Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Cedar City, Utah and Yerington, Nevada

If you are looking for an adventurous road trip, then a journey from Cedar City, Utah to Yerington, Nevada is a great option. Covering a total distance of 544 miles, the drive can take up to 9 hours, depending on how many stops you make. Whether you are an adventurer or a nature lover, this trip has something for everyone. Here are five unexpected places you should stop on your road trip:

1. Great Basin National Park (Baker, NV)

The Great Basin National Park is the perfect place to stop and stretch your legs. It boasts several scenic trails and numerous camping spots to explore. If you’re lucky, you may catch a glimpse of the park’s most popular attraction, Wheeler Peak, the highest point in Nevada. You can also trek along the historic Lehman Caves or hike to see the ancient Sagebrush encircling the mountains. Make sure to pack a picnic lunch, as there are many scenic spots in the park. The park is a unique destination, offering the best of both worlds, such as scenic views and serene activities.

Food to try: The park is famous for its biscuits and gravy, served at Hidden Cafe.

2. Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park (Ely, NV)

This spot is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. It’s hard to miss this treasure of Nevada’s history. You can explore the remains of the 19th-century charcoals and investigate the four preserved ovens. The attraction takes you through a revolving door of a previously unknown chapter of the region's history. You can take a guided tour of the park to learn about the stories of the mines, the wild west, and even stagecoach robberies. This stop will take your breath away with the astonishing history and natural beauty of the park.

Food to try: In Ely, grab some homemade pastries from the Hotel Nevada Bakery.

3. Goldfield (Nevada)

Goldfield, the midpoint between Reno and Las Vegas, is a precious place to visit for old-town charm. Everywhere you look, you can see the authentic streets and neon lights. The buildings and landscape around Goldfield will take you back in time, with the preserved Victorian era architecture and rustic saloons. This mining town has great stories to tell, with the area's infamous gold rush history. Goldfield will captivate any wanderlust soul, with its striking combination of the past and present.

Food to try: Grab a steak sandwich and beer at the Goldfield Hotel.

4. Virginia City (Nevada)

Virginia City is a classic place that everyone should visit. This town is well known for mining history and the Virginia City Opera House. The main drag has brilliant museums, shops with Western gear, and even a chocolate shop. Make sure to take a ride on the historic Virginia & Truckee Railroad and explore the Nevada Mining Museum. Explore the once jubilant community that was home to several famous people, such as Mark Twain and John Mackay. Virginia City is an enchanting spot to discover with outlaws, mines, and tales of the west.

Food to try: Grab the best whiskey and steak in the area at the historic Red Dog Saloon.

5. Walker River State Recreation Area (Wabuska, NV)

This is the perfect place to relax and unwind at the end of your road trip. Walker River State Recreation Area has something to offer everyone – hiking, fishing, boating, and birding. You can get lost in the nighttime sky and all the Northern Nevada wildlife. The location provides uninterrupted views of the Sierra Nevada range and the eastern slopes of the Pine Nut Mountains. The area is perfect for a picnic lunch with friends or family, with the views being serene and tranquil.

Food to try: Grab a sandwich and dessert from Jerry’s Restaurant in Yerington.

Conclusion

With so much to see and do on this route, it would be a shame for anyone to miss it. With plenty of history to explore, outdoor activities, and dining experiences to try, there is something for everyone on this road trip. It will push you off the beaten path and create a unique experience that you will never forget. So, if you plan to make this journey, make sure to put these five unexpected stops on your list.