City: Gardnerville, NV

Category: Golf

Telephone: (775) 265-3181

Address: 1027 Riverview Drive

Description: Just by the address, you can guess the biggest hazard on this course: water. The East Fork of the Carson River snakes its way through this 18-hole course, creating a natural water hazard on all but two holes, so bring plenty of extra golf balls. Even though it’s not in the mountains, its fairways are still narrow with a lot of rough and out of bounds, but at least you won’t have to worry about pine trees—here, it’s towering cottonwoods that line the fairways. Although it’s a joy to play, it can be quite frustrating if you can’t hit a straight shot. Carson Valley has a real rustic feel to it and is located on the outskirts of one of the prettiest small towns in Nevada. (Check out the Day Trips chapter for more to see and do in Gardnerville.) Yardage: 6,003 Par: 71 USGA rating: 66.8 Slope: 111 Greens fees: $40 to $46 Reservations: 7 days in advance; beyond 7 days, a credit card is required

City: Gardnerville, NV

Category: Parks & Recreation

Telephone: (775) 782-3047

Description: It’s the only way to get around in a few corners in the world, but in Hope Valley, just 30 minutes from South Shore Lake Tahoe, riding in a dogsled is a winter experience that’s uniquely entertaining. You can drive through this beautiful valley, and you can also cross-country ski and snowshoe in it, but skimming across the snow, bundled in blankets, behind eight highly trained dogs, offers a different perspective altogether. A one-hour ride is $100 for adults and $50 for children, with a minimum charge of $185. The sled can accommodate up to 375 pounds. Moonlight, picnic, and special-event rides are also offered, but you need to reserve in advance.