Let’s go ride a bike…

Welcome to our second year of the Friends of Black Rock High Rock led group rides and bike packing events. With over 800 miles of designated routes in the NCA, these rides are curated to ensure a fantastic bike touring experience. The rides are designed to showcase the variety of natural and cultural histories found in the NCA. These routes take you deep into the Nevada outback, high above the playa, and surrounded by your imagination.

The high desert is a harsh environment and puts a strain on self reliance. Read our FAQ! Please do not hesitate to ask us (email info@blackrockdesert.org) about what it takes to be successful touring the NCA by bike. We are here for your success. Whether you want to join a ride or head out on your own – we want to know about it. 

While the NCA is managed by the BLM and occupied by visitors and residents alike, we must remember that these public lands were stolen from the indigenous Northern Paiute, Numu, or Aga’ipanadokado. The original stewards were the First People, we must continue their work to the best of our abilities.

The NCA has a the widest variety of route surfaces from paved, gravel, chunky climbs and descents, slick rock, alkali flat, sand dunes, and creek crossings. A mountain bike with wide tires, 2+”, best serves this terrain. Carrying water in the desert landscape requires at least 2 Liters per day in the cooler months and 4 Liters+ per day in the warmer months. Click the slideshow below to see some pictures of bike-packing adventures in 2022! You can also read this radical article by our very own group leader Kurstin Graham about one of the rides in 2022.

Click on any group ride for more information: some routes and dates subject to change for 2023 season

Leave the lights and crowds of the city behind. Get out into the serene wilderness and explore the Black Rock Desert at your own pace or skill level. Enthusiastic and knowledgeable bicyclists will lead you through sections of wilderness that few humans ever tread. Climb the hills on your bike and cruise the loop to get breathtaking views of the abandoned mines, hot springs, and other historic and unique sites available throughout the National Conservation Area.

Little High Rock Wilderness April 15-16th

Cassidy Mine – Steamboat June 2-6th

Fox Peak Loop July 15-16th

Friends Meteor Shower Campout Ride August 12-13th

Massacre Ranch September 16-17th

Black Rock Point & Microplayas October 14-15th