Whenever you get that itch for adventure, there’s no better way to cure it than by jumping behind the wheel of your car and setting off on one of the best scenic byways in Nevada. Luckily for us, beautiful highways and scenic drives are always just a stone’s throw away. The next time you get the urge to hit the road, consider exploring this little-known section of highway in northern Nevada known as the Angel Lake Scenic Byway. This under-appreciated route is short and sweet, and pretty much anybody with a vehicle is capable of traversing it. The views are unbeatable, so be sure to check it out!
One of the most stunning scenic drives in Nevada is hiding out in northeast portion of the state. The Angel Lake Scenic Byway is just 12 miles long.
However, it packs a whole lot of beautiful scenery in this short distance. This is one adventure you definitely don't want to pass up.
advertisement
It's hard to believe so many people drive right by this scenic stretch of road without thinking about it, but the drive's "unknown" factor is part of what makes driving it feel so special.
Your adventure will begin right outside the town of Wells. You'll hop on the road to Angel Lake, Highway 231, which is clearly marked and pretty easy to find. The highway leads right to Angel Lake from Wells, so it's almost impossible to get lost.
As soon as you depart from Wells, the highway will start climbing in elevation. The first five miles of the drive boast stunning views of the surrounding Humboldt Mountains that are bound to leave you breathless.
Since the lake is so high in elevation, it's usually quite cold, if not entirely covered in ice (and keep an eye on the weather report for those infamous Angel Lake Scenic Byway snow storms.) But it's simply gorgeous!
The best thing about this byway is that traffic is usually not a factor. You might see a few other cars during the height of summer, but otherwise, this drive is completely remote. Explore a slice of Nevada that not many get to see, and add this drive to your bucket list!
Have you traveled the Angel Lake Scenic Byway yet? One of the best scenic byways in Nevada, this is one adventure that definitely belongs on your to-do list.
Wondering, “Are there any other scenic drives near me?” Well, you’re in luck because the answer is yes! For more awesome on-the-road adventures, check out our list of the best back roads in Nevada for a scenic drive.
Before embarking on your next in-state getaway, check out Booking.com, where you’ll find an array of accommodations to fit your needs, taste, and budget.
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.
advertisement
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
advertisement
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...
People don't necessarily tend to think of lakes when they think of Nevada. Of course, we have two big ones that everyone knows - Lake Tahoe and Lake Mead - but most of our great state is much drier and more desert-y. You might be surprised to learn that Nevada actually has a bunch of other beautiful lakes too, and it just so happens that a number of them are not far from Reno. Reno itself, though, has no lakes, so if you're from or are visiting Reno, you'll have to hop in the car and take on this Nevada lakes road trip to see them. This road trip is a fun way to celebrate the "great lakes" of Nevada. It'll take you all day - about 8 hours total - to complete, or you can break it up into a 2-day trip. Have a great drive!
This trip departs from Reno. Be sure to bring some snacks along because there are big stretches of this adventure without many dining options. Still, you'll see so much of this part of the state on it and the journey will absolutely be worth it. These lakes are stunning!
The first lake that you'll visit on your adventure is Pyramid Lake. It's about 45 minutes northeast of Reno and it's huge! It's the remaining portion of ancient Lake Lahontan which was an inland sea that once covered most of western Nevada. It's almost 30 miles long and it has a surface area of 188 square miles. It was named for the pyramid-shaped island near its southeastern shore.
Next, you'll travel about 90 minutes south to Nevada's most famous lake - Lake Tahoe. This lake is shared with California and it's the largest alpine lake in North America. It's the sixth largest lake by volume in the United States after the five Great Lakes, and it's our nation's deepest lake - at 1,645 feet deep - after Oregon's Crater Lake. This lake is incredibly beautiful and is considered to be one of the most spectacular lakes not only in our country but in the world.
Unlike Lake Tahoe, Washoe Lake near Carson City is very shallow. Its depth can vary greatly from year to year - but at its deepest, its only 12 feet deep. At times, it even dries up completely; it most recently did so in 2004. You might stop and have a picnic lunch at Washoe Lake State Park on the lake's southeastern shore.
From Washoe Lake, it's a long two hours to your next stop: Walker Lake. This lake is 11 miles long, five miles wide, and is 68 feet deep at its deepest point. This lake is the traditional home of the Walker River Paiute Tribe, but today, it's in danger. It was once a popular recreational lake, but upstream irrigation diversions have threatened this lake immensely. Salt content in the lake is high due to rapid evaporation, and fish no longer can live here as a result. Conservation efforts have helped some, but this lake has a long way to go before it can recover.
Carson Lake, near Fallon, is about an hour north of Walker Lake. This lake and the area surrounding it is a protected area collectively known as the Carson Lake Wildlife Management Area. It's home to salt flats, upland shrub communities, irrigated pastures, wetland meadows, mammals, birds, and fish. This is a lovely place to visit to enjoy the best of what Nevada nature has to offer.
Just 45 minutes to the north of Carson Lake, you'll visit the last lake on our road trip. Soda Lake is actually two lakes; both of these lakes occupy volcano craters left behind when these two adjacent volcanoes erupted around 1500 years ago. For now, these lakes are lakes - but it's possible that these volcanoes may someday erupt again!
After you visit these six lakes, you'll have an hour's drive back to Reno. You'll be able to return in time to enjoy the nightlife in "the biggest little city in the world," which will surely be a lot of fun, but your mind and spirit will probably be back at the lakes, taking in those wonderful views.
This Nevada Lakes road trip is sure to be a really good time, especially if you love nature! Again, people don't really think too much about lakes when Nevada is mentioned, but if the subject ever comes up in conversation, you can now tell your companions all about the beautiful lakes you visited near Reno!
Oh - yeah - and we told you to bring some snacks. If you're wondering what to bring along, check out this list we made for you of the best on-the-go road trip snacks. Driving can take a lot out of you, and we don't want you to go hungry!
