TRIP TO JARBIDGE (PART 2):
Mile 38: We finally catch glimpse of the mountains we need to conquer. In the background, sits Copper Basin and Copper Mountain (the peak at the center b.g.)
From here on, CR 748 twists and turns through thick aspen groves. Notice the road is still in excellent shape. Every year, Elko County makes a regular effort to keep this road clean and passable for both tourists and the locals.
Mile 41: After a short but steep ascent, we reach an absolutely breathtaking view of Copper Basin (elev. 7,452'). Many apologies for the broken panorama. Copper Basin has some interesting geology; the gray shale in the left background offers some of the most remote rockhounding in Nevada; rockhounds can pick away at leaf fossils, evidence that this terrain was once underwater. This is another reminder that yes folks, we are still barely within the Great Basin. The edge of the Great Basin lies literally on top of Copper Mountain.
At this point, we found it worthwhile for a second break.
Mile 43: Just a few miles above Copper Basin, the road begins its grueling climb all the way to Bear Creek Summit. For at least 7 miles, you will be heading uphill on tight switchbacks and at times, some very annoying washboard. Although it's not particularly rough, this section of road north of Copper Basin is why this route is NOT recommended for RV's and trailers.
Mile 45 (and STILL climbing!): The entire way to Jarbidge, CR 748 has a pretty good surface for all types of vehicles...
Here is the beginning of the dense coniferous forests typical of the Jarbidge Mountains. Look closely, and you'll notice these trees look a little differently than other conifers found throughout Nevada. The forests of the Jarbidge Mountains make a regular mixing pot of Colorado species of evergreen: Rocky Mountain, Engelmann Spruce, Douglas Firs and White Firs, species that only inhabit areas with plenty of moisture. Here is your proof that the Jarbidge Moutains receieves plenty of year-round precip.
Mile 59: Viewers will catch glimpse of this meadow tarn off to their left. I decided to call this un-named pond, "Arch Pond", although "Ring Pond" would be more appropriate. Notice the desert view far off in the background, evidence of how high this road must travel to get to Jarbidge!
Mile 62, and still climbing: No boys and girls, the photo below is not a trick shot. This is still Nevada; this is proof for anybody who thinks Nevada is nothing but "wasteland desert." A trip into the Jarbidge Mountains throws you right in the middle of some of the densest forests in America, forests resembling the typical greenery of Pacific Northwest. I guess Nature has her sense of humor in America's driest state!
Nice to see that Elko County reminds us of the already windy conditions. Where was this sign about 20 miles ago?
Mile 70: At last, Coon Creek Summit (8,156') is reached. Unfortunately, Elko County failed to erect a summit sign. By this time, the temperature had plunged about six degrees as we were nearing day's end.
COPPER BASIN - COON CREEK SUMMIT
