The One Nevada Town That's So Perfectly Western
By Mychelle Blake
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Published November 13, 2016
There are many towns in Nevada that are absolutely worth a visit. Winnemucca in Northern Nevada is symbolic of many of Nevada’s cities, with a strong sense of history and a callback to the past combined with incredible outdoor recreational opportunities.
Winnemucca is the county seat for Humboldt County.
Winnemucca sits on the "Winnemucca to the Sea Highway" which takes you along several different linked highways straight to the Pacific Ocean. In all total it's about a 300-mile trip.
The town's name comes from Chief Winnemucca of the Paiute tribe.
His daughter, Sarah Winnemucca, was a well-known activist for her people and also the Shoshone tribe. She was the author of the very first autobiography of a Native American female.
Like many towns in Northern Nevada, Winnemucca began as a waypoint for miners and settlers heading west to California.
Winnemucca is called the "Oasis of the Desert."
This quintessential Western town has lots of options for residents and visitors. Several casinos, outdoor recreational options, and historical places are a part of the opportunities in this town.
Winnemucca has a large Basque population like several other towns in the area.
The Basques originally moved to the area back in the early times when it was first being settled. They came to become sheep herders and their culture and food have a strong influence on the town. Each year a Basque festival is held to celebrate their contributions to Winnemucca.
The Humboldt County Courthouse was built in 1919.
The building's architecture has been compared to Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson.
The Winnemucca State Bank and Trust Company Building is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
The volunteer fire department has an art deco meets western sensibility design.
The town has many colorful murals featuring western and cowboy-themed images.
The Union Pacific Railroad passes through Winnemucca's Amtrak station.
The town is right on the Humboldt River and has some lovely parks.
The Somona Mountain Range is nearby and provides many outdoor options.
Hunting and fishing are big activities in the area. It's also known for some excellent mountain biking. The Winnemucca Trail System, which is 36 miles, is called "Bloody Shins Trail" by mountain biking enthusiasts.
What do you think is the town in Nevada that best exemplifies the “west?” Share your thoughts in the comments!
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