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People and Places
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#2 In a Series
People and Places
By Gina Smith
Contributing Writer
 If you are in the mood for unusual rock formations, cave exploring, and amazing views, then Cathedral Gorge State Park is the place to be! For the full scope, and a great overall experience, make sure you go up to Miller Point as well as explore the caves. The scenic views of Miller Point are amazing in color and unusual formations. These rock formations are actually caused by the earth movement and volcanic material. The scenic views reminded an early resident of European cathedrals, hence the name Cathedral Gorge (actually originally named Cathedral Gulch.) On the way to the picnic area in Cathedral Gorge State Park, you pass by the neat looking old stone water tower, was built in 1934. This water tower was only in operation for a couple of years due to the high alkali content of the water. The well was capped and the tower is no longer in use. The park became a state park in 1935. The park has a 4 mile and a 1 mile hiking trail. It is also perfect for a picnic and camping as well.
Make sure you drop by the information center at the edge of the park. This is actually an information center that covers ALL of the state parks for the region, not just Cathedral Gorge. As one of the friendly staff pointed out to me, if you are 65 years or older, have lived in Nevada 4 years or longer, you are eligible to purchase a yearly pass for $15! This covers day and night use for ALL the parks in Nevada! That is one great bargain!
If you are up for a weekend of camping, and I mean REAL outdoor camping, then Beaver Dam State Park is the place for you! Approximately 30 miles on a dirt road from highway 93, and 35 plus miles away from Caliente, you will find many treasures along the way. Beautiful scenery, rugged mountainsides, wild flowers covering the rolling hills, wildlife and a cattle range grace the drive. Inside the park there is plenty of hiking and exploring to be done with rugged true Nevada scenery to enjoy. Or, if you prefer setting up camp and settling in with a good book and watching the view and wildlife from your favorite camping chair. Make sure you bring your provisions; the nearest store is 37 miles away!
Recently while exploring, I stumbled upon a tree with what looked like beaver teeth marks- and half the tree trunk was gone! Being born and raised in Lincoln County, I have plenty of fond memories in both of these places. With school outings, family trips, and 4-H camps, these truly rate at the top of the list of great places in Lincoln County, for residents and visitors alike!
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