Smith Creek Dry Lake is a remote, high-elevation (6000ft.) playa near central Nevada. The nearest town is Austin which is about 30 miles away. The
playa is about four miles by six miles. Because of its elevation the temps are comfortable in mid summer. There are hot springs to enjoy at the end
of a day on the playa. Various clubs have events at this location.
To get there take I-80 east from Reno to the east Fernley exit and follow US 50 east. I suggest getting supplies and fuel at Fallon before going on
to the playa. From Fallon continue east past Sand Mountain and Middlegate. At Eastgate take Nevada highway 722 east. This is the old route to
Austin. The road goes up into the mountains to a pass and down the other side. About six miles past the pass is a dirt road on the left
(N39degrees14.447minutes W117degrees38.807minutes). Take this road for about six miles to a right turn (N39degrees18.975minutes
W117degrees33.983minutes) This road goes to the hot springs (N39degrees18.063minutes W117degrees33.063minutes) From the hot springs stay on the same
road to the playa. There are other roads onto the playa. Explore a little and check them out.
The locals call this playa Two Cows. At each end of the playa is a cow skeleton attached to a pole. I dunno why but there they are...
As with most playas, conditions of the surface vary from year to year. The last time I was there a very smooth fast section was along the south
shore. It was rougher in the middle.
Over the Fourth of July weekend a group gathers there for a small "Burning Man" type celebration. They have a great fireworks show!
Primitive conditions are here. Take everything you will need. Bring lots of drinking water and shade. Bicycles come in handy. Pack it in Pack it
Out!
The following link is from the Burning Man site. It has lots of information. Some doesn't apply, most does. Use your head and above all have a
great time at Two Cows!
http://www.burningman.com/preparation/event_survival/2004_su...
CrashLama
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