Nevada offers endless natural beauty for adventure-seekers, sightseers, and photographers to explore. It might surprise passersby that Nevada is home to some truly picturesque and beautiful lakes. Although there are only 36 lakes in the state, they offer truly breathtaking landscapes. We decided to poll our readers on our Only In Nevada Facebook page to ask about their favorite Nevada lakes to visit and explore. We then selected the best images among the submissions to comprise our list of the 11 most beautiful lakes in Nevada, according to our readers. We hope you enjoy the selections as much as we did!
Located within the beautiful Ruby Mountains in Elko County at 9,747 feet in elevation, Lamoille Lake offers a restful reprieve from hot summer days at lower elevations. This pristine glacier-carved lake almost seems out of place in the driest state in the country, but it is a gem truly worth visiting.
Lahontan Reservoir is located within the Lahontan State Recreation Area in northwestern Nevada. This lake is extremely popular for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, paddleboarding, swimming, and water skiing. On the fringes of the lake, you'll also find plenty of trails for hiking and horseback riding and campgrounds if you'd like to stay a while and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Lake Mead is the largest man-made reservoir in the US and one of the largest constructed lakes in the world. Located east of Las Vegas on Nevada's southern border with Arizona, this lake offers spectacular scenery and plenty of recreational activities such as boating, kayaking, swimming, fishing, hiking, and more.
As picturesque as can be, Pyramid Lake is one of the largest natural lakes in Nevada. It is also the largest remaining lake from Lake Lahontan, which used to cover most of Nevada's land surface until about 9,000 years ago. It has unique geologic features, such as these tufa (limestone) formations after which the lake is named.
This list would not be complete without including the well-known and loved Lake Tahoe. Not only is this lake beautiful, as portrayed in this image of Secret Cove, but this lake is also widely sought after for its recreation: water skiing, boating, paddleboarding, jet skiing, fishing, and hiking are just some of the many activities that make this lake truly one-of-a-kind.
Straddling Nevada's western border with California is the breathtaking Topaz Lake. It is just as scenic and wonderful as Lake Tahoe, but smaller and less populated with recreational visitors. This is the perfect option if you're hoping to be more removed from the crowds while soaking in the beauty of your surroundings.
Liberty Lake is another glacially carved lake within the Ruby Mountains Wilderness. Situated at an elevation of 10,039 feet, you'll have to hike a challenging 8.7-mile trail to reach it (but you'll pass Lamoille Lake on the way, so you may as well cross two beautiful lakes off of this list at once).
Washoe Lake is located between Reno and Carson City, and is quite shallow, with a maximum depth of only 12 feet! Due to its shallow depth, recreational activities are limited to fishing, paddleboarding, kiteboarding, camping, hiking, and more. But what most draws visitors to this little lake, perhaps, are the sweeping vistas of the Virginia, Carson, and Sierra Nevada mountain ranges.
This beautiful oasis is Spooner Lake, a scenic reservoir within Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park. It's been quoted by visitors as being a paradise for fishing, boating, hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, cross-country skiing during the winter months, and simply drinking in the beauty of nature.
Located within the East Humboldt Range in northeastern Nevada, Angel Lake is as picturesque as they come. This tranquil lake sits at an elevation of nearly 8,400 feet and is accessible via the paved Angel Lake Road (be aware that this road does close in the winter). You won't regret camping for a few nights at the highly-rated Angel Lake Campground that sits adjacent to this beautiful lake.
Last but not least on our list of beautiful Nevada lakes is the lovely Stella Lake. Located within Great Basin National Park at an elevation of 10,400 feet, this stunning alpine lake is accessible via the moderately-challenging 2.1-mile Stella Lake Trail. The lake offers one of the most iconic natural vistas in Nevada.
Which among these lakes do you think is the most beautiful lake in Nevada? Did we leave a lake off that you think should be on this list? Let us know in the comments below!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
Every natural wonder in Nevada has a unique story. However, the story behind this lake may just be the most fascinating of them all. Pyramid Lake in Nevada has long been a popular attraction for folks looking to get out on the water, but few people realize just how amazing this lake truly is. Not only is it one of the most gorgeous sights in the Silver State, but it's the oldest lake in NV, and the story of its creation is truly incredible. There's a whole lot to love about this dreamy lake, and every Nevadan should take the time to learn about it. Here's everything you need to know about Pyramid Lake in Nevada.
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Pyramid Lake is easily one of the most fascinating bodies of water in Nevada. Not only is the lake's beauty absolutely mesmerizing, but its history is seriously incredible. Known as the last remnant of the ancient Lake Lahontan, its story is one every Nevadan should know.
Long ago, Lake Lahontan took up much of what is now modern northwestern Nevada. It even extended into northeastern California and southern Oregon. As the lake dried up, it left a few smaller lakes behind. Only two of them remain: Walker Lake and Pyramid Lake.
Formed in the Pleistocene Epoch (2.6 million to 11,700 years ago), it's considered the largest natural lake in the state. The lake measures about 30 miles long and 9 miles wide. It's truly the crown jewel of Nevada's lakes!
Boasting glistening blue water, it's amazing to think about how this lake represents a very old piece of living Nevada history. In fact, it's believed the existence of Lake Lahontan coincided roughly with the first appearance of humans in this region. How is that for interesting Pyramid Lake history?
Pyramid Lake was mapped in 1844 by John C. Fremont, but the lake was used for thousands of years previously by the Paiute indigenous people and became a very important part of their culture. The lake is entirely enclosed on the Paiute Indian Reservation to this very day.
The Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe manages the lake and it's turned into a recreational paradise for its year-round outdoor opportunities. The lake is perhaps most notable for its world-class fishing since it's known to be home to many trophy-sized fish, clocking in at 20 pounds or more.
Additionally, the lake's surroundings are simply stunning. The lake is completely surrounded by a gorgeous desert landscape, including odd formations known as white tufa. It's definitely a unique sight, and in some ways it makes you feel as if you've entered a different world.
Visiting Pyramid Lake is like visiting a slice of Nevada's living history. Get to know an enduring natural wonder in our state and plan a day trip to see this beauty soon!
Did you know the fascinating history behind Nevada's oldest lake? Have you visited Pyramid Lake in Nevada before? Our state is full of incredible places like this one. The West Rim of the Grand Canyon is another one. One of the most spectacular ways to experience it is via a private helicopter tour.
Check out our list of natural wonders in Nevada that you must visit immediately for even more incredible places to travel.
Lake Mead is another famous lake in Nevada. This beautiful reservoir was formed by the construction of the Hoover Damn, and it has the largest water capacity of any reservoir in the U.S.:
