For a state that most outsiders (not incorrectly) perceive as hot, dusty and arid, Nevada has a surprising amount of water for cooling down ... or heating up, depending on the season.
1. Alpine Lakes Loop
Seeing Nevada
- Splash down in these inviting Nevada water attractions
- Nevada’s Highway 50, the “Loneliest Road in America,” is anything but
- Head out and explore these Nevada state parks
- Make Ely your next Nevada bucket-list destination
- Five great campgrounds within five hours of Las Vegas
- Touring the history of and current attractions in Nevada’s Virginia City
- Where (and how) to go rock hounding in Nevada
- Buried treasure: See a different side of Nevada by touring one of its mines
The Alpine Lakes Loop at Great Basin is a three-mile beginner hike with rewarding views. This trail starts near the Wheeler Peak Campground, takes you through lush forests and passes two main attractions: the Stella and Teresa Lakes. These stunning bodies of water sit above large depressions created by glacier erosion. Both are supplemented by storms and melting snowfall, so spring and summer are optimal times to visit. Bit.ly/3i6tBal.
2. Arizona Hot Spring
Things are heating up, but when temperatures dip, make your way out to the Arizona Hot Spring. This steaming set of pools, fed by a sizzling water source nearby, sits between the walls of a concealed slot canyon by the Hoover Dam. A hiking trail on U.S. 93, just four miles south of the Hoover Dam, will lead you straight to it. You’ll thank us in November. Bit.ly/3i4Pnv6.
3. Black Canyon Water Trail
Those looking for a serene day on the water should look no further than Black Canyon Water Trail. Located 45 minutes from Las Vegas, this 30-mile trail runs between the Hoover Dam and Arizona’s Willow Beach, offering scenic, panoramic views by kayak. There are plenty of beaches and caves to visit as you go, namely Emerald Cave with its stunning jewel-colored waters. Bit.ly/3y6Huux.
4. Pyramid Lake
Pyramid Lake is one of the largest natural lakes in Nevada, and easily its most beautiful. At the center is a wondrous formation of limestone in the shape of a pyramid, hence the name. But this lake isn’t just for looks. It’s a storied fishing spot, acting as the habitat for rare catches like the Cui-ui, a suckerfish that’s existed for more than 2 million years. The Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe has historically managed the lake, adding to its rich history as the last remnant of the ancient Lake Lahontan. Just 40 miles from Reno, this is a must-visit. Pyramidlake.us.
5. Sand Harbor
Sand Harbor is a fan favorite within Lake Tahoe State Park, receiving more than a million visitors every year. The harbor offers 55 acres of sandy beach and limitless water activities. Paddle along the crystal waters with snow-capped mountains in the distance, enjoy the forested shade or brave some cliff diving. Sand Harbor has it all. Bit.ly/3zCDulV.
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