Nevada’s State Railroad Museum in Carson City brings to life the colorful era of railroading that helped shape the Silver State. The railroads once knitted together the fabric of civilization covering settled places across vast distances in Nevada. The museum preserves and restores vintage locomotives, self-powered rail cars and varied rolling stock from 19th century railroads in Nevada, especially the Virginia and Truckee Railroad.
Travelers on Nevada’s highways parallel historic trails established by explorers and frontiersmen and followed by emigrant trains and commercial traffic as the west was settled. Part of 93 north of Ely and all of US 50 across the middle of the state follows the 402-mile route of the Pony Express, the shortest route cross the vast territory that would become Nevada.
Located enough off the beaten tourist path to discourage many park users, Great Basin National Park in Eastern Nevada remains a largely undiscovered wonderland. It appeals to visitors who prefer to enjoy their outdoor pursuits in relative solitude. The park offers many superlatives, including Nevada’s only glacier, the state’s second-highest mountain peak, some of the oldest trees on the planet and caves filled with rare natural decorations.
A dethroned Central Nevada mining queen, Tonopah preserves her past and regains prestige as a prime location for stargazing. Often considered just a fuel or snack stop along U.S. 95 between Las Vegas and Reno, the old town deserves a closer look. Located 200 miles from Las Vegas at the junction of U.S. 95 and U.S. 6, Tonopah offers overnighters a variety of motels and restaurants.
