Participants joining us on Fly Ranch Nature Walks, agree to wear a suitable face covering over mouth and nose at all times while on the property and maintain six feet of distance from others on the property. Thank you for your cooperation.
WINTER/SPRING 2021 Fly Ranch Nature Walks - experience the beauty of Fly Ranch and the Black Rock Desert region in the clear crisp air of Winter. These Winter Walks require a minimum of 10 (ten) participants.
Experience Fly Ranch in small groups, maintaining a physical distance while making a connection with the desert and geothermic landscape of Northwestern Nevada. Walk slowly, take in the scenery and experience the art and nature of Fly Ranch.
Friends of Black Rock-High Rock offer 2.5-hour Nature Walks in partnership with the Burning Man Project. Explore two distinct portions of the stunning 3,800-acre property. To the south, we will visit an area of the ranch where Burning Man art can be seen and you'll learn about the area and land use. To the north, we visit wetlands, see wildlife, and several geothermal wonders. There are three geysers on the property including the stunning Fly Geyser, a unique and iconic geothermal geyser that constantly sprays, depositing minerals, and enabling the growth of multi-colored algae on its surrounding natural terraces.
The walks are an immersive experience in a changing and dynamic environment. It is not uncommon to see wild horses, jackrabbits, coyotes and other wildlife.
About the Walks: Participants are guided by knowledgeable Docents. The total walk length is approximately 3 miles on uneven ground. Sturdy close-toed shoes are recommended. Bring water, wear layers, be prepared for changing weather from day to day.
Nature Walks start at the main Ranch gate of Fly Ranch north of Gerlach, Nevada. Details for where to meet will be in your confirmation email.
Limited Photos: During the walks, we ask everyone to keep cameras, devices, recorders and phones tucked away. Be present with all of your senses. Enjoy the land without distractions. Hear the birds, smell the flora, touch the grasses. There will be an opportunity to take photos at the conclusion of the walk when we visit the geysers.
Rain or Shine and other Details: Walks may occur during less than ideal weather. Be prepared. The soil can be muddy after rains. It can be dusty when dry. For insurance and liability reasons, we are not able to accommodate soaking in the pools at this time.
Plan ahead read the Survival Guide and visit FBRHR's website for information on visiting the Black Rock Desert area. blackrockdesert.org/know-before-you-go/
Area Amenities: In Gerlach, there is a gas station, Bruno’s Motel, Bruno’s Country Club (restaurant and bar), the Miner’s Club (cafe and bar), and Joe’s Gerlach Club. Due to Covid-19 the Friends of Black Rock-High Rock Visitor Center is closed to the public at this time. The Empire Country Market is now open daily.
Lodging: You can spend the night at Bruno's motel in Gerlach, find an Airbnb, or camp out on neighboring public lands. Learn more about Gateway Communities.
Supporting non-profit work: Tickets for this experience are donation-based. A deposit will be charged to your credit card to reserve your place on these limited-capacity trips. After the visit, you have the option of donating all or a portion of your deposit in support of Fly Ranch, or receiving a full refund of your deposit. If you do not attend, the full amount will be considered a donation and will not be refunded.
Both the Fly Ranch Project and Friends of Black Rock-High Rock are 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Your donations help us continue to offer Nature Walks and fulfill our nonprofit missions. We could not do this without your support.
Getting There and Protocol: Please arrive at the Ranch gate by 11:30 a.m. so you can be checked in before walks begin at 12 noon. The gate is approximately 25 minutes north of Gerlach. See your confirmation email for directions. It’s about a 20-minute drive to the gate from Gerlach, so plan accordingly. Pets are not allowed. If you or someone in your group has mobility issues, please let us know ahead of time so that we can better accommodate those who may have trouble making the entire walk.
For more information about the property and Burning Man’s Fly Ranch Project, visit: flyranch.burningman.org. For more information about Friends of Black Rock High Rock visit blackrockdesert.org.
Open access to Fly Ranch is not available. DO NOT TRESPASS. Fly Geyser is still on private property. Guardians remain on the property year-round.
Thank you for your interest and support. We're looking forward to walking with you!
Please note: Covid 19 protocols are in place. Masks are required, along with 6-feet physical distancing from others while on Fly Ranch. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Dogs and pets are not allowed on the Fly Ranch Nature Walks.