This One Small Nevada Town Has More Outdoor Attractions Than Any Other Place In The State
By Emerson
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Published January 27, 2018
Austin is a tiny unincorporated town in central Nevada. Home to just 192 people, this place actually has a lot more going for it than meets the eye. Unbeknownst to a lot of people, Austin is a paradise for outdoor lovers. It may be an incredibly small town, but you’ll never run out of things to do here. If you’re looking for your next adventure, then check out some of these amazing things you can do in Austin.
Austin is an extremely historical town that's often described as a "living ghost town". The town itself is touted as one of the most well-preserved mining towns in Nevada. However, there's a lot more to this place than its unique history.
Austin's most notable attraction is the Stokes Castle which sits on a hill above the town.
This 1897 three-story structure looks like an authentic castle in the middle of the desert. A hike up to the castle is a must when you visit Austin.
Go for a soak in one of Nevada's most picturesque hot springs.
Spencer Hot Springs is located just right outside of the town. Its remote location allows visitors to soak in complete serenity while looking out on the incredible mountain landscape in the distance. The hot springs contains four different soaking areas which contain 130 degree mineral water. You could spend hours soaking away in this picturesque setting.
Take a hike on one of the most scenic trails in the West.
The Toiyabe Crest Trail stretches for more than 100 miles and contains jaw-dropping views of Nevada's wilderness. Die hard hikers will spend 2 or 3 days hiking the trail in its entirety, although completing small stretches of the trail is just as enjoyable. On the trail you'll see everything from Kingston Canyon to the Arc Dome Wilderness Area. This is some of the best hiking you can find in the state.
Explore the fascinating Toquima Cave.
Toquima Cave is a prehistoric volcanic rock shelter. The cave gives you a unique insight into how prehistoric people lived. On the cave's walls you can even see paintings that were left behind by the ancient Shoshone Native Americans. The fascinating treasures in the cave are more than worth the hike up to it.
Go on a self-guided tour through Austin's petroglyph sites.
24 miles east of Austin is a short trail that leads you to Hickison Summit. The trail leads you through several ancient sites where you can view actual petroglyphs, some of which are thought to be up to 10,000 years old. Prehistoric hunters passed through this area as they hunted migratory deer herds, and the petroglyphs are a fascinating look at their lives.
The trail also features incredible views of the valley below. It's the perfect day activity for people wishing to immerse themselves in history and nature. The area also includes several campsites and a day-use area.
There are several picturesque places around Austin to set up camp for the weekend. The nearby Big Creek campground is only 12 miles from Austin and is situated in the Reese River Valley.
The recreational opportunities are endless in this region. Kingston Canyon is another popular campground that is located just 36 miles from Austin.
Wind down after a long day of adventuring by exploring the town of Austin itself. This quaint community is just bursting with small town charm.
Austin may be located along Nevada's "Loneliest Road in America", but its far from the desolate and boring town you'd think it would be. This old mining town is a recreational haven. Spend a day exploring one of their rugged hiking trails and historical sites. You might just find that Austin is your new favorite getaway.
Have you been to Austin? Check out our list of 10 Epic Outdoorsy Things In Nevada Anyone Can Do for more awesome outdoor attractions.
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