Winnemucca, Nevada: 10 Short Road Trips for High Desert Adventure

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10 Easy Out-of-County Road Trips From Winnemucca, Nevada

If you live in or around Winnemucca, Nevada, you already know it’s a great jumping-off point for wide open spaces and big sky country. But what if you’ve driven I‑80 a hundred times and want something new? Good news: within a few hours’ drive, you can find hot springs, wild horses, ghost towns, mountain lakes, and lonely desert highways that feel like your own private movie set. Below are 10 short road trips from Winnemucca that take you into nearby counties in Nevada, Idaho, and Oregon—without repeating the same old stops. Every place listed is outside Humboldt County but still close enough for a day trip or an easy overnight.

1. Wild West Vibes in Elko, Nevada (Elko County)

Elko sits about 125 miles east of Winnemucca along I‑80, and it’s one of the best small-town road trips you can take in northern Nevada. Why go: Elko blends cowboy culture, Basque heritage, and high desert scenery. It feels like a classic Old West town that never tried too hard to be trendy. Things to do in Elko:
  • Stroll downtown and check out old brick buildings, murals, and local shops.
  • Visit the Western Folklife Center (famous for the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering each winter).
  • Grab a hearty Basque meal at one of the historic boarding house restaurants.
  • Take a side drive into the Ruby Mountains (if you don’t mind adding some extra miles).
If you like small towns with a real sense of place, Elko makes a great first stop when you’re exploring things to do near Winnemucca.

2. Ruby Mountains Scenic Drive & Hiking (Elko County)

From Elko, it’s just a bit farther south to the Ruby Mountains, often called the “Alps of Nevada.” They’re about 160–180 miles from Winnemucca, depending on your route. Why go: Cool mountain air, alpine scenery, and a nice break from the desert heat. Highlights:
  • Lamoille Canyon – A gorgeous paved drive through towering peaks, especially pretty in late spring and fall.
  • Short hikes – Try easy trails near the end of the canyon for creeks, meadows, and big views.
  • Picnic spots – Pack a cooler and enjoy lunch in the shade near the creek.
If you’ve ever wished northern Nevada had more “mountain postcard” moments, this is where you’ll find them.

3. Battle Mountain & the Shoshone Range (Lander County)

Battle Mountain is about 70 miles southeast of Winnemucca along I‑80 in Lander County. It’s a simple, low-key day trip with some surprising history and great open-country views. Things to do:
  • Drive the backroads south of town toward the Shoshone Range for rolling hills and quiet dirt roads.
  • Check out mining history around the area—old sites, tailings, and classic Nevada landscapes.
  • Hit a local café for a no-frills, small-town meal.
It’s not flashy, but if you like real Nevada—dust, big horizons, and the sound of trains in the distance—this drive scratches that itch.

4. Austin, Nevada & Old Pony Express Country (Lander County)

Continue farther south to Austin, Nevada, on Highway 50 (around 150–170 miles from Winnemucca depending on your route). It sits along what’s called “The Loneliest Road in America.” Why go: Austin feels like a living museum—stone buildings, old churches, and mining ruins climbing up the hillside. What to see:
  • Walk the steep main street and explore old storefronts and historic markers.
  • Visit one of the small local churches or stone ruins up the hill for views down the valley.
  • Drive short stretches of Highway 50 just to soak in that “middle of nowhere” feeling.
If you enjoy ghost towns and old mining camps, Austin gives you that mood but with just enough modern comfort to make it easy.

5. Rye Patch State Recreation Area (Pershing County)

Head south on I‑80 about 55–60 miles and you’ll reach Rye Patch Reservoir in Pershing County. It’s one of the closest water escapes from Winnemucca. Why go: When the desert heat kicks in, having a large lake nearby feels like finding an oasis. Things to do at Rye Patch:
  • Fishing for walleye, catfish, white bass, and more.
  • Picnicking along the shore with big open views.
  • Camping overnight if you want a simple, low-stress weekend away.
  • Stargazing—on clear nights, it’s dark enough to see the Milky Way.
It’s an easy, no-pressure trip: toss some snacks, folding chairs, and fishing gear in the car and you’re set.

6. Lovelock & the Lovelock Cave Area (Pershing County)

About 95 miles south of Winnemucca on I‑80 is Lovelock, another classic Nevada small town with a unique twist. Why go: It’s quiet, historic, and close to one of the most famous archaeological sites in the region. Ideas for your visit:
  • Walk around downtown Lovelock and see the “Lovers Lock” plaza where couples lock their love locks onto chains.
  • Take a short drive out to the Lovelock Cave area (note that the site itself may require checking current access and road conditions).
  • Explore old buildings and enjoy that laid-back small-town pace.
If you’re into history, Native cultures, or quirky roadside stops, Lovelock adds a fun chapter to your Winnemucca road trip ideas.

7. Pyramid Lake’s Otherworldly Shoreline (Washoe County)

Drive about 150–160 miles from Winnemucca (southwest on I‑80, then north from the Reno/Sparks area) and you’ll reach Pyramid Lake in Washoe County. Why go: Pyramid Lake looks like something from another planet—especially at sunrise or sunset. What to know:
  • The lake sits on the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe reservation. Permits are required for activities like fishing and camping—always check the tribe’s official information before going.
  • Enjoy the dramatic rock formations and steep shorelines from designated access areas.
  • Bring a camera; the colors of the water and sky can be incredible on clear days.
Compared to busy lakes near big cities, Pyramid Lake feels wild and raw. It’s a memorable change of scenery from the high desert plains around Winnemucca.

8. Reno Day Trip: Big-City Break from the High Desert (Washoe County)

Need a little more bustle in your life? Reno is about 165 miles southwest of Winnemucca on I‑80. Why go: After days of sagebrush and gravel roads, it’s nice to grab a latte, browse shops, or try a new restaurant. Reno road trip ideas:
  • Walk along the Truckee River downtown and watch kayakers in the whitewater park.
  • Explore midtown for murals, coffee shops, and local boutiques.
  • Check out casinos if that’s your thing—or skip them and focus on the food scene.
  • Visit one of the local museums or art spaces.
Reno makes a great “reset” day when you want a quick break from rural Nevada but still be back home the same night.

9. Steens Mountain Country & Alvord Desert (Harney County, Oregon)

For a wilder adventure, head northwest into Harney County, Oregon. Plan on roughly 200–230 miles depending on the route you take, but the empty roads and big landscapes make it worthwhile. This region includes:
  • Steens Mountain – A massive fault-block mountain with epic overlooks when roads are open (usually late summer into fall).
  • Alvord Desert – A huge dry lake bed (playa) that looks like a blank white canvas stretching to the horizon.
Why go:
  • Endless views and a true “end of the world” feeling.
  • Chance to see wild horses, pronghorn antelope, and migrating birds (in the right seasons).
  • Hot springs in the broader region—check current access and conditions before you go.
This trip feels more remote than most, so bring extra water, fuel up often, and check weather and road reports ahead of time.

10. Owyhee River Country & High Desert Canyons (Owyhee County, Idaho & Malheur County, Oregon)

To the northeast, the Owyhee region stretches across Owyhee County, Idaho, and Malheur County, Oregon. From Winnemucca, you’re looking at around 150–220 miles depending on which canyon or access point you choose. Why go: Think deep river canyons, rugged cliffs, and some of the least crowded landscapes in the West. Possible experiences (research specific access points before you go):
  • Remote drives along dirt roads with drop-dead gorgeous views.
  • River overlooks where you can watch the Owyhee carve through rock.
  • Spring wildflowers and big skies that change color all day long.
If you’re comfortable with backroads and love feeling like you’ve discovered a secret corner of the map, Owyhee country is hard to beat.

Tips for Road Trips From Winnemucca

Before you hit the road from Winnemucca into nearby counties and states, keep a few things in mind:
  • Fuel up early: Distances may not look huge on a map, but gas stations can be far apart.
  • Bring extra water and snacks: High desert air is dry and services can be limited.
  • Check weather and road conditions: Mountain and dirt roads can change quickly with storms or snow.
  • Respect local rules: On tribal lands, wildlife areas, and private property, always follow posted signs and permit requirements.
A simple cooler, a paper map (as backup), and a full tank go a long way out here.

Where Will You Drive Next?

Living in or visiting Winnemucca, Nevada means you’re sitting in the middle of some of the most underrated road trip country in the West. Within a few hours, you can:
  • Wander historic streets in Elko or Austin.
  • Cool off in the Ruby Mountains or at Rye Patch Reservoir.
  • Escape to the wild edges of Pyramid Lake, Steens Mountain, or Owyhee River country.
  • Grab a big-city breather in Reno and be back the same day.
Which of these 10 out-of-county road trips from Winnemucca would you try first? Are you more into ghost towns, lakes, mountains, or remote deserts? Share your thoughts in the comments—and if you’ve discovered a favorite drive or hidden spot near Winnemucca, I’d love to hear about it. If you found this guide helpful, please share it with a friend who’s planning a Nevada road trip or looking for new weekend ideas. The more we trade stories and tips, the better our next drive gets.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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