As of 2023, Scenic Canyons no longer operates this picnic area, and this page will no longer be updated. For up to date information, please visit the Forest Service website.

 

Powerhouse Group Picnic Area is set in scenic Lamoille Canyon in a stand of thick, shady aspens next to Lamoille Creek, elevation 6,500 feet. Fishing for rainbow and brook trout is popular on the creek. The canyon offers pretty mountain scenery, hiking, biking, horseback riding, rock climbing, and camping.

This picnic area was newly constructed in 2003 and is a fully ADA-accessible site offering a pavilion, several large picnic tables, a group fire ring with benches, two BBQ grills, and serving tables. Vault toilets and garbage service are provided but no water is available. A large parking area is adjacent to the site, accommodating 25-30 vehicles. This day use facility can be reserved by large groups. The facility is available for use between 8am and 10pm daily.

 

Prices:

$7 per vehicle for day use

$47 for annual pass
$94 for group reservations

Reservations: Groups can reserve this picnic area up to one year in advance at recreation.gov. 

Directions: From Elko, head south on Idaho Street, turn south on 12th Street (from the east) or 5th Street (from the west), to SR 227. Travel 25 miles on SR 227 to Forest Road 660, Lamoille Canyon Scenic Byway. Travel a short distance on FR 660 to picnic area. See map below.

 

Open Dates: Second Friday in May to fourth Monday in September.

Amenities: Vault toilets and garbage service. No drinking water.

Nearby: Lamoille Canyon is part of the beautiful Ruby Mountains, a desert island brimming with wildlife, sparkling lakes and streams, wildflower-filled meadows, and jagged peaks. This area has numerous hiking and horseback riding trails that lead to alpine lakes and vistas. Anglers have plentiful fishing opportunities. The canyon road itself is popular for scenic driving and road biking. Vertical cliffs offer rock-climbing routes for all skill levels.

 

See more locations managed by Scenic Canyons in the Ruby Mountains Ranger District.

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For more information, visit the Forest Service website.