CARSON VALLEY (GARDNERVILLE-MINDEN)

The Magical Carson Valley

There are many things to see and do in Carson Valley. You’ll find scenic beauty, outdoor recreation, history, shopping and dining on par with some of the better-known tourism destinations in the region.

What makes Carson Valley unique and often magical is the variety of historic sites and attractions that make the area well worth discovering during your stay in Northern Nevada.

Genoa, the oldest town in Nevada was settled in 1851. Today there are no streetlights in town and within the main square you’ll find the oldest bar in Nevada. The popular thirst parlor features antiques and memorabilia from throughout its colorful history. Everything in Genoa is within walking distance. There is Mormon Station State Park, the Genoa Courthouse Museum and a variety of boutique shops, antique stores and restaurants in addition to a tasting room featuring samples from Nevada’s first fill production winery.

On the way to your next stop you might want to check out Cradelbaugh Bridge, and learn how John Ferris got the idea for the Ferris Wheel or enjoy a soak at Walley’s Hot Springs where weary travelers have enjoyed a respite for more than 100 years.

After a scenic 10-15 minute drive you’ll discover the Town of Minden. The town was established in 1905 to provide terminal facilities for the Virginia and Truckee Railroad. The oldest part of Minden along Esmeralda Street features a lovely park in the town square complete with gazebo. Along the main street, buildings with restaurants and shops look very much the way they did when they were constructed in the early 1900’s.

Just a mile or two down U.S. Highway 395 you’ll arrive in the Town of Gardnerville. First established in 1879, the Gardnerville of today is know for some of the best Basque dining in the state. J.T’s Restaurant and Bar and Overland Hotel are two family style dining meccas, serving locals and visitors in the same locations for decades. The close proximity of several antique dealers also make Gardnerville a haven for those looking to own a piece of history.

A little further south you’ll find Topaz Lake. The lake has a reputation for great fishing, boating, water skiing and wakeboarding. There are camping facilities, a picnic area and the Topaz Lodge and Casino has been serving guests since 1952.

There are four golf courses within minutes of one another and it’s not uncommon for the avid player to get in two rounds at two different courses in a single day. The Minden-Tahoe Airport is recognized as the home base for some of the finest soaring and gliding in the world. Full service RV parks are open year-round.

Carson Valley is nestled between the majestic rise of the Sierra Nevada and the haunting beauty of the Pine Nut Mountains. The valley was the winter home of the Washoe Indians who made the 18-mile journey to Lake Tahoe every summer. Nevada’s state capital, Carson City is right next door while Reno and Virginia City are less then an hour away.

Carson Valley has four main access routes (Highway 395 N/S, Highway 88 N and Highway 50 E) and all offer incredible views on less traveled roads and highways.

For information on all there is to see and do in Carson Valley contact the Carson Valley Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Authority located inside the Museum and Cultural Center at 1477 Highway 395 in Gardnerville. 775-782-8144 / 800-727-7677 or visit any of the links to the right.

© 2006 Rural Nevada Associated Chambers
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