Mention the name “Nevada” and what comes to mind for most people is the brightly lit strip that runs four miles through the city of Las Vegas. In reality though, there is much more to Nevada than just neon lights and casinos.Nevada is the seventh largest state in the United States. Who knew the “Silver State” could be so much fun? If you haven’t planned a second Nevada vacation because you’ve already been to Las Vegas, it’s time to start packing. There are hundreds of other attractions to tempt the most seasoned tourist.

Did you know that fifteen minutes from the Vegas Strip, you’ll find some of the most scenic hiking trails in the West? Red Rock Canyon is a photographer’s dream, with gloriously colorful sandstone canyons, wild burros and lush stands of pines. If you prefer mountain vistas, be sure to visit Spring Mountains National Recreation Area. The scenery is just as breathtaking as the curving mountain roads.

We can’t discuss Nevada vacations without mentioning what’s there for skiers. Lake Tahoe, on the California/Nevada border, boasts world famous ski runs and plenty of other winter sports venues. Up in northeastern Nevada, ski buffs should check out Elko in the Ruby Mountains. This gorgeous area offers year-round mountain sports.Whether you want to spend your time in Nevada hiking, fishing or skiing, you’ll find the perfect spot to do it all. There are lots of other ways to spend your time, though, and here’s information on some of those.

Plan a trip with the kids to Boulder City, a charming (gambling free!) small town just south of Las Vegas. Adjacent to beautiful Lake Mead National Recreation Area, it’s the perfect jumping off point for an active Nevada family vacation. Whether your family loves boating, hiking, fishing, camping or simply sight-seeing, Lake Mead won’t disappoint. And the friendly, casual feel of Boulder City will have you wondering why you haven’t visited before.

Another great place for families near Lake Mead is Henderson, Nevada. Although it’s moving rapidly toward three hundred thousand residents, careful planning has kept Henderson an attractive, family-friendly place to live and visit. Special attention has been given to creating beautiful outdoor parks and recreation spaces, so plan to spend time exploring the sporting possibilities. Lake Mead, of course, is a marvelous place to play, and having Henderson nearby ensures a multitude of vacation experiences.

If you absolutely love NASCAR racing, there’s no better place to see it live than Las Vegas Motor Speedway. This well-planned track is a favorite among fans, especially those inside the action at the infield RV camp! For more hands-on auto racing fun, book a day with the drivers at racing schools run by Jeff Gordon, Richard Petty and Mario Andretti.Vacationers who prefer the driver in their golf bag should definitely plan a trip around the nationally-ranked courses in Nevada. Of special note are Wolf Creek in Mesquite and Edgewood Golf Course in South Lake Tahoe. Bring your clubs and settle in for a week of golfing excitement.

Tags : Exciting Activities, Nevada Vacation, Vacation Adventures