Nevada is a big ol’ state, so it’s no wonder we’re home to some of the most amazing scenic drives in the country. If you consider yourself an adventurer, there’s no doubt you’ve heard of iconic drives like America’s Loneliest Road (Highway 50) or the Extraterrestrial Highway (State Route 375). Those are just a few of our state’s most famous scenic drives. However, there are plenty of lesser-known drives that are just as worthy of being explored.The beautiful 100-mile drive featured here lets you explore a side of Nevada that few people are even aware exists. Fuel up your car and get ready to take off on one of the most epic adventures in the state.
Nevada's State Route 376 is also known as the Big Smoky Valley Scenic Drive. This 100-mile adventure will take you through a landscape that isn't very well-known, but it should be. This area is perfectly remote, gorgeous, and full of some interesting attractions.
Of course, the highlight of this spectacular drive is Big Smoky Valley, which is bound to surprise you with its immense beauty. The valley is located between the Toiyabe and Toquima mountain ranges and it's one of the most underrated sights in the state.
State Route 376 is located in central Nevada and connects Highway 6 near Tonopah to Highway 50 near Austin. As you drive through the valley, you'll be overcome by a unique landscape that boasts towering mountains in the distance. Some of these mountains boast peaks 5,000-feet-high.
As you drive along this long and remote road, you'll come across all sorts of gems hiding in the desert. For instance, it's hard to miss the massive open-pit gold mine located near the town of Round Mountain. Located right along the highway, this gigantic pit is a somewhat shocking sight in the middle of this desolate region.
You'll find that traffic is pretty much non-existent along the highway. The valley is home to a handful of small towns such as Carvers, but otherwise this stretch of highway is nice and quiet. That's just how we like to enjoy a long, scenic drive!
One of the more charming communities in the valley is Kingston. This is the type of small town you stumble upon on a whim, but end up pleasantly surprised. The town is home to just two businesses: Zach’s Lucky Spur Saloon (a charismatic Western-inspired bar) and Miles End Bed and Breakfast.
As the 100-mile road begins to run out, you should definitely take a few hours to soak in the perfectly serene Spencer Hot Springs. Soak in one of the three giant metal tubs while taking in one of our famous Nevada sunsets.
The Big Smoky Valley Scenic Drive is criminally underrated when it comes to road trip destinations. Boasting epic scenery, charming small towns, and plenty of opportunities for some off-road adventures, this is 100 miles of fantastic fun that you won't soon forget.
Did you know this scenic drive even existed? Sometimes it really pays to go off the beaten path. Ready for more off-grid adventures? Check out the 8 Best Backroads In Nevada For A Scenic Drive for more.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
