How do I get there?
Gold Butte is located south of the City of Mesquite, Nevada. It’s often accessed either from River Road in Mesquite, or via Riverside Exit off of Interstate 15. The Gold Butte Road starts south at the Riverside Bridge from State Route 170.
Are there any maps of the area?
A map is available here.
Where can I drive?
Gold Butte has over 600 miles of designated routes, the majority of which are recommended for 4-wheel drive only. The main Gold Butte road to Whitney Pockets is semi-paved and accessible to most vehicles. Except for the road to Whitney Pockets, routes in Gold Butte are unmaintained dirt.
Can I camp?
Yes, camping is allowed in Gold Butte for a maximum of 14 days in a 30-day period. Most people camp in previously disturbed areas at Whitney Pockets. The future management plan for Gold Butte will identify camping opportunities.
Does Gold Butte have hiking trails?
There are no current designated and marked hiking trails in the Gold Butte area. Hiking opportunities are exploratory at this time.
What can I expect when I visit Gold Butte?
Gold Butte is very rugged and has no amenities. The roads to points of interest are rough and unmaintained. The area has no cell phone service. The temperatures can vary from below freezing in the winter to over 100 degrees F in the summer. Travelers are advised to take plenty of water and let someone know where you have gone and when you expect to return. Please be respectful to private property in the area.
Can I collect artifacts, rocks, and plants in Gold Butte?
Collecting any historic or prehistoric feature is prohibited, including historic corrals, mining remnants, or even historic junk. Do not touch petroglyphs, as the oils from skin will damage them. Please leave no trace and take only photos. Small amounts of common rocks and plants may be collected. Cactus and yucca are protected and may not be collected or used for firewood.
What animals can I see in Gold Butte?
The northern half of Gold Butte is designated as Critical Habitat for the threatened desert tortoise. Please obey the 25 mile/hour speed limit when driving. Desert bighorn sheep occupy the Virgin Mountains and other rugged ranges in Gold Butte. Hawks, quail, owls and other birds can be viewed.
Are there any tours going into Gold Butte?
At this time there are no permitted tours of Gold Butte. After a management plan has been prepared, tours may be considered.
How do I find out more about Gold Butte?
Go to http:/www.blm.gov/site-page/nevada-gold-butte or Friends of Gold Butte – http://www.friendsofgoldbutte.org/