Charleston-Jarbidge

The journey to the remote town of Jarbidge begins either in Murphy Hot Springs, Idaho, via Three Creek Road or from Deeth, Nevada, along the Charleston-Deeth Road, which seamlessly transitions into Charleston Jarbidge Road as it winds through the rugged passes of the Jarbidge Mountains and Wilderness range. The town’s name, originating from the Shoshone language, translates to “monster that lurks in the canyon” or “weird beastly creature,” a tribute to the legend of Shoshone warriors who are said to have trapped this mysterious being in what is now Jarbidge Canyon.

The discovery of gold near Jarbidge in 1909 ignited one of the last great gold rushes of the Old West, swiftly transforming the town into a thriving hub with a population nearing 2,000 by 1911. Jarbidge also earned notoriety as the site of the last stagecoach robbery in 1916. However, the town’s prosperity waned after World War I, when much of its mining infrastructure was dismantled for the war effort. Mining operations ceased entirely in 1932 but were revived in 2013 by re-issuing gold removal permits.

Jarbidge is one of Nevada’s most remote towns, renowned for its extreme isolation, accessible only via the Charleston-Jarbidge Road. This route can be treacherous, and it is often closed from October to July due to heavy snowfall near Bear Creek Pass. Due to the steep grades and occasional washouts, all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended. Nestled in a canyon and surrounded by towering mountains, Jarbidge is not only the most isolated town in Nevada but also one of its most visually stunning, with air quality among the purest in the nation. This hidden gem offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty, making it the perfect gateway to exploring the untouched wilderness of northeastern Nevada.

The Jarbidge Wilderness Area, close to the Idaho border, unfolds as a mesmerizing landscape of forested peaks, deep river-carved gorges, and expansive basins. Visitors might come across arbor glyphs—carvings left by Basque sheepherders in the aspen groves that dot the wilderness. Despite its rugged terrain, the area remains accessible to adventurers of all levels. The historic town of Jarbidge serves as an ideal base camp, and the Charleston-Jarbidge Road offers eight free USFS-managed campgrounds along the rushing Jarbidge River and numerous opportunities for dispersed camping. The wilderness provides unparalleled fishing, hunting, and exploration opportunities for those seeking a deeper connection with nature.