If Lovelock were summed up in one word, it would be otherworldly. A popular choice.
Nevada road trip
Traveling along the Cowboy Corridor will lead you through this quaint town. Situated midway between Reno and Winnemucca, it gives off an old-world feel. The area is dotted with snug houses designed in the Moderne architectural style and grand white churches adorned with spires. What might immediately catch your attention though, is the town’s distinctive name: Lovelock.
The town greets visitors with the message “Seal Your Affection in Lovelock” displayed prominently on its signboard. For many years, couples have been attracted to this charming town to lock their affection at the historical Lovelock Plaza.
Individuals attach locks to bridges.
here and other places in honor of an ancient Chinese tradition. In Lovelock, a chain around a circle of metal pillars bears the weight of more than 1,000 prayers for love that will endure as long as the lock remains fastened.
Visiting Lovelock isn’t complete without exploring the Humboldt River, leading you to expansive reservoirs within the Rye Patch State Recreation Area—a highlight among Lovelock’s attractions. Enjoy your time here by trekking through beautiful paths, cooling off beneath the sunny skies, or lounging beside the water reading a favorite novel as you fish for catfish or bass. After relishing nature, make sure to stop by Gold Diggers Saloon and Grubhouse for delicious pizzas. Don’t miss out on their popular slow-roasted pork feasts available certain days; just check beforehand. If one day seems too brief, consider camping overnight at Rye Patch Campground for around $20 per night when arriving from another state.
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Discover Inns, Customs, and the Enduring Myths of Lovelock
Although these locations are perfect choices when you’ve got just one day, travelers with more time at their disposal should consider exploring Lovelock’s rich cultural scene further. In Lovelock, finding affordable lodging options won’t be challenging; rooms typically cost about $100 per night. The town provides exclusively three-star accommodations like hotels and motels, with The Cadillac Inn standing out as a popular choice for guests. During your visit, make sure to delve into the captivating tales surrounding Lovelock Cave, such as the legend of the Lovelock Cannibals—also known as the Si-Te-Cah—or the so-called red-haired giants.
Originally, Lovelock was inhabited by the Paiutes, an indigenous group from the Great Basin area of North America, whose descendants continue to be a substantial portion of the community today. If you visit one of the numerous bars around town such as Whiskey Barrel, you could encounter a native Paiute eager to recount some aspects of this place’s rich past. Within their ancient cultural practices, oral storytelling holds great value among the Paiutes. You may find yourself listening to stories about monumental conflicts and the ultimate decline of the Si-Te-Cah. Legend has it that the Paiutes drove out the final remnants of these tall beings with fiery red hair, leading them towards Lovelock Cave where they were cornered and perished in flames. This tale is both gripping and intriguing at once. Similar to
Nevada’s ancient saltwater lake
Considered holy by the Paiutes, Lovelock Cave itself has emerged as a sanctified location.
A Hot Air Balloon Festival and a Cave Formerly Occupied by Giants
Legends about towering figures near Lovelock Cave are more than just myths. It has been claimed that mummified bodies purportedly exceeding 10 feet in height were found within this cavern, which is said to house remnants of early inhabitants of America. Moreover, numerous Native American relics have come to light during excavations here, such as the ancient Tule Duck Decoys—recognized as the earliest known examples of their kind.
Lovelock Cave lies approximately 20 miles away from the primary town. Whether you’re embarking on a journey along the Cowboy Corridor or landing at the Reno-Tahoe International Airport (which is roughly an hour and twenty minutes from Lovelock), you have the option of staying in the main town and driving out to visit the cave. The site remains accessible every day throughout the entire year. Additionally, history enthusiasts will find another small gem in Lovelock: the Lovelock Historic Depot — this structure stands as the sole surviving Southern Pacific Railroad depot.
If you wish to explore several attractions or spend a couple of days in Lovelock, steer clear of scheduling your trip during summertime when temperatures soar. Opt instead for fall, winter, or spring visits. For enthusiasts of hot air balloon festivals, plan your journey in early February close to Valentine’s Day. Before finalizing your stay, ensure the desired accommodation has openings. The town offers an intriguing mix of allure and refined simplicity, making it memorable even once you’ve departed.
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