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Nevada is the home of locations that are both dramatic and inspiring. Home of both deserts and green, this state has a deep and meaningful history.

The city of Las Vegas is the starting point for this journey, with all of the everything it has to offer. But the main purpose of this 5-day road trip is to adventure through Nevada’s vast remoteness, to experience the wonder this state has to offer.

Day 1: Las Vegas

Las Vegas is famous and infamous for an abundance of reasons that don’t need to be specified. Whether travelers to Las Vegas wish for a tame or less tame adventure there is a bit for everyone. Some visitors to the city may just want to enjoy the sights and lights and perhaps a lavish dining experience, others may go for something else. Either way, here are some suggestions for the first day of this road trip.

Mon Ami Gabi

This is a delicious French bistro and steakhouse that is quite renowned in Vegas. Enjoy delicious cuisine and even fine wines from their rolling wine cart, before going out and enjoying Las Vegas.

  • Address - 3655 Las Vegas Blvd S Paris Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV 89109-4345
  • Contact - (702)944-4224
  • Cost - $$-$$$
  • Must-Try - Flat-Iron Steak
  • Menu

Tacos El Gordo

There is no wrong time of the day to enjoy Tacos El Gordo. This family-owned and operated company has been part of the industry for 40 years though it first opened in Vegas in 2010. They are well known for their delicious tacos as well as excellent service so be sure to stop by and give them a visit.

  • Address - 3049 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89109-1960
  • Contact - 702-982-5420
  • Cost - $
  • Must-Try - Carne Asada
  • Menu

Day 2: Through Valley of Fire State Park to Cathedral Gorge State Park

For this day, travelers will adventure through two of Nevada’s state Parks, Valley of Fire State Park and Cathedral Gorge State Park. Valley of Fire State Park is a short trip out of Las Vegas and travelers will be able to fit in a morning hike before making the drive to Cathedral Gorge State Park. There, travelers will be able to enjoy their afternoon experiences with the stunning geography and perhaps catch the sunset.

  • Driving Distance - 212 miles, 3 hours 27 minutes
  • Google Maps

Related: Two Weeks of Road Tripping: US Cross Country on I-70 Guide

Valley of Fire State Park

This is Nevada’s oldest and largest state park with connections to early human residences including 3,000-year-old Indian petroglyphs. Take a moment and choose one of the short hiking trail options below to explore this region before continuing your trip.

Cathedral Gorge State Park

This day's afternoon destination is Cathedral Gorge State Park. This park is home to various hiking trails and features such as eroded soft bentonite clay. Travelers may get a little dirty while exploring the region, but fortunately, there are showers and restrooms located on the grounds.

Side Track Restaurant

Here is a little lunch suggestion for travelers on their way to Cathedral Gorge State Park. Well reviewed by the locals, this is a great stop for burgers, pizzas, and even a flavorful salad with quality ingredients. All of this at a good price and conveniently along the route.

  • Address - 190 Clover St, Caliente, NV 89008, United States
  • Contact - (775)726-3164
  • Cost - $-$$

Day 3: Black Rock Desert

This is a long driving day, but the terrain that is traveled through is part of the adventure. Travelers should be sure to leave early, so they leave themselves enough time to enjoy the Black Rock Desert. This site is the famous home of Burning Man as well as the location of land speed tests. There are hot springs in the area as well as campsites. If the plan is to spend the night in the desert, be sure to stock up on some supplies before doing so.

Related: 5-Day Bucket-List Road Trip Circuit: Explore Scenic Maine

Black Rock Hot Springs

The vast wildness and remotes of Black Rock Desert are home to many spectacular locations including Black Rock Hot Springs. Found on the edge of the famous Playa, this is quite a wondrous and remote oasis. It may be fit to find an experienced off-road driver to take you there if that is how you wish to access them.

Black Rock Campsites

There are various locations as well as styles of camping available in the Black Rock Desert. They vary from primitive-style camping to camping out of your car. Here are some options and locations to consider.

Day 4: Lake Tahoe Then to Carson City

At 6,225 feet above sea level, Lake Tahoe offers some of the bluest waters in the midst of the greenest surroundings that can be found anywhere. This leg of the journey, directly after the time spent in the desert, shows the dichotomy of Nevada’s landscape. Take some time and enjoy adventuring the waters before making your way to Carson City to spend your evening.

  • Driving Distance - 201 miles, 4 hours 35 minutes
  • Google Maps

Alpha One Watersports Kayak & Paddleboard Rental & Delivery

Here you can rent a kayak or a paddleboard to venture out onto Lake Tahoe. This is a highly recommended way for a traveler to spend a portion of their day, especially after a night in the desert.

  • Address - 923 Incline Way, Incline Village, NV 89451, United States
  • Contact - 775-413-4463
  • Cost - (Paddle Board) $50 for a day, (Single Kayak) $50 for a day, (Tandem Kayaks) $65 for a day
  • Website

The Basil

The Basil is a Thai-style restaurant out of Carson City with food provided by Chef Nan who strives to serve authentic and quality dishes. This is the perfect destination to refresh after recent adventures.

  • Address - 311 N Carson St, Carson City, NV 89701-4203
  • Contact - (775)841-6100
  • Cost - $$-$$$
  • Must-Try - Spicy Noodle with Chicken and Shrimp
  • Social Media

Day 5: Back to Las Vegas

After these past few days of adventures, it is time for travelers to make their way back to Las Vegas. But, there's still some time before marking the official end of this journey. Go out and enjoy Las Vegas one more time!

  • Driving Distance - 431 miles, 6 hr 54 min
  • Google Maps
  • Total Driving Distance - 1,332 miles
  • Total Driving Time - 23 hours 14 minutes
  • Route Map