Unforgettable Festivals and Unexpected Stops
Ward Mountain | Travel Nevada
From a high-desert bike race to a star-gazing celebration, Highway 50 is full of outstanding events.
A good Highway 50 road trip should be a little bit spontaneous, and a little bit planned out. You want to allow time to linger at that turquoise shop in Austin or chat with the locals in Eureka. But some experiences deserve a spot on your calendar and a little preparation.
In June, Ely hosts the Fears, Tears and Beers Mountain Bike Enduro Race which challenges participants to bike anywhere from 1,000 feet to 6,000 feet up Ward Mountain, no matter the weather. Spectators can watch from downtown Ely, enjoy a day of food, drinks, and music—later joined by riders after the grueling fight to the top is over.
Autumn means it’s time for the Great Basin Astronomy Festival, a weekend in September dedicated to ranger talks on the night sky, Milky Way photography, star parties, and space-themed happy hours. Great Basin is an International Dark Sky Park, so you can witness the dazzling lights of the universe on any night, but there’s something special about doing so alongside the experts. Fall is also the time for the Art, Wine and Music Festival in Eureka, a multi-day celebration featuring art vendors, a dutch oven cook-off, a wine walk, a 5k race, tours of the local tunnels, and more, all in support of restoration projects.
Any time of year is a good time to visit the Nevada Northern Railway in Ely, but themed train rides make for an extra special experience. In October, climb aboard the Haunted Ghost Train. In December, enjoy hot cocoa and cookies with Santa. Other special rides include a geology themed train, a 1920s party, and a Fourth of July fireworks event.
Head to travelnevada.com to learn more.