You Won't Believe This Town Is In Nevada
Nevada, averaging only about 10 inches of rain per year, holds the title of driest state in the country. Desert dominates much of its landscape, but at the base of the Sierra Nevada lies a town that defies expectations with its lush wetlands and refreshing hot springs. That town is Genoa. Adding to its interesting distinctions, Genoa is also the oldest non-native settlement in Nevada. If you are looking to explore one of the state’s most distinctive destinations, this scenic Sierra Nevada town is sure to challenge your expectations.
Genoa's Wetlands and Trails
One of the best places to experience the lush ecosystems of Genoa is at River Fork Ranch. This 800-acre preserve sits at the meeting point of the east and west forks of the Carson River, containing wetlands, wet meadows, and pastures. A number of important species call the riparian reserve home, including bald eagles, leopard frogs, pond turtles, monarch butterflies, sandhill cranes, and mule deer. Travelers wanting to explore this unique habitat for themselves can do so via an extensive trail network that extends throughout the preserve, popular for hiking, running, and mountain biking. Shade is limited, so make sure to arrive with plenty of water, sunscreen, and snacks!
In addition to the wetland habitats found in River Fork Ranch, visitors can appreciate Genoa’s location in the Sierra Nevadas by exploring the Genoa Trail System. This system features roughly 17 miles of trails in the Genoa area, suitable for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. Travelers up for a challenging, yet rewarding hike will enjoy the Sierra Canyon Trail. Extending 10 miles one way, this trail, which has significant elevation gains and losses, leads to the Tahoe Rim Trail. Upon reaching the trailhead for Tahoe Rim Trail, travelers will need to hike for about another mile to reach a magnificent view of the lake, so make sure to plan a full day for this hike.
Hot Springs
If the town’s wetlands and mountain views were not enough, it also offers some of the most refreshing hot springs. Travelers will find these warm waters at Holiday Inn Club Vacations David Walley's Resort, which has been preserving the area’s mineral waters for nearly 160 years. Even Mark Twain had good things to say about the springs after visiting them in 1887! The history of these springs dates back to the 1850s, when a New Yorker named David Walley arrived in the area, discovering the springs after digging a tunnel directly across from them. Following his discovery, he quickly purchased the property, charging 50 cents per bath back then.
Today, travelers who visit the springs can relax in one of five on-site mineral pools, ranging in temperature between 98 and 104℉. The geothermal waters feeding the springs rise naturally from the Earth’s mantle and refresh every two to three hours, keeping them consistently fresh. A restaurant, saloon, and a variety of mountain lodging options make it easy for visitors to spend an entire weekend right on the premises.
Nevada’s First Non-Native Settlement
Another distinguishing feature of Genoa is its history. This town, which dates back to 1851, was founded by John Reese and his men as a trading post and is the oldest non-native settlement in the state. Travelers interested in learning more about these centuries of history can add the Mormon Station State Historic Park to their itinerary. Here, a reconstructed replica stands in place of the original fort, which was lost to a fire in 1910. Visitors can also visit the park’s historical museum, which contains an impressive collection of authentic pioneer-era artifacts.
Other attractions in the park include a stockade and wagon shed, as well as the historic Campbell Homestead. This homestead gives visitors an idea of what life was like during the early and mid-20th century, complete with features like a small apple orchard, a small vegetable garden, a blacksmith shop, and a 20th-century chicken house. Travelers can explore the park via a short, self-guided tour that meanders along a half-mile-long, accessible walking path that contains several educational signs and exhibits along the way.
A Different Side of Nevada
Nevada is home to a wide range of towns, and Genoa is proof of that diversity. Visitors can explore the area’s biodiverse ecosystems at River Fork Ranch, or hike out to the rim of Lake Tahoe along the Sierra Canyon and Tahoe Rim trails. For a more laid-back weekend, meanwhile, the hot springs at David Walley’s Resort await. Regardless of how you decide to fill your itinerary in Genoa, you will likely leave with a deeper appreciation of everything Nevada offers.
