2021-02-13, 08:54 AM
My experience with the road is similar to GowerGulch, though I think the last time I was up there was about 2 years ago. Drive in a friend's Outback. On that trip we drove to the spot where there is a closed road leading to what is shown as Schwaub (site) on the topo, and followed that old road (which disappears fro much of the wash) up to the divide, then west along the ridge to Winters peak, and down the direct gully route back to our car. 1) that's not the spot with the cool old stuff DAW mentions - despite the name there's really nothing there. 2) The gully route is much more direct and is the preferred way to bag Winters.
We've also driven (same vehicle, different years) to the end of the road, past the mine. From there is an old RR grade to the escarpment overlooking the Amargosa valley, where apparently there used to be a winch line. There are some good petros in route (you will miss them on the walk out unless you're looking, but not on the return) and you can also head over to Schwaub Peak for a more strenuous hike.
I don't recall any signage but you may not be allowed to camp at the actual mine site - if it's not signed, it should be, but no reason not to camp in the area and stroll over to the ruins by moonlight, that would be very cool. The views from the Amargosa escarpment are awesome and its not a hard hike but definitely not a drive-in camp spot.
It is a beautiful and historic area.
We've also driven (same vehicle, different years) to the end of the road, past the mine. From there is an old RR grade to the escarpment overlooking the Amargosa valley, where apparently there used to be a winch line. There are some good petros in route (you will miss them on the walk out unless you're looking, but not on the return) and you can also head over to Schwaub Peak for a more strenuous hike.
I don't recall any signage but you may not be allowed to camp at the actual mine site - if it's not signed, it should be, but no reason not to camp in the area and stroll over to the ruins by moonlight, that would be very cool. The views from the Amargosa escarpment are awesome and its not a hard hike but definitely not a drive-in camp spot.
It is a beautiful and historic area.