The glitz and glamour of Las Vegas attract millions of visitors each year, and rightly so.

But did you know that not far off the famous Strip, there are mountain hikes, wineries, a national park, wildlife, and some step-back-in-time ghost towns from the heyday of the gold rush?

For more on Nevada’s famous ‘Death Valley Rally’ road trip, read on…

LAS VEGAS TO PAHRUMP

Travelling southeast from Las Vegas, the road trip starts on Highway 160 – also called the Pahrump Valley Highway. Here you will discover a hidden gem where natural wonders and small-town hospitality collide. Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of the surrounding desert landscapes, indulge in world-class wineries and outdoor adventures. Along the way, Mountain Springs Trailhead offers a stunning 8-km hike with views of Mount Charleston.

Death Valley (photo credit Travel Nevada – Sydney Martinez)

PAHRUMP TO DEATH VALLEY

Just a short drive away, Death Valley National Park where you can witness the breathtaking views from Dante’s View, overlooking Badwater Basin and Mt. Whitney. Explore Furnace Creek Visitor Center, marvel at the vibrant Artist’s Palette, and visit iconic locations like Badwater Basin, Golden Canyon, and Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes.

Badwater Basin (photo credit Travel Nevada – Sydney Martinez)

DEATH VALLEY TO RHYOLITE

Once a boom town during the gold rush, Rhyolite now stands as a captivating ghost town, with plenty of great photo ops. Nearby, the remarkable Tom Kelly Bottle House – constructed entirely from glass bottles – must be seen to be truly appreciated. Similarly, the Goldwell Open Air Museum is a quirky outdoor sculpture park that will change the way you look at art, and nature.

Goldwell Open Air Museum (photo credit Travel Nevada – Sydney Martinez)

RHYOLITE TO BEATTY

The charming town of Beatty invites roadtrippers with its friendly burros and the famous Death Valley Nut & Candy Co., one of the largest candy stores in America. This small yet historically significant community offers desert adventures, unique artifacts found only here, and an exceptional historical photo archive.

Bighorn sheep (photo credit Sharon K. Schafer – Desert National Wildlife Refuge)

BEATTY TO LAS VEGAS

The drive from Beatty back to Las Vegas is just under two hours. Explore the wonders of the Desert National Wildlife Refuge where you will witness the magnificent desert bighorn sheep, the vibrant Indigo Bunting, and a diverse array of desert species. Established in 1936, this refuge is a haven for nature enthusiasts.

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