bureau of Land Management runs the area. You might call the USFS ranger station in Austin, NV, for any information. They have a view of the range to the west. The Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest website should have their number. The USFS manages much of the area about the higher ranges.