Garnet Hill Recreation Area

Garnet Hill is the only designated rock hounding area in the Ely District, an internationally known site for gem collectors looking for garnets. Here you may find the ruby red semi-precious gems in the rocky volcanic outcrops. Garnets can be found either through careful rock breaking or searching the surface and drainages for the dark colored stones. The garnets will usually occur as single crystals attached to small cavities in the rhyolite rock, though they may weather out of the rock, and wash downhill. Bring a rock hammer or just search the ground to locate these crystals. Although most of the garnets found here are not of perfect gem quality, most people go home happy with their finds. Garnet Hill is also an excellent location to view the excavations of the massive open pit copper mines near Ruth, Nevada. Things to note: There are four picnic sites with grills and a handicap accessible restroom available. A group barbeque area is also available. There are two informal areas for tents or small campers. RVs and large trailers are not recommended. No water is available. How to get there: Garnet Hill is located in White Pine County, approximately 10 miles northwest of Ely, off of U.S. Highway 50. From Ely drive 6.4 miles west on US 50 to the sign indicating Garnet Hill. Turn east 1.7 miles to a signed road junction and travel south and west 1.4 miles to the parking area.