PEAKLIFE

From human-powered sports and art galleries to wildlife and music festivals — Nevada’s natural wonders and eclectic culture further its “Don’t Fence Me In” attitude this fall

TravelNevada debuts five fall experiences in five Nevada territories, encouraging travellers to adventure through the “Alps of America,” discover the eccentric desert art and rich history of boomtowns, embrace Nevada’s quirky nature, and celebrate the state’s 154th birthday.

Signature fall events and activities include the Eldorado Great Italian Festival and the National Championship Air Races in Reno; the Candy Dance in Genoa, and various fall festivals throughout the state.

Cowboy Country (Northern Nevada)

The World Human Powered Speed Challenge at Battle Mountain hosts the world’s fastest bicycle race, attempting to break the record of 89.59 mph. The region’s thin air, which reduces aerodynamic drag, and arrow-straight pavement draws athletes from around the world to test their self-made speed bike designs and sprinting abilities.For a more relaxed experience, hikers, bikers, and climbers can take a day trip to Liberty Lake in the Ruby Mountains for its stunning fall vistas and alpine trout fishing. In the Jarbidge Wilderness north of Elko, explore the mountains and Emerald Lake. Fall is also prime hunting season for a small and big game, including Himalayan snowcock and mule deer.

Pony Express Territory (North Central Nevada)

History and art abound in Nevada’s Pony Express Territory, from a natural phenomenon to man-made beauty. First, take a trip to Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge in Fallon, where thousands of shorebirds make a stop on their migratory route in the fall. Built in 1914, the Oats Park Arts Centre serves as a performance art hub, hosting nationally acclaimed vocal artists, performers, speakers, and musicians. Experience three museum-like galleries and sip on a frosty beverage at the Art Bar. In Eureka, the restored Eureka Opera House dates back to 1880; here, visitors can catch a concert or theatre performance while contemplating the town’s golden era. Ely’s Renaissance Village celebrates the town’s history with an outdoor art gallery featuring murals and sculptures. At the McGill Drugstore Museum, get a personalized and extensive journey through the fascinating history of the once booming community.

 Nevada Silver Trails (Central Nevada)

Experience the best of Nevada’s quirkiness at coffin shops, car forests and ghost towns. Just outside of Goldfield, discover the International Car Forest, a whimsical display of rusted, painted cars planted nose-down in Nevada soil; or see more desert art at the Goldwell Open-Air Museum. Travelers looking for an overnight experience can stay in an old miner’s cabin at the Gold Point Ghost Town B&B. In Beatty, witness the famous tricycle and bed races and a 1900s re-enactment during the Beatty Days Festival (October 26 – 28, 2018).

The cooler fall temperatures make it essential to explore Death Valley National Park’s deep sand dunes, native wildlife, and colorful rocks and canyons. Adventurers can reward themselves after a day of exploring Nevada with a luxurious stay at Queensland Vineyard Bed and Breakfast in Fish Lake Valley, home to eight varieties of wine grapes and four varieties of lavender. Top off a cool fall night with a relaxing dip in the Fish Lake Valley Hot Springs.

Reno-Tahoe (Northwestern Nevada)

Lake Tahoe, North America’s largest alpine lake, boasts peaceful beaches, colourful fall vistas, and dual sport day opportunities. Get on the lake with a sunset or full moon kayak tour or enjoy a boat cruise along the lake’s stunning shoreline. Venture east to Genoa for the annual Candy Dance; the town also is home to Nevada’s oldest saloon. Hunt for ghosts in Virginia City, one of three of the most haunted towns in the country; and while you’re there, participate in the legendary World Championship Outhouse Races. On Nevada Day, celebrate the state’s 154th birthday with the annual party on main street Carson City.

 Las Vegas Territory (Southern Nevada)

Take advantage of the fall temperatures and make a trip to Mount Charleston, the state’s fifth largest peak, for hiking and leaf-peeping adventures. Rock enthusiasts can venture into Valley of Fire State Park or Red Rock Canyon for spectacular sandstone rock formations and world-class climbing. Experience the living museum that is Springs Preserve, which offers new fall exhibits in addition to its botanical gardens and interpretive wetland habitat. At the Fremont Street Experience in Las Vegas, visitors can zip line under an LED canopy, listen to live music, meet celebrity impersonators, and congratulate newlyweds. Fremont Street also hosts the Life is Beautiful Music and Art Festival, encompassing music, food, art, and learning.