Hottest, driest, lowest: Death Valley is a land of extremes. But this valley is also a land of subtle beauties: morning light creeping across eroded badlands, lengthening shadows on sand dunes, and the colors of myriad wildflowers. Travelers who come during the cool season will find an enormous stretch of land to explore.

Running through the central Nevada Desert, the so-called Extraterrestrial Highway has achieved a quirky fame from its proximity to the shadowy Area 51, known to UFO buffs everywhere. But this area of the state has its share of terrestrial attractions as well, including colorful canyons, reservoirs, parks, and a wildlife refuge.

Lake Mead National Recreation Area has 1.5 million acres on the banks of the Colorado River, Lake Mead and Lake Mohave.

Laughlin, Nevada is a major gambling destination just across the Arizona border from Bullhead City, Arizona. Laughlin attracts some five million visitors a year with a busy hub of restaurants, shopping, showrooms, and casinos along the Colorado River.

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is the antithesis to the frantic pace of Las Vegas. Located a short drive to the west of the Las Vegas strip, Red Rock Canyon is peaceful and serene, with Navajo Sandstone walls jutting from the Mojave Desert floor. Visitors to Red Rock Canyon enjoy hiking, rock climbing, and the scenery.