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7 NEVADA DAY TRIPS
When we think of Nevada, we usually think of the bright lights of Reno and the casino life in Las Vegas. However, the beloved “Silver State” is actually home to so much more. Aside from the wonderfully extravagant nightlife that’s known the world over, Nevada is also a great state to go to if you’re in the mood for day trips. If you’re in a do-it-yourself mood and would like a genuine experience with family and friends that’s away from manufactured forms of tourism, then feel free to check this list out for your next getaway ideas!
FLY RANCH
The Fly Ranch (also known as the Fly Geyser) is 3,800 acres of beautiful land located in the Hulapai Flat. Contrary to popular belief, the geysers are actually man-made and born from well drilling in the 1910s. Today, public walks and sightseeing are organized by the Burning Man Project who purchased the land back in 2016. This organization is also responsible for the festival of the same name, normally taking place in the Black Rock Desert not too far from the Fly Ranch itself.
TONOPAH
Tonopah is right in the middle of Nevada’s two busiest cities – Reno and Las Vegas – and it couldn’t be any more different than them. It’s a small town that forgoes the busy and bright night life in favor of a more subdued, inconspicuous existence honoring Nevada’s history. It also has a fascination with the supernatural, or more accurately, people have a fascination with it being associated with “ghost” clowns and miners, thanks to the Tonopah Cemetery and the Clown Motel, labeled as “America’s Scariest Motel”. Whether you’re in the mood for a fright or to learn more about what makes Nevada great, Tonopah is a good place.
RHYOLITE GHOST TOWN & BEATTY, NEVADA
From spiritual ghosts to a more literal kind, therein lies a ghost town north from Tonopah. During the era of the boom and bust of silver mining, Rhyolite became abandoned and uninhabited. In the neighboring town of Beatty lies a house made entirely of glass bottles which was a relic from Rhyolite itself. Beatty, however, has more than just Rhyolite hand-me-downs. It also is home to the largest candy store in the United States, Death Valley Nut and Candy, and the unique Goldwell Open Air Museum.
ROUTE 50
Route 50 is home to the most barren landscapes you will ever see in Nevada, which is why the route has been christened as the “Loneliest Road in America”. From wildlife areas such as the Great Basin National Park to historic locations such as the Nevada Northern Railway, you will never run out of things to see and witness even if there aren’t any people in the area anymore. It’s a great look at some remnants of Nevada’s past, and at the end of it all, either side of California or Maryland will be waiting at the end of your journey!
WARD CHARCOAL OVENS STATE HISTORIC PARK
While you’re making your way in Route 50, feel free to stop by the Ward Charcoal Ovens Historic Park. The area is home to six charcoal ovens that look like a cross between beehives and huts. These ovens are relics from the silver mining era and a great reminder of Nevada’s history. Within the state park itself, you can also do activities such as fishing, hiking or even camping.
METROPOLIS GHOST TOWN
It may be hard to believe but Rhyolite isn’t the only ghost town in the state! Say hello to Metropolis (not related to either the 1927 film or Superman’s city of operations). During the 20th century, this town was named as such as it was envisioned as a shining beacon of hope. However, in those times, it was understandably tough to build such a vibrant community. Eventually, Metropolis was hit with lawsuits regarding its diversion of water and eventually had to close up shop.
VALLEY OF FIRE STATE PARK
The Valley of Fire is Nevada’s oldest state park, home to gorgeous red rock scenery and lots of sandstone which was the inspiration for the park’s name. The beauty of the terrain is everywhere and truly is a sight to behold to make anyone stop and stare! This park is located in Overton and it’s become one of the community’s proudest places.
