Virginia City is the best Old West day out within reach of Tahoe: a steep hillside town that sat on the Comstock Lode, once the richest silver strike in America, and still looks like it was built last century. This day trip from the lake rolls over the Carson Range, into the high desert and up to the boardwalks of C Street, with time for saloons, museums, a mine tour and, when the railroad is running, a ride on the historic V&T line. The train runs in the warm season only, so check the schedule when you book.
The Comstock Lode was discovered in 1859 and by the 1870s Virginia City had around 25,000 people, opera houses, a stock exchange and a newspaper that employed a young writer named Samuel Clemens, who took the name Mark Twain here. The boom ended, the population fell to a few hundred, and the town froze in time. Today C Street is a National Historic Landmark of brick storefronts, wooden boardwalks, saloons and gift shops, with the old mine buildings and cemetery still on the hillside above.
A day trip from Lake Tahoe handles the driving, which is a plus on the steep road up from the Carson Valley. The tour crosses the Sierra crest and drops into Nevada, with commentary on the route, and then gives you time on foot in town. Most visitors spend the time wandering C Street, ducking into saloons, touring a historic mansion or mine, and having a meal.
When the Virginia and Truckee Railroad is operating, the day often includes a steam or heritage train ride along a stretch of the old line to Gold Hill, one of the nicest short train rides in the West.
Know the season. The train and some attractions operate in the warm months, and winter days can be cold, snowy and quiet, with some businesses closed on weekdays. The town sits at about 6,200 feet, so dress for wind and sun. Wear comfortable shoes for the steep boardwalks, bring cash for small shops and be prepared for a full day of 8 to 10 hours depending on the itinerary.
If you drive yourself rather than join a tour, allow about 90 minutes each way from South Lake Tahoe and keep Mount Davidson and the Carson Valley views in mind. Pair it with an evening back at the lake to compare the two Wests, silver and sapphire.
What to expect
The experience
A guided day trip from Lake Tahoe to the historic Comstock town of Virginia City, Nevada, with free time on C Street and a heritage train ride when the railroad is operating.
Best time
May through October for the train and open attractions; winter trips are quieter and colder, with some venues closed.
How long
A full day, usually eight to ten hours round trip.
Tips
Wear sturdy shoes for steep boardwalks, carry some cash, and check the train schedule before you book. Bring a layer; it is windy at 6,200 feet.
Quick picks
- Best for
- History buffs and families who want a break from the lake and a taste of the Old West.
- Families
- Kids like the train, the saloon facades and the old mines; the steep sidewalks need good shoes.
- Couples
- A slow lunch on C Street and an afternoon in the museums, then back to the lake for dinner.
- Pair with
- A sunset at the lake or a spa evening at your hotel.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
When does the train run?+
The heritage railroad operates in the warm season only, generally from late spring through early autumn. Check the operator for current dates.
How far is it from Tahoe?+
About 45 minutes to 90 minutes by road depending on where you start; from South Lake Tahoe allow around 90 minutes each way.
Is it worth it in winter?+
Yes, if you enjoy a quieter town and do not mind cold and some closures. The train and a few attractions do not operate.
Why was Virginia City famous?+
The Comstock Lode, discovered in 1859, produced vast amounts of silver and gold and helped bankroll the nineteenth-century American West.
Is it suitable for children?+
Yes. The train, the boardwalks, the mines and the old saloons usually keep kids interested.
