Nevada Travelogue
Articles
Historical Quotes
By Tom Kirvan
Beyond the glitz, a land of desert majesty
Nevada is a state that conjures up visions of glittering casinos, neon lights, and late nights on the Las Vegas Strip. But beyond the glamour and gambling lies a vast and surprisingly diverse state of stunning desert landscapes, wild mountains, and deep-rooted history. With a population of around 3.2 million people, Nevada offers far more than meets the eye (or tempts the gambling spirit), inviting travelers to explore its rugged terrain, charming ghost towns, and natural wonders.
Located in the far west, Nevada is bordered by Oregon and Idaho to the north, Utah to the east, Arizona to the southeast, and California to the west. Much of the state is dominated by the Great Basin, an arid expanse of high desert and scattered mountain ranges. Contrary to its popular image, Nevada is also home to snow-capped peaks, alpine lakes, and lush valleys, especially in the north.
While Las Vegas often steals the spotlight, the capital city is actually Carson City, nestled near the eastern base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Carson City offers a quieter, more historic atmosphere with a rich past dating back to the silver mining days. It’s also conveniently located just south of gorgeous Lake Tahoe, making it an ideal jumping-off point for outdoor adventure.
Nevada’s tallest natural elevation is Boundary Peak, standing at 13,147 feet. Located in the White Mountains near the Nevada–California border, it offers challenging hikes and remote beauty for intrepid adventurers. The peak is part of the Boundary Peak Wilderness, where high-desert solitude and panoramic vistas reign supreme.
Nevada’s nickname, “The Silver State,” comes from the pivotal role it played in America’s mid-1800s silver mining boom. The Comstock Lode, discovered in 1859 near Virginia City, turned Nevada into a mining powerhouse and helped fund the Union during the Civil War. In fact, Nevada was rushed into statehood in 1864, earning the nickname “Battle Born.”
In the 20th century, Nevada gained notoriety for its liberal laws, including legalized gambling (1931) and quick divorces, which made cities like Reno and Las Vegas popular destinations. The state also played a central role in Cold War history, with the Nevada Test Site serving as the location for more than 900 nuclear tests between 1951 and 1992.
Today, Nevada balances this storied past with cutting-edge innovation, especially in renewable energy, aerospace, and tech industries emerging around Reno and Las Vegas.
Five Must-See Destinations
- Las Vegas: It’s impossible to talk about Nevada without mentioning the Entertainment Capital of the World. Las Vegas is more than casinos and nightlife, as it is home to world-class shows, award-winning restaurants, art installations, and themed resorts like The Venetian, Bellagio, and Caesars Palace. Off the Strip, visitors can explore the vibrant Fremont Street Experience, vintage neon signs at the Neon Museum, and immersive art at Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart.
Fast Facts
Capital: Carson City
Population: 3.2 million
Highest point: Boundary Peak (13,147 feet)
Economic engines: Tourism, mining, and renewable energy
Primerus Members:
Sklar Williams PLLC, PBLI
(Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S.)Sklar Williams PLLC, a full-service business law firm in Las Vegas.
Winner & Booze, PDI
(Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S.)Winner & Booze, an insurance defense law firm in Las Vegas.
- Lake Tahoe: Straddling the border between Nevada and California, Lake Tahoe is a pristine alpine gem known for its crystal-clear waters and year-round outdoor recreation. The Nevada side offers luxurious resorts, ski slopes like Heavenly, and quieter beaches such as Sand Harbor. Whether you’re hiking, skiing, boating, or just relaxing lakeside, Lake Tahoe’s beauty is undeniable.
- Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area: Just a short drive from Las Vegas, Red Rock Canyon feels like another planet. Towering red sandstone cliffs, winding scenic drives, and miles of hiking and biking trails make it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular routes like Calico Tanks and Ice Box Canyon showcase dramatic desert landscapes without the crowds of a national park.
- Great Basin National Park: One of the lesser-known national parks in the U.S., Great Basin in eastern Nevada is a hidden treasure. Visitors can explore the eerie underground world of Lehman Caves, hike through ancient bristlecone pine forests, and stargaze under some of the darkest skies in the country. Wheeler Peak, the state’s second-highest mountain, offers breathtaking alpine scenery and high-altitude trails.
- Virginia City: Step back in time in Virginia City, one of the best-preserved mining towns from the 19th century. Once a booming hub during the Comstock Lode silver rush, the town still oozes Old West charm. Wooden boardwalks, saloons, and historic tours make it a fun and educational stop for history buffs and families alike.