For those seeking off-the-beaten-path outdoor adventures and unforgettable experiences, Travel Nevada has compiled a top 10 “Out There” experiences that every visitor should add to their bucket list.
From the thrill of heli-skiing in the Ruby Mountains, skydiving over Hoover Dam, tranquil dark sky viewing at Massacre Rim, to discovering some of the oldest petroglyphs on the continent – there is something for every type of explorer.
Nevada, affectionately known as the “Silver State”, offers more than 60 million acres of public land – the most of any U.S. state – open for outdoor recreation opportunities. The curation of this list is only the tipping point to the possibilities for adventure available.
Check out Nevada’s top 10 “Out There” adventures, including:
1 – Heli-ski in the Ruby Mountains
Heli-skiing at Ruby 360 Lodge in Lamoille offers an exclusive gateway to untouched powder in the Ruby Mountains amid breathtaking alpine scenery, with access to vast terrain, expert guides, and authentic hospitality.
2 – Glide across the crystal waters of South Lake Tahoe
Explore one of the clearest bodies of water on earth, whether on a stand-up-paddle board, or guided tour from a clear-bottomed kayak with Clearly Tahoe Kayak Tours. There’s no better way to take in the Caribbean-esque majesty of Big Blue.
3 – Delight in the darkest skies at Massacre Rim
This area in Northwestern Nevada is recognised by the DarkSky International as one of the darkest places on Earth, offering unparalleled stargazing due to minimal light pollution
4 – Mountain bike a bucket-list terrain
Home to the Great Basin National Park, Ely is celebrated by mountain bikers as a dream destination. Dozens of trails beckon riders at Ward Mountain Recreation Area, Cave Lake State Park, and more.
5 – Mine the rarest gemstones
As the only place in North America to find this extremely precious, very rare opalised prehistoric wood, it’s no wonder Virgin Valley black fire opal is Nevada’s state gemstone. Visitors can sink a pick-axe and try their luck mining for their own at Northwestern Nevada’s Bonanza, Rainbow Ridge, and Royal Peacock opal mines.
6 – Climb the ” World’s Tallest Outdoor Climbing Wall”
Scale the 16-story side of the Whitney Peak Hotel up to an impressive 164 feet over the top of the iconic downtown Reno Arch. For those looking to stay a little closer to the ground, head for BaseCamp Reno’s 7,000 square-foot indoor bouldering park inside the hotel
7 – Zip line above the world’s largest concentration of LED lights in downtown Las Vegas
Fremont Street Experience’s SlotZilla Zip Line launches riders off a 12-story tower. Thrill-seekers can begin at 77 or 114 feet before soaring superhero-style beneath the 49 million LED canopy and quirky Downtown entrainers below.
8 – Skydive over Hoover Dam
With Skydive Las Vegas, free fall at speed while enjoying incredible views of places like Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, Colorado River, Las Vegas Strip, Valley of Fire, Red Rock Canyon and Mt. Charleston.
9 – Discover the oldest petroglyphs and most vibrant pictographs on the contient
On the outskirts of Austin, visitors to Toquima Cave can marvel at spectacular petroglyphs and the continent’s most prime pictographs, thanks to their immaculate preservation and distinct use of black, red and yellow.
10 – Pair paranormal vibes with panoramic hot springs
Begin by exploring Gold Point Ghost Town, a well-preserved mining town offering a glimpse into the past with its rustic cabins, saloon, and rich history. After soaking in the spooky vibes and nostalgia, head to Fish Lake Valley Hot Springs, where soothing natural pools and sweeping desert views provide the perfect retreat.
Ready to “Get a Little Out There” Nevada style? For an adrenaline-filled adventure, start planning at travelnevada.com
