July/August 2009
Sitting in a west Reno coffeehouse, Devere Dressler pauses in mid-conversation. The fifth-generation cowboy is talking ranching—the changes and challenges—when he turns toward the window. Pointing across four lanes of asphalt, he locates the old Caughlin Ranch house. The homestead, once the center of an expansive cattle operation, is now corralled by suburban development.
July/August 2009
If Nevada Magazine were to choose the Silver State’s “bests,” it would be mission impossible. There are just too many options. That’s why we leave the tough decisions to our readers. From February 15 to April 17, for the second year in a row, voting in our Best of Nevada survey was conducted right here on nevadamagazine.com.
July/August 2009
Traipsing across the globe would have been the dream vacation this summer, but with no airline ticket, I was out of luck. What I did have, however, was a cozy robe, a pair of slippers, and before me, a city with one of the highest concentration of resort spas in the world. This was my ticket to the ultimate world travel itinerary.
July/August 2009
Maybe it’s the adventure of discovering what lies over the next ridge, or the solitude of a remote alpine lake at sunset, or the sense of self-reliance that comes with carrying all your earthly needs on your back. Whatever your reason, backpacking holds a special place in the hearts of adventurers worldwide—and Nevada can provide a lifetime of exploration for the intrepid backpacker.
July/August 2009
The Techatticup Mine was once the richest gold producer in Southern Nevada. After World War II, the mine was abandoned and left to the harsh desert elements for more than 50 years. Today, the mine, located near Nelson in Eldorado Canyon, has new owners and new prospects. The Techatticup is destined to take a new place in Nevada history.
July/August 2009
The town’s mining history left in its wake one of the area’s most popular attractions, the Tonopah Historic Mining Park. In addition to the underground adventure, visitors can enjoy preserved and restored equipment and buildings, historic exhibits, video presentations, and a self-guided tour. The park, at more than 100 acres, is located on the grounds of Jim Butler’s original mining claims that started the rush to Tonopah in 1900.
July/August 2009
It’s no secret among diners that a fantastic atmosphere can elevate a good meal to great and an excellent one to sublime. And that’s never truer than when dining in the company of Lake Tahoe’s azure expanse and emerald mountain rim. Whether you crave simple, hearty pub grub after a hard day on the trails or a refined gustatory adventure, Tahoe’s chefs have a plate for you.
July/August 2009
Alice Ramsey’s most vivid Nevada memory during her 1909 visit wasn’t the chocolate cake and pork chop she was served for breakfast at a ranch west of Austin; nor the “rather enjoyable” sensation she felt when she saw a dozen bare-chested American Indians on horseback, bows drawn and galloping toward her outside of Eureka; nor her delight at the beauty of the irrigated ranches surrounding Fallon. Rather, it was the electric feeling of reaching Sparks.
July/August 2009
Circus Circus Reno gives fans the opportunity to relive the Eagles experience on July 17 as it hosts a one-night-only concert by tribute band Life in the Fast Lane, as this talented six-piece performs the Eagles’ greatest hits. Circus Circus is also putting on the “Life in the Fast Lane” slot tournament on July 18, with prizes totaling up to $3,000.
July/August 2009
Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters’ story begins in 1965. Elling Halvorson owned a construction company at the time. The task at hand was to lay a water pipeline across the Grand Canyon to the South Rim. Halvorson used helicopters to lower pipe into the canyon, and workers and guests flew in daily to view the project. With such stunning scenery, requests poured in for chartered helicopter flights.
July/August 2009
“Bonanza” premiered on NBC September 12, 1959, and by the time the trail dust settled some 14 years and 430 episodes later, the Cartwrights of the Ponderosa rode into history and into the hearts of a half billion people worldwide. Gone, but far from forgotten, the show continues to gain followers through worldwide syndication and has spawned countless fan clubs from its throngs of loyal rerun watchers.
July/August 2009
“One of the most unique human beings and entertainers in the world has been taken from us,” says Steve Wynn of the unexpected death of entertainer Danny Gans. Gans, 52, passed away in his sleep on May 1.