Car Rental Las Vegas - Exploring Las Vegas

Nevada's name comes from the Spanish word meaning ‘snow clad’ - a reference to the snow-covered peaks of the Sierra Nevada. It is a land of rugged, snow-capped mountains, grassy valleys and sandy deserts.

Drive the scenic road to the base of Wheeler Peak National Park. From there, follow trails to alpine lakes and the famous and breathtaking bristlecone pine forest. The Wheeler Peak Scenic drive is 12 miles long and the Baker Creek Road is a 3.6 mile gravel road winding through the forest alongside a crystal clear river. Both roads are closed in winter.

The Wheeler Peak bristlecone pine grove, the most accessible grove in the park, is located on the northeast side of Wheeler Peak. It is unusual in that it grows on a glacial moraine consisting of quartzite boulders.

The Lexington Arch is another must see in Nevada. It rises high above the floor of Lexington Canyon, as an imposing natural arch created by the forces of weather.

To reach Lexington Arch drive east to Baker on Nevada 488 through the town of Garrison. Look for the first dirt road on the right just south of Pruess Lake.

Perhaps the most famous natural wonder in Nevada is Death Valley. This stark and stunning landscape full of sand and whirlwinds and is one of the wonders of the world. There are numerous trails to be taken and explored depending on the time of year and the length of your stay in the area.