The sign quote, above, indicates that the Ruby Mountains could have snow on them as early as September. Overland Creek rushes down from the Ruby Mountains, above right. It surges east, under Ruby Valley Road into the valley, where it adds to the water table, right. By the mid 1860's Overland Ranch and Farm were growing crops in the area. The current Overland Ranch, seen behind the sign, top left, was established in 1873, according to a sign in front of the house.
Our team is headed south on HCO. It's named Ruby Valley Road here. This is our 14th day on the trail - May 19, 2006. The Donner - Reed Party took a rest day on September 18, 1846 in the general area south of Overland Creek. It was a place with numerous springs, later called "50 Springs." We found no sign, map place name, nor evidence of springs in the general area. Continuing south, we headed toward Franklin Lake.