The Black Rock Desert is possibly one of the the largest flat surfaces of alkali/mud in the world and was a stop on the Pioneer Emigrant Trails, including the Applegate Trail to Southern Oregon and the Lassen and Noble Trails to Northern California. Black Rock Desert is wilderness most of the year except for one week in September when the famous (infamous?) and controversial Burning Man event is held.
The world supersonic land speed record was set in the Black Rock Desert in October 1997. Some make reference to Black Rock as "the Kitty Hawk of the 21st Century" after the world's first amateur launch to space occurred there in May 2004. Amateur rocketry enthusiasts call Black Rock the best launch site on earth because of the flat lake bed and uncontested airspace above it. AeroPAC hosts 3 high-power rocketry launches (MudRock, Aeronaut and XPRS) and AHPRA hosts a launch (BALLS) each year during the dry season.
The world supersonic land speed record was set in the Black Rock Desert in October 1997. Some make reference to Black Rock as "the Kitty Hawk of the 21st Century" after the world's first amateur launch to space occurred there in May 2004. Amateur rocketry enthusiasts call Black Rock the best launch site on earth because of the flat lake bed and uncontested airspace above it. AeroPAC hosts 3 high-power rocketry launches (MudRock, Aeronaut and XPRS) and AHPRA hosts a launch (BALLS) each year during the dry season.
Local EventsBalloon Fest - The annual Alturas Balloon Fest is one of many family friendly events in the area. The event is held each year in mid-September and allows individuals of all ages a chance to enjoy seeing colorful hot air balloons floating majestically through the clear Modoc skies. Rides are available for those who are adventurous, and the popular "Night Glow" provides a chance to see the beautiful balloons lit up at night. For yearly dates, contact the Alturas Chamber of Commerce.
Fandango Days - Fandango Days is the name of the Annual Modoc County 4th of July festival which consists of a parade down Main St., live music, delicious food, and games for the kiddos afterward at the local park. There is also a community street dance, and to top off the whole celebration, which sometimes covers a span of two days, fireworks over the lake at California Pines. If you come to visit in July, you will not want to miss this old-fashioned, family friendly celebration the whole community enjoys. |
Explore the Outdoors
Wild Horses - On the way to the ranch from Cedarville, CA, you may be lucky enough to spot the beautiful Carter Reservoir wild horse herd roaming free, as shown above. For more information on this herd, visit Sierra Nevada Geotourism. Check out this video of 5 wild horses we came across on our drive. https://youtu.be/VkZUmLgQe-Q
Byway Driving Tour - the is a 90-mile loop that may be started at the ranch. Take your time and enjoy the peace and quiet. Points of interest are numbered in order on the route. 
High Rock Canyon is about 40 miles (1-1/2 hours of dirt road driving) south of Vya. Exploring the Black Rock Desert means traveling to one of the most ruggedly beautiful and remote places in Nevada—and the Lower 48. Be sure to travel prepared. Remember to bring a spare (a tire patch kit wouldn't hurt either), extra fuel and plenty of food and water.
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Local ActivitiesHere are some places of interest for a day-trip excursion away from the ranch when you get tired of visiting with us!
Desert Rose Casino - Try your hand at one of the one-armed bandits. The Desert Rose is open 7 days a week and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in their restaurant. Golf – Public courses are located nearby at Arrowhead Golf Course in Alturas, CA, and at the Likely Place RV Park & Golf in Likely, CA. Hot Springs – Relax those weary muscles with a soak in the natural hot springs at the Surprise Valley Hot Springs just outside of Cedarville and located about 12 miles from the ranch. Fishing – Fishing for trout and warm water fish is enjoyed at numerous ponds and reservoirs in the Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge, about 23 miles from the ranch. Be sure to have your gear and fishing license with you. Opal Mining – An all day activity, but it might just be your lucky day! The links below offer information about opals in general and opal mining in Nevada. Don't forget to bring your pick!
Snow Skiing – Cedar Pass Snow Park is a seasonal operation located in the nearby Warner Mountains between Cedarville and Alturas, CA. It's a small operation, but lots of fun to ski as you can see in this video. www.youtube.com/watch?v=DD0rm9-l0cU |