In the shadows of Nevada’s celebrated Extraterrestrial Highway, State Route 375, lies the Southern Reveille Range, a geological anomaly within the state’s typically mineral-rich topography. Historically, this area likely saw its fair share of hopeful prospectors scouring its expanse for valuable minerals, but unlike many other Nevada ranges, their searches yielded no fruit. Without any notable mineral wealth, the Southern Reveille Range remains relatively unscarred by the usual network of roads, mines, and the assorted remnants that are common in former prospecting zones. It’s a natural sanctuary, largely untouched by the march of industrial progress.
Among the range’s natural marvels stands Fang Ridge, known for its arresting display of red rock spires that boldly cut across the sky, east to west, in stark contrast to the surrounding range. Formed from dacite—a resilient volcanic rock—the ridge not only survives the harsh conditions but also calls to adventurers and rock climbers, with its spires soaring to elevations around 6,000 feet.
One accessible route into the southern portion of the Reveille Range skirts the southern edge of Fang Ridge. This path not only opens the door to the untouched wilderness but also leads explorers past the perennially flowing Pyramid Spring. The journey extends half a mile past this natural water source, culminating in a spacious parking area beneath the ridge. This parking site holds historical significance as a former observation point for radiation, set during the days of nuclear experimentation at the Nevada Test Site situated to the range’s south.
If you plan to explore this less-traveled path, the initial turnoff, which lacks signage, can be located approximately 28.7 miles north of Rachel along Nevada SR-375, near coordinates 37.948965 N, 116.054463 W. The trail is generally navigable for vehicles designed for rough terrain, but standard cars might find it challenging. The route stretches about 4 miles to Pyramid Spring, with an additional 0.4 miles leading to the trail’s terminus.