Join Jim Boone and the Friends of Gold Butte as we explore the Key West Mine Loop. This is an exploratory hike with several possible permutations where we will hike little-used dirt roads, abandoned roads, open desert, and washes to make a fairly easy loop onto the flanks of Virgin Peak.

As a group, we can decide exactly where we start and how far we hike. The longest hike would be 6.2 miles, and the shortest hike would be 3.5 miles, both starting from the paved Gold Butte Road.

If everyone has suitable vehicles (off highway capable, but not rock-hopper jeeps), perhaps the most interesting hike would be a 4.0-mile loop that starts 1.3 miles up a narrow dirt road. Whichever permutation we do, me must agree beforehand to all stick together (but socially distant). As usual for Jim’s hikes, we will have time to stop and smell the roses.

Please Note: We will meet at the Fisherman’s Flats Gravel Pit no later than 8:30am. For those of you just joining this hike and not camping overnight on 11/14, the gravel pit is 14.7 miles from the Junction of Hwy 170 and Gold Butte Rd, so please plan accordingly. This hike is a part of a two-day event featuring six separate hikes and a stargazing outing, campfire, cowboy poetry, country singer and chili dinner. You may choose whichever events you want, but you MUST register for each event separately, please be aware of this!

Please bring plenty of water, a lunch and snacks for yourself, and wear weather-appropriate clothing. Closed toe shoes, sunscreen and a hat are recommended, and a walking stick may be helpful. Leave No Trace principles will be adhered to, so be prepared to pack out everything you pack in. Be aware that there are no services in Gold Butte, so be prepared to pee in the bushes!