7 Most Breathtaking Towns In Nevada

Nevada stretches across more than 110,000 square miles, making it the seventh largest state and nearly the same size as Italy! Given its vast size, it is only natural that Nevada has some breathtaking towns to discover. Some towns reflect the classic arid desert setting you might expect from the Silver State, while others offer unexpected wonders like lakes, wetlands, and caverns. The seven following towns showcase some of Nevada’s most remarkable places, each offering a trip unlike any other.

Genoa

In a state largely known for its arid and desert-like terrain, Genoa offers a welcome contrast. At River Fork Ranch, travelers will find an 800-acre preserve of wetlands and wet meadows, providing an essential habitat for species like leopard frogs, pond turtles, bald eagles, and monarch butterflies. Visiting the Genoa Trail System is another great way to get a sense for Genoa’s natural beauty. These trails, which spread for over 17 miles, are open for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, winding through a variety of landscapes and elevations. To unwind after a day of exploration, grab a drink at the Genoa Bar & Saloon, which was first established in 1853 and is the oldest bar in Nevada!

Incline Village

Located along the northern shores of Lake Tahoe, Incline Village is the ultimate town to visit in Nevada for a lakeside vacation. Sand Harbor Beach is an excellent place to spend a sunny afternoon, known for its pristine blue waters and swimming, sunbathing, and hiking opportunities. Travelers hoping to get out on the water can arrange a rental with Tahoe Blue Boat Rentals, which has been operating in the community for over 10 years, renting pontoon and speed boats. If you enjoy golfing, check out the Incline Village Mountain Golf Course as well. This course, surrounded by old-growth trees, consists of 18 holes and offers some great elevation changes and beautiful views of the Sierra Nevada range.

Elko

Combine cowboy culture with scenic byways and beautiful recreation areas, and you have the town of Elko. Several natural attractions are just a short drive away, such as the Lamoille Canyon Scenic Byway, which lies about 25 miles from town. Here, visitors will find a sheer-walled canyon home to mountain goats, bighorn sheep, mule deer, and other mountain wildlife. The South Fork State Recreation Area is just a 20-minute drive from town as well, featuring a large reservoir that is popular for fishing for catfish, trout, and bass. Those interested in learning more about what it is like to be a cowboy should stop by the Western Folklife Center, which hosts the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering, workshops, concerts, readings, and other cultural activities.

Panaca

Home to fewer than 1,300 residents, Panaca may not seem to have a lot of attractions on the surface. However, surrounding the town, you will find natural springs, state parks, gorges, and canyons. Cathedral Gorge State Park is one of Panaca’s main draws, sitting in a narrow valley carved from soft bentonite clay. Camping, hiking, and picnicking are some of the best ways to enjoy this unique terrain, with many of the hiking trails winding past cathedral-like spires and cave formations. Just a four-minute drive north of town, meanwhile, travelers will reach Panaca Warm Springs, which makes for a great place to soak in the summer months. Travelers looking for a place to spend the night can lodge at the Pine Tree Inn, a cozy bed and breakfast on the edge of town that serves a full hot breakfast each morning.

Ely

Sitting along the edge of the “Loneliest Road in America,” Ely has a remote and rugged beauty that travelers should not miss. Cave Lake State Park is just an 18-minute drive southeast, featuring a 32-acre reservoir that is known for its German brown trout and rainbow trout fishing opportunities. Golfers, meanwhile, will enjoy an afternoon at the White Pine County Golf Course, recognized for its isolated and peaceful location in the countryside. Travelers interested in exploring Ely’s historical and cultural scene should plan an afternoon at the Renaissance Village, exhibiting several historic miners' cabins that have been repurposed into cultural centers.

Baker

Baker is right at the doorstep of Great Basin National Park, making it another must-visit for nature lovers. Throughout the park, travelers will encounter sagebrush-covered foothills, bristlecone pines, and a 13,063-foot peak, all accessible by dozens of miles of hiking trails. Lehman Caves, the longest cave system in Nevada, is also located within the park and can be explored on a ranger-guided tour. As they wander through the passageways, visitors will be able to admire marble rock with formations like stalagmites, stalactites, popcorn, and cave bacon. For a hearty meal, head back in town to dine at one of the local cafes or restaurants. Sugar, Salt, & Malt is a cozy sit-down restaurant to check out, serving mouthwatering brisket, pizza, pasta, and burgers.

Gerlach

Home to only about 50 residents, Gerlach is another one of the tiny towns surrounded by natural wonders. The town serves as a basecamp to the Black Rock Desert, an 800,000-acre national conservation area and national wilderness area that is filled with rugged canyons, dry lake beds, and refreshing hot springs. Those looking to explore this remote area will find camping and off-roading among the most popular activities. On select Saturdays in spring, summer, and fall, travelers can join a Fly Ranch Nature Walk, hosted by Friends of Black Rock-High Rock, to experience the geothermal marvels of Fly Geysers. For a bit of western spirit, grab some grub at Bruno’s Country Club, a family-style restaurant that serves burritos, sliced sirloin, chili, and other southwestern favorites.

Final Thoughts

Nevada is brimming with beautiful places. If you are having a hard time deciding where to start your adventure, these seven towns should help to guide you in the right direction. Some lie near national parks, while others feature beaches, wetlands, and mineral springs. You are sure to find some pretty tasty restaurants in each destination, too! No matter which town catches your eye, you are in for a truly memorable vacation.