While Nevada evokes images of casino roulette wheels, venture beyond to discover its true gem: the most mountainous state in the continental U.S., offering unparalleled scenic drives and epic road trips.

Nevada's premier road trips showcase stunning landscapes—from vibrant Mojave Desert art installations to mountain cowboy gatherings and a new state park untouched for over a century. These routes provide the perfect escape from winter blues.

Explore three standout itineraries below and plan your journey today.

The Free-Range Art Highway

Las Vegas to Tonopah—or Reno

Have you encountered a 40-foot fire-breathing mantis? This route connects revitalized arts districts in Las Vegas and Reno with remote desert sculptures.

Ideal for winter, the milder weather lets you enjoy outdoor art without summer heat. Key stops include year-round highlights and seasonal displays. Find a detailed map here.

Downtown Las Vegas has transformed, with Fremont East and the Arts District now vibrant open-air galleries. The Life is Beautiful festival since 2013 has left lasting murals. Visit Container Park's iconic 40-foot praying mantis by Kirk Jellum, which breathes fire at night.

Nearby seasonal attractions: Glittering Lights at Las Vegas Motor Speedway (through early January) features 3 million LEDs along a 2.5-mile drive. Also, the Cactus Garden Holiday Lights at Ethel M. Chocolates dazzles with illuminated desert plants—pair with their chocolates.

Combine with Seven Magic Mountains by Ugo Rondinone, neon boulders glowing at golden hour, just south of Vegas.

Head 120 miles northwest on Highway 95 to Beatty and the Goldwell Open Air Museum: a 25-foot pink lady, ghostly Last Supper, and more.

Nearby, explore Rhyolite Ghost Town, Nevada's most photographed ruins.

Stay in Beatty at the eco-friendly Atomic Inn; try Happy Burro Chili & Beer.

Continue 67 miles to Goldfield for the surreal International Car Forest of the Last Church.

27 miles north to Tonopah: Central Nevada Museum, Mizpah Hotel murals, and starry skies. Stay at the historic Mizpah.

Return to Vegas or drive 227 miles to Reno, stopping at Yerington Theatre of the Arts and Oats Park Art Center in Fallon. End in Reno's Riverwalk District.

The Rubies Route

An Elko-based hub-and-spoke adventure

Experience cowboy poetry, heli-skiing, and ice fishing in the Ruby Mountains, Nevada's winter wonderland. Time your visit for the annual National Cowboy Poetry Gathering in late January.

In Elko, immerse in ranch culture at the Cowboy Arts & Gear Museum and Western Folklife Center.

Skiers: 20 miles southeast to Lamoille for world-class heli-skiing amid 11,000-foot peaks.

South 20 miles: South Fork State Recreation Area for ice fishing.

Cross-country ski at Angel Lake (55 miles northeast) or Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge (62 miles southeast).

Dine at Ruby Mountain Brewing Co, stay at Thunderbird Motel, eat at Machi's Saloon & Grill.

The Lake Tahoe Loop

Reno, Carson Valley, Lake Tahoe, and a new state park detour

Nevada's newest state park, Walker River State Recreation Area (opened 2018), joins Reno, Carson City, historic towns, and Tahoe shores.

Start in Reno: climb the nation's tallest wall, see Burning Man sculptures, visit Reno Playa Art Park.

30 miles south to Carson City: tour the 1870 capitol and Nevada State Museum. Walk the Blue Line Trail.

Detour to Virginia City: Mark Twain's stomping grounds, oldest hotel.

In Carson Valley: Mormon Station State Historic Park, towns of Minden, Gardnerville, Genoa—home to Nevada's Oldest Thirst Parlor.

Relax at 1862 David Walley's Hot Springs Resort and Spa; grab sandwiches at Pink House.

Finale: Hike Walker River State Recreation Area (61 miles southeast) or head to Stateline resorts, then #NevadaSide of Lake Tahoe to Incline Village and Lone Eagle Grille.

These trips are just the beginning. Discover more Nevada road trip itineraries and inspiration at TravelNevada.com, or request a free visitor's guide.