The Cowboy Corridor is a 400-mile stretch of highway brimming with Western heritage and charm. While Interstate 80’s speed limits soar to 80 mph, the real treasures lie in slowing down and taking those off-ramps. Here, you’ll find vibrant communities rich in history, delicious cuisine, and a blend of buckaroo, Basque, and American Indian traditions. Pack your boots, grab your camera, and set aside 2 to 4 days to experience this unforgettable road trip.
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Reno to Winnemucca via Lovelock
For the first leg of the trip you’ll start in Reno, make a pit stop in Lovelock and head to Winnemucca where we recommend you spend the night. This is 165 miles.
Reno
Kick off your adventure in the Biggest Little City with a legendary meal at Louis’ Basque Corner, serving up family-style Basque feasts, chorizo burgers, and Nevada’s unofficial state drink—the Picon Punch. What is Picon Punch? It is a 19th-century cocktail featuring a unique liqueur called Amer Picon, plus grenadine, brandy and sparkling water. Before you hit the road, stop by D Bar M Western Store to pick up the perfect pair of cowboy boots.
Ghost town enthusiasts should head to Seven Troughs about an hour northwest of Lovelock to see ruins of a stamp mill and a handful of miner cabins and old cars. Or head an hour northwest to visit Unionville, where a cabin once inhabited by Mark Twain (when he was trying his hand at prospecting) still stands.
Lovelock
Visit Lovelock Cave, where 11 tule duck decoys—made between 400 B.C. and 100 A.D and the oldest ever found—were recovered. Start your trip to the cave on the Lovelock Cave & Backcountry Byway driving tour, a 40-mile-roundtrip drive that starts at the Marzen House Museum and takes you past historic sites like Big Five Dam, the Humboldt River, and ancient Lake Lahontan before arriving at Lovelock Cave. Back in town, “lock your love” to a never-ending chain at Lovers Lock Plaza and marvel at the Transcontinental Railroad depot, built in 1868. “Lock your love” and throw away the key at Lovers Lock Plaza. There are many places in town that sell the locks, or you can bring your own.
Thunder Mountain Monument – Imlay
You can’t miss this massive folk-art masterpiece from the highway. Thunder Mountain Monument is a fascinating roadside attraction featuring intricate concrete sculptures built by Chief Thunder. From Lovelock, take exit 145 off I-80 and follow the signs.
Winnemucca
Winnemucca proudly claims its place in cowboy history, famously referenced in Johnny Cash’s song “I’ve Been Everywhere.” Immerse yourself in local history at the Humboldt Museum or explore the Winnemucca Sand Dunes. Pay tribute to cowboy legends at the Buckaroo Hall of Fame, then indulge in a classic Basque meal at The Martin Hotel, serving up hearty fare since 1898.
Winnemucca to Elko via Battle Mountain
For the second part of your trip, continue east from Winnemucca about 125 miles to Elko, stopping in Battle Mountain to take in all the beautiful scenery and learn more cowboy history.
Battle Mountain
Check out the Battle Mountain Cookhouse Museum. The museum is housed in an authentic 1920’s ranch cookhouse. You’ll find American Indian artifacts, ranching relics (like saddles, formal clothing, and an impressive Stetson hat collection), antique cameras, old copper stills, and more. The Cookhouse Museum also hosts traveling cultural exhibits, educational programs, and local artists’ displays. Then head along the Humboldt River to Elko, the heart of Nevada’s cowboy country.
Elko
Elko is home to the Western Folklife Center. This museum is dedicated to western history and is best known for holding the annual National Cowboy Poetry Gathering. Next explore the many artifacts at the Cowboy Arts & Gear Museum before walking the short distance to the legendary J.M. Capriola Co.’s shop to stock up on all your cowboy gear. Take a stroll through town and marvel at 70 pieces of public art. Ready for another traditional Basque meal? Then finish your day at either The Star or Ogi Deli Bar & Pintxos. If you have a little extra time, take a side-trip to Alp-like Lamoille Canyon to enjoy some of the scenic Ruby Mountain beauty.
Elko to West Wendover via Wells
The final leg of this road trip is about 130 miles and will take you to West Wendover, the end of the trail, so to speak.
Wells
Just 30 minutes east of Elko, Wells is your gateway to the ghost town of Metropolis. Just 15 miles north, you’ll find the eerie remnants of this once-thriving town, including a picturesque schoolhouse arch. If you prefer natural beauty, head 12 miles off the interstate to Angel Lake, a stunning alpine retreat at 8,500 feet.
West Wendover
Your final stop along the Cowboy Corridor is West Wendover. West Wendover is a Nevada border town offering interstate travelers their very first (or last) casino experience. Say hello to Wendover Will, the 63-feet-tall, visitor-greeting neon cowboy. He’s been welcoming or thanking visitors for their visit since 1952. Soak in some military history at Historic Wendover Airfield Museum. Venture just over the border to the famed Bonneville Salt Flats before heading back to enjoy all the flash and fun of the town’s casinos and big-name entertainment.
Final Thoughts
Nevada is far more than glitzy casinos and neon lights—it’s a treasure trove of history, outdoor beauty, and quirky roadside attractions. If you love road trips, the Cowboy Corridor is just one of many routes that showcase the Silver State’s rugged charm. If you’re looking for more road trip adventures, go to Roadtrippers.com to get ideas. Use code BTR5QTP to save $5. So, pick your adventure, hit the open road, and embrace the Wild West.
We try to give you information and tips that we learn to help you make informed decisions when planning your vacation. We hope to encourage you to find your adventure, even if it’s close to home. So, get out, have fun and make some special memories!