Warner Peak

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · River/Creek · Views · Wildlife

This solitary hike invites visitors to embrace the immense open spaces of the Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge as they climb to Warner Peak. In addition to a little route-finding and limitless horizons, the hike also provides the opportunity to spot some of the refuge's resident creatures, both big and small.

The nearby Hart Mountain Hot Springs Campground is open year-round, and the surrounding aspens and easily accessible hot springs make for a great staging ground for any excursion in the area.

The parking area for this hike is located just south of the campground. From there, travel up Barnhardi Road for 1.75 miles. Keep straight at the first intersection, and then turn right at the second to follow a dirt road down into Barnhardi Meadow past a historic cabin. There aren't any formal trails here, so look for the path of least resistance en route up the drainage to DeGarmo Notch or up another promising slope that leads south to the ridge.

Gaining the ridge is the most difficult part of the hike, but don't be discouraged, as the plateau above features some wonderfully untamed land with views to match! From the ridge, look for the radio tower on top of Warner Peak. Not only is it an easy "homing beacon" to head toward, but its added elevation only makes the views that much better.

On the way back, either closely retrace your route or explore another section of the wide cradle that is formed by the plateau. Just make sure to pick a landmark to keep you oriented as you hike. The final stretch down the road will give you some time to think about how nice it will feel to soak your muscles in the nearby hot springs.

Although the refuge may be better known for American Pronghorn Antelope, it's also home to California bighorn sheep, American pika, and many other creatures including the greater sage-grouse. If you want to keep a tally of the species you observe, the Fish and Wildlife Service has produced a printable checklist here.