It’s undeniable that Carson City is filled with fantastic history—it is the state’s capital, after all. In fact, there’s so much to see and do in this historic city that it’s all a bit overwhelming. But don’t let that deter you. Simply check out the Kit Carson Trail, a path through Carson City’s historic district that leads you to more than 60 different landmarks. This trail makes it easy and fun to learn about this town’s rich history. Be sure to follow the blue line the next time you’re in Carson City and check it out for yourself!
The Kit Carson Trail is a walking path that winds its way through Carson City's historic district. Featuring stops at some of the city's most iconic historic landmarks, a stroll on this trail is great fun for any Nevadan with an interest in state history.
Finding the Kit Carson Trail is easy. You can pick up a physical map of the trail, complete with historic markers, at the Carson City Visitors Center. Alternatively, you can view the map on your phone or download it from Visit Carson City's website.
The 2.5-mile trail is marked throughout town via a solid blue line on the sidewalk's edge. You can hop on the trail anywhere you'd like, but its official start is at the Nevada State Museum. Formerly the U.S. Mint that operated until 1893, it represents the very first stop on this history-filled trail.
The trail then heads west along Robinson Street before making a turn south on Mountain Street. This section of the trail takes you to several of Carson City's historic Victorian-era houses, including the Governor's Mansion.
In fact, you'll pass a ton of historic houses that belonged to prominent families from Nevada's early days. However, you'll see a lot of other structures, too, including a few churches. The St. Peter's Episcopal Church was built in 1862 and once housed Nevada's first governor, Henry Blasdel. It is very significant to Nevada's history since it's considered the oldest surviving State Governor's residence.
Near the end of the trail on Carson Street, you'll see the old Paul Laxalt Building. Constructed in 1891, it was the very first federal office constructed in the state. It was designed by famous architect Mifflin E. Bell, who included a unique three-faced clock atop the structure's 106-foot tower.
Delve head-first into Nevada's history and take a stroll along Carson City's Kit Carson Trail. With more than 60 century-old landmarks located along the trail, your time will be well spent uncovering everything it has to offer!
Have you ventured at all along the famous Kit Carson Trail? There’s so much to love about our state’s capital city, don’t you think? Share your favorite Carson City things in the comments below!
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