Nevada is home to many incredible natural wonders. Some are tucked away in secluded areas, while others are popular tourist attractions. What if I were to tell you that you could visit some of Nevada’s most incredible natural wonders in a weekend road trip? Pretty awesome, right?
Even though there are many natural wonders located throughout the Silver State, here at Only In Nevada, we selected a few in the Southern region of the state that could easily be visited during an extended weekend (Friday-Monday). Listed below is a mapped route of these natural wonders, in addition to hotels and restaurants.
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As you can see, the total mileage for this ultimate Nevada natural wonders road trip is 854 miles, with an estimated drive time of 14 hours and 36 minutes. That’s not too bad, considering it’s stretched out over an extended weekend. You can view the actual Google map here.
Now, let’s take a look at some of Nevada’s most incredible natural wonders that are perfect for an ultimate road trip:
It's Friday morning, and what better way to begin your weekend road trip than by exploring Great Basin National Park? This beautiful park was established in 1986 and is located in White Pine County, five miles west of the town of Baker. It's the perfect place for exploring many natural wonders, including Wheeler Peak and Lehman Caves (pictured).
After finishing the day exploring Great Basin National Park, the perfect place to stay is Ely's historic Hotel Nevada and Gambling Hall. This historic hotel and gambling hall features 67 updated rooms/suites and the only 24-hour restaurant in Ely, which is a great place to enjoy a delicious dinner. The restaurant also serves an incredible breakfast, so be sure to take advantage of that before checking out and venturing to Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge. Hotel Nevada and Gambling Hall is located at 501 Aultman St., Ely, NV 89301.
It's Saturday morning and as you're venturing to Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, you suddenly arrive in Goldfield, craving a delicious lunch. The best place to satisfy your craving is the Santa Fe Motel & Saloon. Having been in operation since 1905, the Santa Fe Motel & Saloon is one of the oldest continuously operating businesses in Goldfield. Be sure to try their pizza. It's a simple dish with lots of flavor. Best of all, it'll give you the right amount of energy to continue your road trip. The Santa Fe Motel & Saloon is located at 925 N Fifth Ave., Goldfield, NV 89019.
While continuing your scenic drive, you finally arrive to Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, a 23,000-acre protected wildlife refuge located in the Amargosa Valley of southern Nye County. It's one of the most beautiful areas of Nevada you'll ever explore. Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge is located at 610 Spring Meadows Rd., Amargosa Valley, NV 89020.
Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge was definitely worth the visit, but now it's time to continue your road trip. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is the next big stop, but of course you can't do everything in one day. Now's a great time to check in for some rest and relaxation at Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa. The amenities at this luxurious hotel can't be beat, including their famous Feast Buffet. So, check in, enjoy a delicious dinner, and get plenty of rest because you'll be exploring Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area and Valley of Fire State Park tomorrow. Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa is located at 11011 W Charleston Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89135.
It's Sunday morning and after checking out of your hotel and enjoying a quick breakfast, you finally arrive to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. Red Rock Canyon was designated as Nevada's first National Conservation Area. You'll enjoy hiking this area while viewing the incredible plant and animal life that surrounds you. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is located about 20 miles from the Las Vegas Strip.
It's now time to skip on over to Valley of Fire State Park. Dedicated in 1935, Valley of Fire is Nevada’s oldest and largest state park. You'll have a blast exploring this scenic area. Don't forget to take a picnic break during lunchtime. There aren't too many things that can beat a lunchtime picnic. Valley of Fire State Park offers amazing photography opportunities, so don't forget to bring along your camera. Valley of Fire State Park is located at 29450 Valley of Fire Rd., Moapa Valley, NV 89040.
Sadly, your road trip is coming to an end. You've just finished exploring Valley of Fire State Park and need somewhere to stay for the night before returning home tomorrow (Monday). One of the best places to stay is North Shore Inn at Lake Mead. After checking in, you'll want to grab some dinner. I suggest La Fonda, the Mexican restaurant located across the highway from the hotel. The food and service are both excellent! Before checking out tomorrow morning (Monday), be sure to take advantage of the hotel's free breakfast buffet. You'll definitely want to start your day off right with a delicious breakfast. North Shore Inn at Lake Mead is located at 520 N Moapa Valley Blvd., Overton, NV 89040.
So, are you up for this ultimate road trip? Which of these natural wonders have you visited? Let us know in the comments below!
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