Land of Legends
With natural beauty, historic sites at every turn, outdoor recreation, and a healthy dose of legendary character, Carson Valley remains a destination worthy of attention.
We’re easy to find. Hard to forget.
Scenic
There is a feeling that you get when you come over the mountains and take in Carson Valley’s awe-inspiring views for the first time. Your shoulders relax, and the corners of your mouth curve up. ‘Picture Postcard Views’ takes on a whole new meaning.
Energizing
Think of Carson Valley as your outdoor recreation headquarters, whether you’re world-class athlete or a beginner looking to get underway. Try your hand at golf or skiing, road biking or trail running. Or simply take in the view from your new favorite vantage point.
Entertaining
The picturesque valley creates the ultimate entertainment amphitheater. From full-service casinos that host top musical acts to casual concerts in the park; from outdoor movie screens to Pops in the Park, you’ll find we have quite a knack for satisfying your thirst for fun.
Miles of Open Space
Carson Valley rests at a crossroads of sorts. It sits at the transition between the Sierra Nevada range and the Great Basin, the West Coast and the Wild West, the high alpine and the high desert. The valley is guarded on the west by rugged 10,000-foot peaks, the same mountains that cradle Lake Tahoe. Northern Nevada’s most scenic valley is scattered with open space, golf courses, expansive farms and ranches, parks, shops and hotels. Your journey through the Carson Valley stretches from Genoa in the northwest through the towns of Gardnerville and Minden. The trip is paid off with the refreshing reward of Topaz Lake to the south.
Getting Around
As you travel any of the three main roads into Carson Valley (U.S. Highway 395, State Route 88, or U.S. Highway 50), you will enjoy unspoiled views of the valley – surrounded on the east and west by mountains that are sometimes snow-capped year-round. The weather is pleasant and the area enjoys four distinct seasons, with temperatures commonly in the 80’s and 90’s during the summer and, typically, several inches of snow falling over the course of the winter. Topaz Lake, a 20-minute drive from Gardnerville and 30 minutes from Minden, is known for great fishing, boating, water-skiing, and wake-boarding. The lake (a reservoir) lies east of U.S. Highway 395 on the Nevada-California border. The scenic Pine Nut Mountains form a backdrop to the lake and nearby Topaz Lake Park. The south shore of Lake Tahoe, one of the world’s most famous alpine lakes, is just a 20-minute drive from Carson Valley.
Weather & Road Conditions
At an elevation of 4,700 feet and sheltered by the Carson Range of the Sierra Nevada to the west and the Pinenut Mountains to the east, the broad Carson Valley enjoys relatively mild winters among its four distinct seasons. Travelers should be aware that travel conditions in the surrounding area can change quickly. Always check for the most current conditions and what is in the forecast.
History
Get to know Carson Valley from a historical perspective. Rich, vibrant, fascinating, and little bit surprising: the wild west comes alive here.
Carson Valley Fun Facts
Pass through town on the main road and you missed 90% of the experiences awaiting your discovery. Uncover the Valley’s hidden facts.
Carson Valley Blog
Gain the insiders view to Carson Valley’s experiences. Here you’ll discover the stories which help to further define this unique “hidden jewel” of northern Nevada.
Volunteers
If you like to make a difference, meet new people and are ready to help promote the beautiful Carson Valley through the tourism field, then we want to meet you!
Weather and Road Conditions
Carson Valley enjoys relatively mild winters among its four distinct seasons. But, travelers should be aware that conditions in the surrounding area can change quickly.
Resource Links
Jump-start your journey through Carson Valley with quick links for arts & culture, local & business information, outdoor recreation, news, and transportation.
About Visit Carson Valley
The Carson Valley Visitors Authority (also referred to as Visit Carson Valley) is the designated tourist marketing organization for the Carson Valley and surrounding areas.
Getting Here
By road or air, Carson Valley is an easy reach from all directions. Get driving directions, popular airline service information, and typical mileage from major cities.
