Technology is wonderful, but it’s good to step away from the devices and into the great outdoors every so often. With thousands of hiking trails, the country’s darkest skies and unforgettable road trips, the Silver State offers numerous ways to get a little out there (while getting off your device).
Hiking
You’re never too far away from your next hike in Nevada.
The Historic Railroad Tunnel Trail in Boulder City offers sweeping vistas of Lake Mead, Hoover Dam, and tunnels drilled through the mountain. It also provides fascinating facts about the area’s wildlife and landmarks.
Charleston Peak is the tallest mountain range in Clark County and should be experienced. Just 45 minutes northwest of Vegas, the area is popular for backpacking, camping, and hiking. No matter how you enjoy it, expect to see breathtaking views.
Stargazing
Take a break from the city lights. Nevada boasts some of the country’s darkest skies and offers plenty of stargazing opportunities.
A short drive from Ely, Great Basin National Park has been designated an International Dark Sky Park. You can stand nearly anywhere within the park’s boundaries and gaze in awe at the endless space above.
Hot Spring Adventures
There’s no better way to unplug than in one of the state’s more than 300 naturally occurring hot springs.
To get to Gold Strike Hot Spring, part of the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, you must scramble over giant boulders and descend fixed ropes, but reaching this hot spring at the bottom of a scenic canyon is well worth it. Make sure to allot time (and energy!) for the climb out when you’re done.
Wild wonders await at Fish Lake Valley Hot Springs, an hour east of Tonopah. With views of Boundary Peak and unbelievable stargazing, this large spring hovers around 105 degrees, making for a perfect soak any time of year.
Road Trips
Grab some snacks, turn off your phone, and turn the radio on one of Travel Nevada’s curated road trips.
The Death Valley Rally is a classic Nevada road trip with mesmerizing contrasts. You’ll reach the lowest point in North America before touching the sky at Mt. Charleston. Visit biker bars and elegant wineries, and see sprawling dunes and ancient pines.
Go beyond the glow on the Neon to Nature scenic drive. This package of mini road trips highlights Hoover Dam and outdoor havens like Red Rock Canyon and the world-famous Valley of Fire.
Wildlife Encounters
Nevada’s diverse landscapes are home to various wildlife. Visit the state’s wildlife refuges to experience many of them.
About 90 miles northwest of Las Vegas, Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge stuns thanks to its pristine ancient landscapes. Discover meandering boardwalks among true-blue waters, legendary Wild West history, and plants and animals found nowhere else.
Or, make the trek to the Mojave Desert and visit the Moapa Valley National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge was created to protect and preserve the thermal springs flowing through the area, which create a specialized habitat for the endangered Moapa Dace fish.
Whether you seek the tranquility of its remote wilderness areas, the natural glow of the stars, unique road trips, or the allure of adventure, Nevada offers something to help you escape the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary.
Members of the editorial and news staff of the Las Vegas Review-Journal were not involved in the creation of this content.