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9,836 ft · Humboldt Range, Nevada

Star Peak

Star Peak is a 9,836 ft peak in the Humboldt Range, Nevada. The standard route is the Star Peak Trail: 11 mi, 3,500 ft of gain, Class 2.

Star Peak in the Humboldt Range, Nevada

Star Peak at a glance

  • Elevation9,836 ft2,998 m
  • RouteStar Peak TrailClass 2
  • Distance11 mi3,500 ft gain
  • Time7 – 8 hrsHard effort
  • SeasonJun – Oct
  • RangeHumboldt RangeNevada

Climbing the Star Peak Trail

From near Lovelock, Nevada, leave I-80 and follow dirt roads into the Humboldt Range to approach Star Peak, the range highpoint; high clearance helps on the rough final miles. The Star Peak Trail is a Class 2 climb through canyon and open slopes to the summit, marked by a large cairn and register. Expect thin air, loose rock, and snow lingering near the top into early summer, with fast storms and strong wind up high. This is quiet, remote desert range country with no services, so carry ample water and navigation. Start early, watch the weather, and be ready for a long, dry day.

Gear and hazards

What to bring

  • Backpack (25–35 L)
  • Hiking Boots
  • Base Layer
  • Midlayer
  • Hardshell Jacket
  • Sun Hat
  • Warm Hat
  • Buff
  • Light Gloves
  • Trekking Poles
  • Headlamp
  • GPS Device
  • Satellite Communicator
  • Power Bank
  • Offline Maps
  • Water
  • First-Aid Kit
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen

What to watch for

  • High altitude
  • Loose rock
  • Snow near summit
  • Ice near summit
  • Storms
  • High winds
  • Remote location
  • Dry conditions

Quests with Star Peak

Frequently asked questions

How tall is Star Peak?

Star Peak is 9,836 feet (2,998 m) tall. It is in the Humboldt Range, Nevada.

How hard is it to hike Star Peak?

The Star Peak Trail is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort hard: 11 miles with 3,500 feet of elevation gain.

How long does it take to hike Star Peak?

Most people take 7 – 8 hours round trip on the Star Peak Trail, covering 11 miles with 3,500 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.

Can a beginner hike Star Peak?

The Star Peak Trail needs no climbing skills, but it is a hard day: 11 miles with 3,500 feet of elevation gain. Build up on shorter hikes first, start early and carry plenty of water and layers.

When is the best time to hike Star Peak?

The usual hiking window is June to October. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.

What is the trailhead elevation for Star Peak?

The Star Peak Trail starts at about 5,720 feet, roughly 4,116 feet below the summit.

Climb Star Peak with Yak

Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list