10 Best Scenic Drives in Nevada

Nevada is mostly desert, but that doesn't mean there's nothing to see. Over thousands—even millions—of years, natural phenomena such as erosion, strong winds, and heavy rains have made the land of this state what it is today. From extraordinary geological formations to incredibly blue waters, Nevada proves that desert doesn't mean a lack of beauty or attractions. In fact, everything is the opposite. See for yourself all the splendor of this state, starting with one of these picturesque places in Nevada:

No. 10 - Scenic Road to Mount Rose.

Flickr User: Robert Bless

Start Location: Reno, Nevada

Final location: Lake Tahoe, Nevada

Length: Mile 37

Best driving season: All

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No trip to Nevada is complete without a glimpse of ultra-blue Lake Tahoe, and this particular itinerary is full of scenes that delight the eye along the way. The ride begins with a steep climb through the desert and into the mountains with stunning views of the landscape below, then abruptly cuts into dense forests on the rocky slopes. Stop at Incline Village for a view of Lake Tahoe below, perfect for taking photos or just to soothe your soul.

#9 – Gora Charleston Loop

Flickr User: Ken Lund

Start Location: Las Vegas, Nevada

Final location: Las Vegas, Nevada

Length: Mile 59

Best driving season: All

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Beginning and ending on the outskirts of the city that never sleeps, this drive provides a pleasant retreat from the flashing lights and the sounds of slot machines. The route goes right through the heart of the Charleston wilderness, where there are many trails that you can explore on foot or even on horseback. During the winter months, sports enthusiasts can stop and ski on the slopes of the Las Vegas ski and snowboard resort along the way.

No. 8 - Walker River Scenic Road.

Flickr user: BLM Nevada

Start Location: Yerington, Nevada

Final location: Hawthorne, Nevada

Length: Mile 57

Best driving season: All

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Stock up on fuel and snacks before heading out on a scenic drive that pretty much meanders the East Walker River and past Walker Lake. There are no cities between Yerington and Hawthorne, and little sign of civilization except for a small number of ranches in the foothills of the Wassuk Range. However, those who take this route will get unparalleled views of the 11,239-foot-tall Grant Mountain, the largest mountain in the area.

#7 - Rainbow Canyon Scenic Drive.

Flickr User: John Fowler

Start Location: Caliente, Nevada

Final location: Elgin, N.V.

Length: Mile 22

Best driving season: All

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Nestled between Delamar and Clover Mountains, this ride through the deep Rainbow Canyon features many colorful rocks on both sides of the road. One of the most unusual sights along the way is a scattering of poplar trees fed by trickling streams from the Meadow Valley Wash in the desert area. For those who want to go hiking or camping, the nearby Clover Mountains Wildlife Area is a great place.

No. 6 - Scenic Drive on Angel Lake.

Flickr User: Laura Gilmour

Start Location: Wells, N.V.

Final location: Angel Lake, Nevada

Length: Mile 13

Best driving season: Spring, summer and autumn

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While this route is relatively short, it is not without panoramic views of the Humboldt Mountains, making it worth a detour (jacket in tow) for travelers in the area. It's not a region that attracts many tourists, and locals rarely visit outside of the summer months due to year-round low temperatures. At the end of the path is Angel Lake, surprisingly clear when it is not covered in ice.

No. 5 - Big Smoky Valley Scenic Road.

Flickr User: Ken Lund

Start Location: Tonopah, Nevada

Final location: Austin, Nevada

Length: Mile 118

Best driving season: All

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Nestled between the high Toiyabe Range and the slightly more remote Tokima Range, there is no shortage of mountain views on this relatively deserted route. However, travelers will have several opportunities to fuel up and explore the small and strangely quaint towns of Hadley, Carvers and Kingston. Stop near Hadley for a look at the giant gold mine and fantasize about taking some of the loot with you as a souvenir.

#4 - Valley of Fire Highway

Flickr user: Fred Moore.

Start Location: Moab Valley, Nevada

Final location: Crystal, HB

Length: Mile 36

Best driving season: All

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On this journey through Valley of Fire State Park, travelers will see fascinating red sandstone formations carved by the elements over millennia. Take time to stop and see some of these unusual rocks up close, especially at Elephant Rock Vista and Seven Sisters Vista. Walk one mile through the petroglyphic canyon to see ancient Native American rock art that managed to survive harsh conditions and countless generations.

No. 3 - Lamoille Canyon Scenic Lane.

Flickr User: Antti

Start Location: Lamoille, Nevada

Final location: Elko, NV

Length: Mile 20

Best driving season: Spring, summer and autumn

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Hidden among the Ruby Mountains, travelers will be in awe of the panoramic views, year-round snowfields, and cascading waterfalls as travelers make their way through this canyon. Relax in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, walk along the trail or take a closer look at the landscape. The terraced picnic area is another good place to find trails or just hang out among the willow and aspen trees.

#2 - Red Rock Canyon Loop

Flickr User: Bureau of Land Management

Start Location: Las Vegas, Nevada

Final location: Las Vegas, Nevada

Length: Mile 49

Best driving season: All

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Fortune-seeking visitors can take a break from the strip to see geological wonders such as sandstone cliffs and interesting rock formations on this loop through Red Rock Canyon. Stop at the Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center and learn more about the region's history and local wildlife to better appreciate the sights. Hiking trails abound, with the four-mile White Rock and Willow Springs Trail being one of the most popular, and don't miss a photo opportunity in Red Rock Canyon.

No. 1 - Pyramid Lake Scenic Lane.

Flickr User: Israel De Alba

Start Location: Spanish Springs, Nevada

Final location: Fernley, Nevada

Length: Mile 55

Best driving season: All

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Although this road is located right in the middle of the desert, the route passes through a variety of terrain, starting from the mountains of Virginia and ending with a descent to the ultra-blue Pyramid Lake. Natural tufa rock formations along the way make for stunning photo opportunities. Bird lovers can take a short binocular-in-hand tour over the Anaho Island National Wildlife Refuge to see a variety of migratory birds and a large colony of American white pelicans. In Nixon, stop at the Pyramid Lake Museum and Visitor Center to learn more about the area.