Nevada Trails to Rails Beginner & Intermediate Bike and Hike Tour

If you’re dreaming of a week-long adventure that combines stunning desert scenery, historic railroads, and exciting mountain biking, the Nevada Trails to Rails Tour might just be your perfect match. This 7-day experience offers a well-rounded mix of biking, hiking, and cultural highlights, designed for beginners and intermediate riders alike. From exploring the scenic canyons of Kershaw Ryan State Park to riding through Ely’s rugged trails, this tour promises a mix of adventure, history, and breathtaking views.

What truly stands out for us is the way this tour balances guided expertise with time to soak in Nevada’s unique landscapes. Plus, the inclusion of a railroad journey and visits to iconic parks like Great Basin give it an extra layer of richness. However, it’s worth noting that the tour’s physical demands, especially on biking days, mean it’s best suited for those with moderate fitness levels. Overall, if you love outdoor adventures with a side of Nevada’s history and local flavor, this trip will hit the spot.

One thing to consider: the price tag of $3,995 per person isn’t trivial. Still, considering the inclusions like guided biking, hotel stays, and special excursions, many will find it offers good value for a well-curated, immersive experience. This tour is ideal for active travelers who appreciate scenic beauty, historical sites, and the camaraderie of a small group.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary combining biking, hiking, and train rides offers a varied experience.
• Expert guides provide valuable insights into Nevada’s natural and cultural sites.
• The tour caters to moderate fitness levels, with some challenging trail options.
• Well-organized logistics, including transportation, bike rentals, and hotel stays, streamline the experience.
• The focus on local cuisine and scenic stops enhances the authentic Nevada vibe.
• Small group size (max. 8 travelers) ensures personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

An In-Depth Look at What You Can Expect

This Nevada adventure is designed to give you a taste of the state’s incredible landscapes and historic railroads while keeping the experience accessible for mid-level cyclists and hikers. Let’s break down what each day offers, and why each stop might be a highlight or a consideration.

Day 1: Kershaw Ryan State Park – A Perfect Introduction

Your journey begins at the Alexis Park Hotel Resort in Las Vegas, where a quick meet-and-greet sets the tone. After bike fitting at the local shop, you’ll head through Nevada’s dry, rugged terrain to Caliente, a small town that acts as a gateway to the state’s outdoor wonders.

The highlight here is the half-day ride in Kershaw Ryan State Park. Surrounded by dramatic canyon walls, the system boasts flowy single tracks and open trails—great for easing into the overall trip. You’ll enjoy a picnic lunch before hitting the trails, which span about 7-10 miles. Reviewers mention the trails as having a “nice flow” and being “beautiful,” making this a gentle yet scenic start.

Day 2: Mountain Biking in Ella Mountain and Barnes Canyon

Today ramps up the adventure with a full day of mountain biking into the hills around Caliente. Riders will cover approximately 15-20 miles, weaving through trails suited for both beginners and more experienced riders. The route offers stunning views of Teepee Rocks and colorful soils, with some trails featuring technical downhill sections.

The guides dynamically select trails fitting everyone’s skill level, and reviewers praise the expert guidance and the chance to enjoy Nevada’s rugged landscape in comfort. Expect a combination of flowy trails and technical descents, perfect for those looking to challenge themselves without feeling overwhelmed.

Day 3: En Route to Ely – Cathedral Gorge and Historic Town Tour

The drive north offers a scenic transition from desert to mountainous terrain, with a highlight being the visit to Cathedral Gorge State Park. The park’s slot canyons and natural formations make for a memorable short hike, perfect for photos and exploration.

Arriving in Ely, the tour introduces you to Nevada’s lesser-known mining town charm with a quick town tour before heading out to Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park. The charcoal ovens, still intact from the 19th century, are impressive relics of Nevada’s silver rush era. The short hike here provides a taste of Nevada’s industrial past and a chance to stretch your legs after the drive.

Day 4: Ely Mountain Trails – Ward Mountain Ride

This day combines relaxation with adventure, with a shorter, half-day mountain bike ride around Ward Mountain. Trails here are known for their fast flowy descents and moderate climbs, offering a thrilling ride with views of the town below and surrounding valleys.

The trails are diverse—rocky, narrow, smooth—and provide perfect terrain for riders of moderate skill. Reviewers mention how Ely’s trail system is surprisingly accessible and varied, making it a noteworthy stop even for those unfamiliar with Nevada’s outdoor scene.

Day 5: Cave Lake State Park – A Full-Day Ride

Cave Lake State Park is a highlight for many. Offering longer, more relaxed rides, this day is about enjoying Nevada’s diverse terrain. The loops here can be up to 12 miles and include steep climbs and long, flowing descents, passing through forests, limestone cliffs, and lakeside views.

The High Roller Trail grants sweeping vistas, while the Twisted Pines Trail promises fun downhills. Reviewers raved about the delicious local food truck lunch, making this a perfect mix of adventure and local flavor. The trails’ diversity ensures you’ll experience Nevada’s wild landscape from several angles.

Day 6: Great Basin National Park – Caves and High Altitude Views

This day offers a change of pace with a visit to Nevada’s only national park. The Lehman Cave tour is a key highlight, with a ranger guiding you through stunning limestone formations. The tour lasts about 60-90 minutes and is accessible for most visitors.

After the cave tour, a short mountain bike ride around Sacramento Pass (about 3-5 miles) allows you to enjoy Nevada’s high-altitude scenery. The ride’s modest elevation change (~700 feet) keeps it doable after a morning of exploring underground marvels, and the views of the park are spectacular.

Day 7: Nevada Northern Railway Museum and Return to Vegas

Your final day involves a historic steam train ride, a nostalgic trip that showcases Nevada’s railroad past. The live steam engines are still operational, adding authenticity and charm to the experience. It’s a gentle way to reflect on your adventure before heading back to Las Vegas.

Post-ride, you’ll enjoy lunch and have some free time for last-minute shopping or relaxing before the approximately 6-hour drive back to Vegas.

The Value of This Tour

At $3,995 per person, the tour covers a lot—expert guides, all accommodations, most meals, bike rentals, and entry fees. While the upfront cost might seem high, it’s important to consider what’s included: transportation, guided biking, hotel stays, and special excursions like the railroad and cave tours. The fact that there’s a small group (maximum 8 travelers) ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

Travelers who value guided outdoor adventures, appreciate local history and scenery, and want a convenient, all-inclusive package will find this trip offers excellent value. The focus on authentic Nevada sites, paired with professional guidance, makes this a compelling option for active, curious travelers.

What We Love About This Tour

• The expert guides (like the ones praised for their helpfulness and knowledge) elevate the experience, making navigation and trail choices seamless.
• The scenic stops such as Cathedral Gorge and Great Basin add cultural and natural richness.
• The diversity of activities keeps each day fresh—biking, hiking, cave exploring, and train riding.
• The local culinary touches, including delicious meals like falafel and farm-to-table lunches, add a satisfying taste of Nevada.
• The small group size ensures a relaxed, engaging atmosphere.

Considerations for Travelers

• The tour is moderate in physical demand; some days feature longer rides and technical trails, so a decent fitness level is recommended.
• The price reflects a premium experience, but many say it offers good value given the inclusions and quality of guides.
• Bottled water isn’t provided, so bringing a refillable bottle is a smart idea.
• Evening meals are not included, but the guides help with reservations, giving you flexibility.
• The tour departs only on select Sundays from March to November, so planning ahead is key for availability.

This experience appeals most to active travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures but want guidance and a structured itinerary. It suits those with moderate biking skills and a curiosity to explore Nevada’s lesser-known parks and historic sites. If you’re after a combination of physical activity, scenic beauty, and local culture, this trip ticks all those boxes.

While it’s not designed for absolute beginners or hardcore mountain bikers, it strikes a good balance—offering enough challenge to feel rewarding without feeling overwhelming. If you’re traveling with a partner or friends who like different activity levels, the flexible trail options and guided approach make it feasible for everyone to enjoy.

FAQ

• How physically demanding is this tour?
  It’s designed for moderate fitness levels. Expect some days with longer rides and technical trails, but guides tailor trail choices to suit the group.

• Are bikes included?
  Yes, full suspension mountain bikes are provided, fitted properly for each rider for the entire trip.

• Can I rent additional gear or purchase supplies?
  Yes, gear such as pedals can be rented or purchased if needed at the bike shop.

• Are meals included?
  Breakfasts are provided for 6 mornings, and 7 lunches are included, often featuring local or specialty foods.

• What about accommodations?
  You’ll stay in 3-star hotels, with twin-share or solo private rooms, all arranged for comfort and convenience.

• Is the tour suitable for children or teenagers?
  Guests must be 18 or older, so it’s best suited for adult travelers.

• What’s the best time of year to go?
  Tour departures are from March through November, with good weather and trail conditions generally.

• What’s the maximum group size?
  The tour is limited to 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

• Are optional activities available?
  Yes, guides can help organize additional activities or dinners, but evening meals are not included in the package.

• How do I get to the meeting point?
  The tour starts at the Alexis Park Resort in Las Vegas, which is accessible via public transportation or car.

The Nevada Trails to Rails Tour offers a well-crafted blend of outdoor adventure, historic exploration, and local flavor. It’s best suited for active, curious travelers who appreciate guided experiences and want to see Nevada beyond the bright lights of Vegas. The combination of riding through stunning parks, exploring historic sites, and enjoying local cuisine makes for a memorable and rewarding week.

Travelers looking for a balanced, small-group tour that emphasizes authentic scenery and meaningful activities will find this tour offers great value and genuine fun. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a passionate hiker eager to discover Nevada’s hidden gems, this trip has something special in store.

In summary, the Nevada Trails to Rails Tour is a fantastic choice for those keen on exploring Nevada’s diverse landscapes with knowledgeable guides, enjoying delicious local food, and experiencing its historic railroads—all while staying active and engaged.