Cold Springs, Nevada: 10 Easy Road Trips From Washoe County

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10 Easy Road Trips from Cold Springs, Nevada: Fun Things To Do Just Beyond Washoe County

If you live in or near Cold Springs, Nevada, you already know it’s a quiet spot with big sky views and easy highway access. But what if you’re itching to get out of town for a day or a weekend? The good news: within a few hours’ drive, you’ve got hot springs, ghost towns, mountain lakes, wild horses, and some seriously good food and drink. And the best part? Every idea on this list is outside Washoe County, so you’re really getting away. Below are 10 short out-of-county road trips from Cold Springs, using only nearby counties in Nevada, California, and Oregon. Think of this as your starter list for “things to do near Cold Springs” when you’re ready to hit the road.

1. Soak in History and Hot Springs in Carson City, Nevada (Carson City)

Carson City is about an hour to an hour and a half from Cold Springs, depending on traffic and your route. It’s an easy day trip that mixes history, food, and a little relaxation. Why go: It has that classic Nevada feel: state capital, old buildings, and wide streets with views of the mountains. Things to do in Carson City:
  • Nevada State Museum – Housed in an old U.S. Mint building, with exhibits on mining, Native history, and the silver boom. Great spot if you like to know the stories behind the places you drive through.
  • Carson Hot Springs – Soak in hot mineral water, rent a private room, or chill in the outdoor pools. After a long week, a soak hits different, especially in winter.
  • Walk the Kit Carson Trail – A self-guided loop past historic homes and landmarks. The painted sidewalk markers make it easy to follow.
Tip: Head down in the late morning, grab lunch in town, hit the museum, and end the day with a soak before driving back to Cold Springs.

2. Virginia City & Gold Hill: Old West Vibes Just Down the Road (Storey County, NV)

If you want something close that feels like a total time warp, Virginia City in Storey County is hard to beat. Why go: It’s one of the most iconic Old West towns in Nevada, and it really leans into its mining past. Highlights in Virginia City & nearby Gold Hill:
  • Stroll the wooden boardwalks — Step into saloons, candy shops, and little museums. It’s touristy, but in a fun way.
  • Tour an old mine — Learn what it was like to work underground during the Comstock Lode days.
  • Virginia & Truckee Railroad (seasonal) — Short train rides with great views and lots of local history.
Road tip: The drive in has some curves and climbs, but you’re rewarded with sweeping views of the high desert. It’s a classic “show out-of-town visitors this is Nevada” kind of trip.

3. Fallon and the Loneliest Road in America (Churchill County, NV)

Head east from Cold Springs and you can reach Fallon in Churchill County in around 2–3 hours, depending on your route. It’s a great place to get a taste of rural Nevada. Why go: Farm country, desert lakes, and that “endless highway” feeling. Things to do around Fallon:
  • Sand Mountain Recreation Area – A huge sand dune rising out of the desert. Bring an ATV, or just hike up for sunset views. The sand is softer than it looks, so wear good shoes.
  • Lahontan Reservoir – Boating, fishing, and picnicking when the water is up. Perfect for a hot summer day.
  • Downtown Fallon – Small-town cafes, murals, and a chance to stretch your legs after the drive.
Idea: Combine Fallon with a short stretch on “the Loneliest Road in America” (U.S. 50) for that classic Nevada road-trip feel.

4. Winnemucca & Humboldt County Desert Highways (Humboldt County, NV)

Looking for something a bit more rugged? Head northeast to Winnemucca in Humboldt County. It’s a longer drive (about 3–4 hours from Cold Springs), but the wide-open spaces are worth it. Why go: Small-town Nevada, Basque food, and access to big-sky desert. Things to check out:
  • Winnemucca Sand Dunes – Great for OHV fun, photography, or just walking the dunes and enjoying the quiet.
  • Local Basque restaurants – Family-style meals with hefty portions. Go hungry.
  • Day drives into the backcountry – Explore gravel roads and lesser-known hot springs (always check road conditions first).
Tip: This is more of a weekend trip if you’re coming from Cold Springs, especially in winter when weather can slow you down.

5. Lovelock, Rye Patch & Starry Skies (Pershing County, NV)

If you’re in the mood for a quirky stop and some reservoir time, head east to Pershing County, about 2–3 hours from Cold Springs. Why go: A mix of small-town charm, desert water, and really dark night skies. What to do:
  • Lovelock “Lover’s Locks” tradition – In downtown Lovelock, couples lock a padlock on a chain and throw away the key. It’s cheesy, but kind of sweet.
  • Rye Patch State Recreation Area – Boating, camping, fishing, and mellow desert views. This is one of those places where you can just sit, grill, and watch the water.
  • Stargazing – On a clear night, the Milky Way really pops out here.
Road tip: Pack extra water and snacks. Services can be spread out once you leave the interstate.

6. Dayton & Fernley: Small-Town Charm and River Time (Lyon County, NV)

If you want something low key and closer than the long-haul desert runs, explore Lyon County. Towns like Dayton and Fernley are easy companion trips to a visit to Carson City or Storey County. Why go: Riverside picnics, historic buildings, and small-town Nevada life. Things to do:
  • Dayton’s historic district – One of Nevada’s oldest settlements. Walk around, check historic markers, and imagine life here during the gold rush days.
  • Carson River access – Look for spots to walk, fish, or just sit by the water.
  • Fernley sand and trails – Simple, easy-access desert exploring right from town.
Idea: Pair Lyon County with a loop through Carson City or Virginia City for a full-day circle drive from Cold Springs.

7. Lake Tahoe’s North Shore Escapes (Placer & Nevada Counties, CA)

You can’t talk about road trips near Cold Springs without mentioning Lake TahoeWhy go: Deep blue water, pine forests, beaches, and mountain air. It’s that simple. Top spots on the California side:
  • King’s Beach (Placer County) – Sandy beaches, paddleboard rentals, and lakeside snacks. Great family spot in summer.
  • Truckee (Nevada County) – Historic downtown with shops, cafes, and a rail-town vibe.
  • Tahoe Rim Trail segments – Plenty of day-hike options with big views.
Seasonal tip:
  • Summer: Swimming, kayaking, boating.
  • Winter: Skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts.

8. Sierra County Backroads: Lakes, Rivers, and Quiet Towns (Sierra County, CA)

Just north of Truckee and west of the Nevada border lies Sierra County, California, one of the least populated counties in the state. It feels like a hidden pocket of the Sierra Nevada. Why go: Less crowded than Tahoe, with beautiful rivers and lakes. What to explore:
  • Sierra City & Downieville – Tiny towns with big mountain scenery and old buildings.
  • North Yuba River – Deep pools, rapids, and picnic spots along the canyon.
  • High-country lakes – Great for short hikes and fishing when the snow melts.
Driving note: Roads can be narrow and winding. Give yourself extra time, especially if you’re not used to mountain driving.

9. Lassen Volcanic Wonders (Lassen County, CA)

If you’re up for a slightly longer but unforgettable road trip, point your car northwest toward Lassen County, California. Parts of the drive will make you feel like you’ve left Nevada far behind. Why go: Volcanic landscapes, alpine lakes, and steaming fumaroles. Ideas in and around Lassen County:
  • Gateway towns like Susanville – Base yourself here to explore the region.
  • Drives toward Lassen Volcanic National Park* – While the main park area sits in neighboring counties, Lassen County is your approach route from the north and east, with great forest and meadow scenery.
  • Bizz Johnson Trail access – A rail-trail popular for biking and walking that runs along the Susan River.
Tip: Check road and park conditions, especially in spring and late fall. Snow can linger at higher elevations.

10. Oregon’s High Desert: Harney & Lake Counties (OR)

For a true “out there” adventure, head north into Harney County and Lake County, Oregon. This is big-sky country with long, empty roads and surprising oases. Why go: Remote hot springs, wildlife, and jaw-dropping night skies. Highlights to consider:
  • High Desert landscapes – Rolling sagebrush, distant mountain ridges, and a quiet that feels almost unreal.
  • Remote hot springs – Scattered around the region; some are simple pools, others are more developed. Always respect local rules and private property.
  • Bird watching and wildlife – Migratory birds, pronghorn, and other desert wildlife are common if you slow down and look.
Important: This is best as a weekend trip from Cold Springs, and you should:
  • Gas up early and often.
  • Carry extra water and snacks.
  • Check road conditions (some roads are gravel or seasonal).

How to Make the Most of Your Road Trips from Cold Springs

You don’t have to plan a huge vacation to feel like you’ve gotten away. From Cold Springs, these short road trips open up a mix of:
  • Old West towns and ghost-town vibes
  • Hot springs and reservoirs
  • Lakes, rivers, and forested mountains
  • Classic Nevada desert highways
A few simple habits can make each trip smoother:
  • Check the weather – Mountain passes and desert storms can change plans fast.
  • Keep a small “go bag” – Sunscreen, hat, light jacket, reusable water bottle, and a basic first-aid kit.
  • Map things out – Cell service can drop in rural areas, so download maps ahead of time.
If you ever find yourself thinking, “There’s nothing to do near Cold Springs,” pick one of these spots, fill up the tank, and go. You might be surprised how different life can feel just a couple of hours down the road.

Share Your Favorite Road Trips from Cold Springs

Have you driven to any of these places from Cold Springs? Did I miss one of your favorite day trips or weekend getaways in these nearby counties?
  • Drop a comment with your best routes, hidden gems, or food stops.
  • Share this post with friends and family who are always saying, “We should go somewhere this weekend…”
The more we share our local road trip ideas, the easier it is for everyone to discover new things to do near Cold Springs, Nevada—without hopping on a plane.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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