Las Vegas may be known for casinos. But the outdoor adventures surrounding the city reveal an entirely different side of the region that rivals some of the most well-known outdoor recreation hubs in the country.
The variety of landscapes throughout Cowboy Country had my jaw dropping what felt like every few minutes. There are multiple hot springs and geothermal features in the area, rolling sand dunes, and wide expanses of desert that feature some of the most quiet places in the US (aside from the occasional coyote howl).
This next stretch is where you’ll begin to understand why this is known as “The Loneliest Road in America.” Get an early start and be sure to top off your gas tank before leaving Fallon. Your first stop is Sand Mountain, a vast dune complex popular with dune buggy and dirt bike enthusiasts. Sand Springs Station, one of Nevada’s best-preserved Pony Express relay outposts, and an eerie reminder of the hardscrabble life early travelers endured here.
Having traveled the highway across Nevada (and back) myself, I can assure you, no special skills are needed to survive; just a sense of adventure, a little planning, and a better attitude than a certain ‘LIFE’ magazine writer. Whether you’re a history buff or an outdoor enthusiast, there are plenty of surprises for the curious-minded traveler.
Since its inception in 1905, Las Vegas has been home to the biggest rock stars, magicians, and performers on earth. But that doesn’t mean it’s all recirculated air! Mountain biking, kayaking, and off-roading opportunities abound just outside the glow of the neon lights.
Nevada is home to 28 Indigenous tribes, each with a rich cultural heritage and a deep connection to the land. From the peaceful shores of Lake Tahoe to the vast and rugged Great Basin, Nevada’s Indian Territory encourages visitors to explore the many parks, public lands and cultural sites while learning from its native people. On your adventure to Nevada, you’ll blend outdoor adventure with authentic Indigenous cultural experiences for a transformative and unforgettable experience.
For adventurous travelers seeking a basecamp just outside of Death Valley National Park, it doesn’t get much better than the friendly community of Beatty, Nevada. Beyond the park, Beatty is a hub for remote exploration, from miles of uncrowded OHV trails to meeting the wild burros who make themselves at home, right in the town square.
Proudly known as “America’s Loneliest Road,” travel across Nevada’s Highway 50 for a road trip packed with outdoor adventures and old west history.
We’re no strangers to the beauty of Lake Tahoe, and we find it draws us back year after year. After all, there is always something new going on! Look no further for the newest adventures, bites, and places to rest your head during your next 48 hours in the Sierra Nevada.