November 1, 2024

Saddle up! This road trip is for those seeking a wild (West) adventure.

Woman walking on a snowy path with a horse.
© M.D. Welch

Cowboy Corridor: 400 miles | 2 to 4 Days. #CowboyCorridor travelnevada.com/cowboy-corridor/Few road trips brim with as much Western heritage as Nevada’s Cowboy Corridor. And here’s the thing: Interstate 80’s speed limits hit 80 mph but when you come to a town, slow down. Beyond those off-ramps, you’ll find lively communities full of history and engaging attractions, with museums, restaurants, and festivals blend buckaroo, Basque, and American Indian traditions. So, pack your boots, hit the Cowboy Corridor, and become part of the story.

Reno

Before finding your inner cowboy, stop in the Biggest Little City for a look at all things awesomely automotive at the National Automobile Museum. More than 220 historic cars await your visit. Next, fuel up at a local legend. Since 1967, Louis’ Basque Corner has served family-style Basque feasts, killer chorizo burgers at the bar, and Nevada’s unofficial state drink: the Picon Punch. Now you’re ready for some Wild West adventure.

Travel Nevada Pro Tip: Ghost town enthusiasts should head to Seven Troughs about an hour northwest of Lovelock to see ruins of a stamp mill and a handful of miner cabins and old cars. Or head an hour northwest to visit Unionville, where a cabin once inhabited by Mark Twain (when he was trying his hand at prospecting) still stands. Lovelock

Visit Lovelock Cave, where 11 tule duck decoys—made between 400 B.C. and 100 A.D and the oldest ever found—were recovered. Back in town, “lock your love” to a never-ending chain at Lovers Lock Plaza and marvel at the Transcontinental Railroad depot, built in 1868.

Winnemucca

The town that inspired one of Johnny Cash’s opening line earns its cowboy cred without even trying. Winnemucca is packed with history that begs a closer look, especially if you’re hungry. Open since 1898, The Martin Hotel serves Basque meals you won’t soon forget. Work off that lamb shank at the artifact-packed Humboldt Museum or head out to the Winnemucca Sand Dunes before resting your head at the uber-retro Scott Shady Court Motel.

Elko

There’s no hurrying through Elko, home to the annual National Cowboy Poetry Gathering and its year-round hub: the Western Folklife Center. Dive into the cultural deep end at the Cowboy Arts & Gear Museum before walking the short distance to the legendary J.M. Capriola Co.’s shop to stock up on authentic leathergoods and more. Mosey through town and marvel at 70 pieces of public art, then finish your day with (what else?) a traditional Basque meal at either The Star or Ogi Deli Bar & Pintxos. A well-deserved rest awaits at the Maverick Casino Hotel.

Wells

A short 30 minutes east of Elko, Wells is your jumping-off point to the ghost town of Metropolis. Just 15 miles north are the remnants of this once-bustling town and its picturesque schoolhouse arch. Once you’ve had your earthly fill, head for the heavens. Located some 8,500 feet up (but just 12 miles off the interstate), the beauty of Angel Lake steals the hearts of hikers, anglers, and wildlife watchers.

West Wendover

Your final stop along the Cowboy Corridor is West Wendover. Say hello to Wendover Will, the 63-feet-tall, visitor-greeting neon cowboy, then soak in some military history at Historic Wendover Airfield Museum. Venture just over the border to the famed Bonneville Salt Flats before heading back to enjoy all the flash and fun of the town’s casinos and big-name entertainment.

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