In search of the Forty-Niners
Lassen-Applegate Emigrant Trail Ride
June 11–13, 2027 · Surprise Valley, CA to Mill City, NV · roughly 180 miles · 3 days
This is a guided 4-wheel drive tour of the 1849 wagon route used by thousands of emigrants. Superb desert and mountain scenery with many historical points of interest, led by experienced guides. The High Rock Trekkers have hosted this annual trail ride since 1994. All quality meals and basic camping facilities are provided. Limited to 25 vehicles.
About the route
This is a 4WD trip for high clearance 4WD vehicles only. The route used will follow the same trail heavily used during the Gold Rush (1849–1852) with exception of a few areas where the original trail still remains in relatively pristine condition and needs to be preserved. The condition of the road ranges from maintained county roads to un-maintained 4WD trails.
The Emigrants wrote in their diaries such a good description of this trip that we can identify all of the key points of interest in the history of the route. It is not a difficult trip but there are places where 4WD will be required or where trail committee instructions must be followed.
What to bring
Participants bring their own tent, chairs, sleeping bags, snacks, refreshments and plenty of drinking water. The trip preparation FAQ has the full recommended supply list, radio requirements and fuel stops.
Route · eastbound · cumulative miles
Surprise Valley / Cedarville, CA
Mile 000Trailhead
Stevens Camp
Mile 030
High Rock Canyon
Mile 052
Soldier Meadows
Mile 068
Double Hot Springs
Mile 088
Black Rock Desert playa
Mile 112
Rye Patch
Mile 158
Mill City / Imlay, NV
Mile 180Trail end
Cost
- Adults
- $350
- Children 7–14
- $175
- Children under 7
- Free
Prices subject to change. All quality meals and basic camping facilities are included.
Contact Scott Casagrande · etr@highrocktrekkers.com