You don’t have to go out of state to find all kinds of natural beauty. Vast deserts and epic rock formations? Of course. Parks and gardens full of flowers and foliage? We’ve got them. Scenic drives and hiking trails? Yes, we have plenty. And waterfalls, lakes, and beaches? Well, as a matter of fact, we have all that, too. If you are ready to spend the weekend enjoying some amazing outdoor adventures and activities in Nevada, you are going to love this two-day itinerary we have put together.
From national parks and campgrounds to waterfalls, canyons, and more, there is so much to love about America’s natural splendor — and June, designated as Great Outdoors Month, is the perfect time to get outside.
This route takes you to some of the most beautiful places to immerse yourself in natural beauty in western Nevada. With just over one hour of actual driving time (aside from the drive to your starting point) and only a few select stopping points, this weekend trip itinerary gives you plenty of time to wander, explore, and revel in the great outdoors.
Wander Through The Gardens At Wilbur D. May Arboretum and Botanical Garden
The first part of your trip begins at the Wilbur D. May Arboretum and Botanical Garden, located in Rancho San Rafael Regional Park.
Whether you enjoy trees, flowers, waterfalls, or changing colors of fall foliage, you will find yourself in a diverse and colorful world of over 4,600 native and adaptive plant species. Take your time and wander through the various gardens of the arboretum, such as the Songbird Garden, Rose Garden, Honey’s Garden, and Dixie’s Plaza Garden, to name just a few. Explore the Oak and Hardwood groves, Evan’s Creek Wetland Area leading to Herman’s Pond, and more. There are over 25 distinct areas, as well as bridges, waterfalls, and a garden labyrinth to discover.
Hike To Galena Falls At Mount Rose
After a morning in the gardens, you will take one of the Silver State’s official Scenic Byways, Mount Rose Highway, stopping at the Mount Rose Trailhead for a lovely waterfall hike.
The hike to Galena Falls is a moderate, enjoyable hike for explorers of any adventure level. The out-and-back trail that ends at the stunning rocky waterfall is about 4.8 miles and the falls are not the only spectacular view to be had on this hike. Due to the high elevation in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, the trail overlooks the Mount Rose Wilderness and Lake Tahoe along the way. With wildflowers and full-flowing falls in the spring and summer, colorful foliage in the fall, and breathtaking frozen falls in the winter, this family-friendly hike is extraordinary any time of the year. The hike generally takes a couple of hours to complete, so take your time, enjoy the scenery, and feel free to extend the hike if time and energy permits.
See more of the Galena Falls Trail
Dine Al Fresco At Big Water Grille
After your gorgeous hike, make your way along the rest of the scenic byway down to Lake Tahoe’s Incline Village where even dinner is an outdoor celebration.
Tucked into the mountains, surrounded by pine forest, and overlooking Lake Tahoe, Big Water Grille is one of the prettiest places to dine in the area. Enjoy the pristine surroundings while you feast on a seasonal menu of seafood, game, steak, pork chops, risotto, or the Chef’s Pasta Of The Day. You may also want to save a little room for flourless chocolate torte, house-made lemon cheesecake, or cinnamon apple crisp. Between the delicious food and the unbelievable view, you may not want to leave.
Sleep At Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino
The first day of your adventure concludes here at Incline Village where you will rest and recharge for another day outdoors.
The Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort is not just a wonderfully comfortable place to spend the night. It is also one last place to enjoy the outdoors before the day is over. Soak in one of the outdoor hot tubs or walk along the shore as the sun goes down, then grab a spot around the fire pit and make a S’more or two while stargazing. Of course, you can also choose to grab cocktails at the bar or indulge in a massage or body treatment at Stillwater Spa. Sink into your plush Hyatt Grand bed for the night, then power up in the morning with a delicious breakfast, either in your room or on the Sierra Cafe patio in the morning.
Spend The Day At Sand Harbor Beach
Day two is a quintessential Lake Tahoe beach day. From Incline Village, head down south to the beautiful Sand Harbor Beach.
Here on the eastern shore of this famously blue alpine lake, there is no shortage of amazing activities and breathtaking views. You can sunbathe on the shore, swim and float in the crystal-clear water. Rent a kayak, sailing kayak, or stand-up paddleboard to head out and explore the coves and rock formations along the shore. If you are a diver, bring your gear as this is a popular and exciting area for diving. Take a break in the shade under the trees in one of several forested picnic areas. There are food concessions, public restrooms, and walking trails at Sand Harbor Beach, so you can enjoy an entire day here.
Are you ready to celebrate Great Outdoors Month with these fantastic outdoor adventures and activities in Nevada? What are your absolute favorite nature spots to visit in the state? Share them with us in the comments. If you are craving more outdoor inspiration, take a look at these unforgettable scenic drives in Nevada.
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