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The
Trip:
Construction began on Fort Churchill in 1860, following the two major battles of the Pyramid Lake War. The fort, during its nine years of occupation, served as desert outpost guarding the Pony Express and the other trade and travel routes in the area.
We continue south into the Mason Valley and into Yerington. The farms in this region cover nearly fifty thousand acres and provide almost a quarter of the state's agricultural products. Yerington, the Lyon County seat, is a quiet community of about 3,000 people. Offering a choice of lounging and restaurants, Yerington makes a good stopping point for the first day of our adventure.
After
spotting some of the birds common to the area, including a Red-Tail
Hawk and a White Pelican, we return to the road and make our way to
Wilson Canyon. The scenic, rocky canyon is about ten miles south of
Yerington on Highway 208 and is featured on the Mason Valley Chamber
of Commerce's mountain-biking trail map. To end our trip with a bit
of a challenge, we choose an area near the Walker River at the southern
end of Wilson Canyon. The trail includes some steep inclines and a number
of "whoop-de-dos," and despite a few spills we have a great
time. |
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Thanks to the advisors and contributors of Wild Nevada Program #107:
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The
Nevada Camel Company may seem out of place in the Nevada desert, but
proprietors Gary and Diane Jackson are continuing a tradition that began
in the 1860's. At that time, camels were imported into the area to carry
salt from the Fallon salt marshes to the Virginia City mines. After
enjoying a camel ride across the Nevada desert, we return to the highway
and continue on to Silver Springs and the junction of Highway 50 and
Alternate 95. About 8 miles south on Alternate 95 is the Fort Churchill
State Historic Park. 
Today,
the old fort's buildings are maintained in an arrested state of decay.
Fort Churchill State Historic Park offers a Visitor Center with exhibits
and information, as well as an interpretative trail through the ruins.
In 1994, the park acquired 3,200 acres of ranch land along the Carson
River, which is now enjoyed by hikers, campers, bird watchers, canoeists,
and picnickers. The park also incorporates Buckland Station, a historic
ranch house and stage station, which is located about half a mile south
on Alternate Highway 95. 
On
day two of our trip, we drive to the Mason Valley Wildlife Management
Area, located just a few miles north of Yerington on Alternate Route
95. To get there we turn east on Miller Road and find the large entrance
sign. The Mason Valley Wildlife Management Area offers hunting and fishing
opportunities, as well as our chosen activity — bird watching.