Exploring the Silver State is always an exciting adventure, especially when you go off-the-beaten path to those lesser-known spots that most people don’t even know exist. Nevada’s a pretty huge state, so you can only imagine the amazing hidden gems that can be found if you’re willing to go the extra mile! Lucky for you, we’ve compiled a nearly 400-mile trek to some of the best little-known spots in the state. From bizarre geysers in the desert to tranquil alpine beaches, this trip is a testament to the fact that you never really know what you’re gonna get when you hit the road to the hidden gems in Nevada.

GoogleMaps
The Nevada Hidden Gems Road Trip is a 395-mile adventure that clocks in at over eight hours of driving time. Spread it out across a weekend (or an entire week), and customize the trip to your liking HERE.
We're kicking off our adventure at a remote hot spring in northern Nevada. Are you ready to relax? We sure hope so!
89404, Denio, NV 89404, USA
David H Steinbrugge/Google
Bog Hot Springs can be found in a remote destination near the Oregon-Nevada border. Located in an area so rarely traversed, you'll find ultimate tranquility awaiting you here. The soaking area consists of a creek that's been dammed to form soaking pools. The water is cooler the more downstream you are, so simply adjust your position to find the exact right temperature for you. Check out our previous article to learn about the heaven that is Bog Hot Springs.
After soaking our worries away, we're headed to one of the weirdest sights in all of Nevada: Fly Geyser.
Gerlach, NV 89412, USA
Geo Thermal/Flickr
Located on the edge of the Black Rock Desert, Fly Geyser is a sight, unlike anything you've seen before. The man-made geyser boasts the most extraordinary combination of colors including shades of green, red, and yellow. Created in 1964 when a geothermal power company drilled a test well into the ground, the strange coloring is the result of calcium carbonate deposits. Fly Geyser is not available to public access. However, you can schedule a guided nature walk to get an up-close view of it. Otherwise, you can observe the geyser from afar. Read more about Fly Geyser here.

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Next, we're headed out of the desert and into the city with a visit to Oxbow Nature Study Area in Reno.
3100 Dickerson Rd, Reno, NV 89503, USA
Scott P/TripAdvisor
This beautiful natural area is hiding just a mile away from bustling downtown Reno. It's located right on the Truckee River - perfect for when you need to escape the city crowds. Open-year round, the 22-acre conservation area is home to a variety of native Nevadan habitats and wildlife. Let yourself get lost in this gem of a park in between exploring what Reno has to offer! Read more about Oxbow Nature Study Area and what it offers here.
For our next stop, we'll pedal our way through history with a railbike adventure through Carson Canyon.
4650 Eastgate Siding Rd, Carson City, NV 89701, USA
V&T Railway
V&T Railway in Carson City offers a pedal-powered tour along the historic Virginia & Truckee train route. Hop into one of the railway's motor-assisted, pedal railbikes and prepare for a journey like no other! Your trip will consist of going through the Carson River Canyon, across the V&T Railway highway bridge, and to the Halfway House Stage Stop. Combining history with scenic natural beauty, this is a special experience you won't soon forget. Get ready for your railbike adventure and check out our previous article to learn more.
It's time for a beach day, don't you think? Our next step is Nevada Beach at Lake Tahoe, just two miles east of the Nevada-California border.
416 Bittlers Rd, Zephyr Cove, NV 89448
Scott Baldwin/Flickr
At nearly a mile long, Nevada Beach is notable for its pristine water and gorgeous white sand. Soak up views of Mount Tallac and Heavenly Ski Resort from the beach's sandy shoreline. You can even turn it into an overnight adventure by grabbing a campsite at Nevada Beach campground. Each campsite comes with a picnic table, grill, campfire ring, and food storage locker. Tahoe's alpine water is famously cold year-round but a quick dip is always good for the soul. Read up on Nevada Beach here.
Our last hidden gem is a good one. The small town of Genoa is a blissful destination where you'll find small-town charm, history, and endless scenic beauty.
Genoa, NV, USA
L Zecchino?Google
Considered Nevada's very first settlement, visiting Genoa is bound to charm you and fill you with nostalgia. Walking along Genoa's streets, you'll see that much of the town looks like it hasn't changed a bit over the last century and a half. The town's historic district encompasses 130 acres and includes historic buildings that date back to the Old West days. Be sure to stop at the Genoa Bar and Saloon for refreshment during your visit - it's considered the oldest drinking parlor in Nevada! Learn all about Genoa and why this historic town is a must-visit here.

What do you think? Are you ready to set off on this trip to Nevada’s best-hidden gems? Take a look at 10 of the Great Basin National Park’s hidden gems. Share your favorite stops with us in the comments below!

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More to Explore

Places To Visit In Nevada

William Suphan | November 14, 2022

What are the top-rated attractions in Nevada?

These are the top-rated attractions in Nevada:

  • Hoover Dam. This 726-foot-high dam containing lake Mead was built during the Great Depression as a way to create jobs. It currently provides hydroelectric power to Nevada, Arizona, and California.
  • Lake Tahoe. This freshwater lake is 22 miles long and is located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It is the most popular lake in the state.
  • Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. A short distance from Las Vegas, this popular hiking area in the Mojave Desert is a local favorite.

Here are 10 man-made top-rated attractions in Nevada. 

What are the best natural wonders in Nevada?

These are some of the best natural wonders in Nevada:

  • Pyramid Lake. At 125,000 acres, this is one of the largest natural lakes in Nevada. It is known for its interesting rock formations and as a popular fishing spot.
  • Lehman Caves. This massive cave system is a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike.
  • Valley of Fire. Located in Clark County, the multicolored sandstone rock formations bring visitors from all around. The park has many hiking trails and campgrounds.
  • Wheeler Peak. As part of the Great Basin National Park, this is the second-tallest mountain in Nevada and is a favorite of photographers.

Here are more of the best natural wonders in Nevada. 

What are the best small towns in Nevada to visit?

These are some of the best small towns in Nevada:

  • Virginia City. This city started as a boomtown in 1859 after the Comstock Lode, America’s first major silver deposit was discovered.
  • Ely. With a population of about 4,000 people, this was originally a stagecoach station for the Pony Express and resides at the base of the Great Basin National Park.
  • Caliente. Known for its nearby hot springs, this small town has historic railroad cottages and the Union Pacific Train Depot.

Here are seven more of the best small towns in Nevada. 

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