The "Sweetwater Road," as locals refer to Highway 338, runs parallel to Highway 395. Despite its high summit, the route lies east of the tall Sweetwater Mountains, which often shield Highway 338 from the brunt of Sierra blizzards. East of the Sweetwaters, snow can accumulate and stay hard-frozen from late fall through spring.
Highway 338 can be maintained, and the road dries readily -- if the plows are running. Although a reasonable alternative to U.S. Highway 395's Walker Canyon during heavy winter storms, Highway 338 will not see a plow past 4 o'clock in the afternoon. To avoid being stranded on this lonely road, limit foul weather travel to mid morning through early afternoon. The drive from Bridgeport to Smith Valley is approximately 45 minutes on a clear highway.
Exploring The Sweetwater Mountains
Historically, the Sweetwater Range was a mining and grazing region. Today, the major mines are gone although a number of smaller claims remain active. Locally, the range provides a wealth of recreational outlets, including four-wheeling, old mines, ghost town sites, hunting, fishing, and camping. At the north end of the Nevada access is Desert Creek, providing a U.S. Forest Service campground and miles of streamside play. The Desert Creek recreational area attracts families and those wanting to beat the summer heat of surrounding desert country (with water and rocky hillsides, rattlesnakes have made their presence known here, too). Desert Creek Peak stands at 9,020 feet, the first of several higher peaks lining the range.
Driving south along Highway 338, you can access Desert Creek from its upper end, near the Desert Creek Peak. A quarter-mile before Sweetwater Summit, just before the descent to the Sweetwater Ranch, a sign on the west side of the road reads, "Sweetwater Canyon--3 Miles." This dirt access qualifies as a four-wheel drive route yet does not require excess ground clearance. A stock Jeep, truck-based SUV, or other short wheelbase 4x4 can readily climb the canyon.
There are several treats ahead as you wind up the canyon. Near the top, the Nugent cabin and old mine sites come to view. Peaks tower to 10,500 feet, the East Sister most prominent. The flora ranges from Utah juniper and Jeffrey pines to pine nut trees and even white fir. Sweetwater Creek has a steady flow year round, providing precious water for the Sweetwater Ranch and a shady haven for fickle brook trout. Fauna include deer, occasional mountain lions, coyotes, smaller mammals, and rodents. In summer and early fall, cattle graze the creek area and tiny meadows.
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