Sandwiched between California and Utah, Nevada is blessed with awe-inspiring scenery – mountains, canyons, rivers, deserts and eroded rock formations – all calling to be explored. From the shores of Lake Tahoe to the petrified dunes of the Valley of Fire, there’s enough backcountry to keep your adrenaline pumping for weeks.
One of the largest Alpine lakes in North America, and its second deepest, Lake Tahoe sits on the California/Nevada border. Its crystalline waters have a visibility of 21m, and are flanked by some of the most beautiful forested mountains in the Carson Range and Sierra Nevada. In summer, the lake attracts swimmers, skiers, sailors, paddle-boarders and water-skiers, and its sandy shores are the perfect place to sunbathe or practice yoga. Paddle boards can be rented at Incline Village and Zephyr Cove Resort.
On the lake’s eastern rim – 30 minutes from Reno – is the Mount Rose wilderness area. Presided over by 3200m Mount Rose – named after pinkish hue of the rock in the afternoon light – there are dozens of world-class trails here to lure hikers, climbers and snow-shoers away from crowded neighbouring peaks. Horse-riders also have 32km of designated paths to enjoy.
Nevada is home to the bristlecone pine – an ancient species that can live for up to 5000 years. The oldest known example was found to be 5066 years old. Spend a few days exploring Great Basin National Park, in the east of the state, where you can hike the three-mile Bristlecone Trail and see the ancient pines growing on a glacial moraine.
If you still have time, try the 14km trek to Wheeler Peak – one of Nevada’s highest points, at 4000m. But remember to be prepared – the weather can change quickly up here! Great Basin also plays host to the annual Astronomy Festival at the end of September. Visitors to the park usually stay in nearby Ely, 108km to the west. Browse www.elynevada.net for accommodation information.
At the base of Wheeler Peak is Lehman Caves, a series of limestone and marble chambers filled with stalactites, stalagmites and more than 300 rare shield formations. The caves are best explored on a guided tour – and it’s well worth it.
Another peak to tackle is Mount Charleston – the highest mountain in Clark County and the Spring Mountains. In winter it’s prime skiing territory, and in spring and summer, the hiking is some of the state’s best, with spectacular views over the surrounding lowlands.
Nearly half of all America’s wild horses roam free around Nevada, and you can often spot them while out and about. If you prefer to experience these magnificent animals up close, many outdoor centres can organise a ride through the countryside on horseback.
If you prefer water-based recreation, you can take a scenic cruise on Lake Mead to see the impressive Hoover Dam in the south.
And on the Truckee River to the north, tubing is a popular way to while away many happy hours floating downstream while watching the world go by.
Nevada to is also home to over 300 hot springs. Not all are open to the public but there are plenty that are, and offer travellers a great way to wind down and relax.
The 80,000 hectare Red Rock Canyon is Nevada’s first National Conservation Area, and contains some of the state’s most majestic scenery. Just 27km west of the Las Vegas Strip, yet a world away in terms of scenery and lifestyle, it’s a great place to hike, mountain bike, rock climb or horse-ride. Stop in at the park’s visitor centre to pick up a map, work out your route then head out to explore. You can also learn about the park’s geology, wildlife and environment here, as well as about the nearby Mojave Desert.
Each spring, rock climbers gather at Red Rock for the annual Red Rock Rendezvous at Spring Mountain Ranch State Park, which falls within Red Rock Canyon NCA. The world’s largest climbing festival, the Rendezvous attracts thousands of climbing enthusiasts who come to take part in workshops, celebrate the sport and meet like-minded people.
Spring Mountain – whose name derives from the springs that run through the park and contribute to its lush greenery – also boasts five hiking trails. The visitor centre is housed in a ranch that once belonged to Howard Hughes.
Just 80km northeast of Las Vegas is the Valley of Fire State Park – Nevada’s largest and oldest park, named after the jagged red rock formations that glow red when reflecting the sun. The park’s petroglyphs and petrified dunes were created from shifting sands some 150 million years ago, and make for an impressive sight, especially when witnessed in the early morning or late afternoon light.
Whichever way you choose to explore the state, the majesty of Nevada is sure to win you over and have you coming back for more.
Originally published as Done Vegas? There’s more to Nevada
