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Although the desert bighorn sheep carries the Nevada State Animal crown upon its curvy horns, there’s another worthy critter out here that we consider a just-as-deserving Silver State symbol: the one-and-only wild burro. Learn about what makes them such stalwart survivalists, their firm place in our rich mining history, and where you can see them yourself — and maybe even meet one face to snout.

From a precious gem found nowhere else on the continent, to a tree older than the Great Wall of China, to a creature who can go without water for a year and beyond, Nevada is pretty proud to own some impressive icons. Read on for 12 fixtures you can experience—and develop a newfound passion for—only in the Silver State.

Discover the best places to spot migratory birds, bighorn sheep, wild horses and burros, the world’s rarest fish, and tons more spectacular species at wildlife refuges, animal sanctuaries, and zoological parks around Nevada.

It doesn’t get much more out-of-town-for-the-weekend than this wild trip. Marked by stunning contrasts around every bend, this route blasts out of Vegas, winding through wide-open country to several Nevada state parks and a couple of historic, small-town-Nevada communities. Pro Tip? Pack all the things; this route is replete with chances for hiking, biking, swimming, fishing, endless photography, and a whole lot more.

This sunny city packs a splashy punch, boasting endless opportunities to get your kicks on the Colorado River. With boating, fishing, jet skiing, kayaking, and cruising at your fingertips (plus a lively riverwalk scene featuring almost a dozen amenity-packed resorts), it won’t take you long to learn why this family-friendly outdoor destination is one of our favorites to escape to for a night or two.

Ready to get out of town? Head south to Carson Valley, where a close-to-home adventure awaits. This charming community, with its mountain-studded backdrop, brims with hands-on Nevada history, amazing eats (grown a fork’s throw from your plate), and some of the Silver State’s most prized antique shopping, but also plenty of adrenaline-pumping activities, outdoor action, and sunset soaks to ensure there’s something for the whole fam—even for just one night.

Kickstart someone’s heart with a guided UTV tour. Or book them a night somewhere wild, like a rustic but luxed-up yurt high up in the Ruby Mountains. Then nab them a year-long Nevada State Parks Pass to dozens of action-packed parks, where they can rock fresh Nevada-designed outdoor gear, adventure accessories, and more.

Let’s face it: Interstate 80 is a stretch of highway you’ve probably blasted down, pedal-to-the-metal, on your way to somewhere, well… else. If so, you’ve been missing out. In fact, few parts of our state brim with as much western heritage and unspoiled scenic splendor as northeastern Nevada. Elko beckons western buffs with buckaroo art, cowboy crafts, and hearty meals, while glacier-carved Lamoille Canyon and Angel Lake promise to steal your breath, both on stunning hikes and through your camera lens. So pack your boots and bring your appetite for an Elko County adventure.

Know someone who loves to get their hands on Nevada’s history and heritage? Treat that devotee of days gone by to a guided tour at famous locales, like Lake Tahoe, Virginia City, or Boulder City—on foot, on the water, or even on one of the state’s three still-chuggin’ scenic railways.

From Wild West gunmen and mining-era lady entrepreneurs to historical celebrities like Mark Twain and Howard Hughes, get up close and personal with some of the larger-than-life personalities who helped shape Nevada’s, and discover where to follow in their footsteps today. Come meet some Legendary Nevadans.