Western Nevada is home to such natural features as the stark vistas of the Black Rock Desert; the former prehistoric inland sea, Pyramid Lake; the Truckee River; and Lake Tahoe, one of the world's clearest and deepest lakes. Outdoor recreation in the region ranges from exceptional golfing opportunities, to spectacular hiking and snow skiing.Reno, the largest city in the northern half of Nevada, offers not only 24-hour gaming at its many hotel-casinos, but also such attractions as the Nevada Museum of Art and the National Automobile Museum. The city of Sparks also boasts a lively hotel-casino atmosphere. Virginia City, near Reno, was once the center of the 1800's Comstock mining district. Today it's wooden sidewalks, falsefront saloons and historic museums make it a fun and interesting place to visit.
Carson City, the capital of Nevada is located 30 miles south of Reno, and offers such points of interest as the Nevada State Museum, the Nevada State Railroad Museum, and the Kit Carson Trail. To the west, the Lake Tahoe area is a wonderful (and famous) winter playground. The lake itself can be explored along the 72-mile road that circles it, or by catching a ride on one of the boats docked at Zephyr Cove or Camp Richardson.
