In the first installment of our series on lesser-known and unusual Nevada vacation attractions, we started with the premise that there was much to do in Nevada outside the city limits of Las Vegas, Reno, and Lake Tahoe.

Our first article was about the Great Cave Lake Bathtub Race and the historic Hotel Nevada in Ely. This chapter in our series is about the hot springs at Ash Springs and its unique aquatic critters. See pictures at end of article.

Something unusual to tell your friends

Ash Springs is a virtual oasis situated in the southeastern Nevada desert approximately 110 miles north of Las Vegas just off US Hwy 93, and seven miles from the small town of Alamo. By the time you arrive at the Springs, you will be ready for a good stretch, and perhaps a good soak in the pleasantly relaxing 80 to 92 degree water.

The surrounding area is lush and green with Cottonwood trees, indigenous cacti, wildflowers, and various desert grasses and weeds,and not much of anything else, except the marvelously soothing hot springs.

As for essentials, there is a modern and clean restroom building on site.

As you approach the crystal-clear pool from the nearby parking lot, you cannot help but notice a large number of bluish silver two-inch fish. The fish are very friendly, and perhaps that is one reason why they are on the endangered species list. The fish are the Cyprinodon Nevadensis aka Nevada Pupfish.

The normal food source for the Pupfish is water plants and insects, but the little dickens have an unusual habit, they enjoy nibbling on dry skin and tiny hairs. They become immediately attentive to anyone who dips a weary foot or two into the warm water of the spring.

Several people were receiving their au naturel pedicure when we arrived. Some admitted they had been sitting on the shore enjoying their feet being snacked upon for the better part of an hour. Others who had finished taking pleasure in the energizing symbiotic process raved about how great their feet felt after the work-over.

If you try the tingling-little-fish-foot-treatment, you are guaranteed to have the most remarkable topic of conversation at the next gathering of family and friends.

Remember Alamo

You will probably need a good rest after a fun day of picnicking and soaking at Ash Springs, and we know just the place. Windmill Ridge Lodging and Restaurant is in nearby Alamo on Highway 93.

Windmill Ridge is a new facility with fifteen upscale cabins, all decorated in an Old West theme. It is big-city comfort right there in the middle of the desert.

Quiet air conditioning, jet tubs, flat screen TVs, and free internet access are all part of the offering. The restaurant has a complete menu, the food is excellent, and the homemade baked deserts are to die for. Yum! For more information and reservations, check out their website at http://wind-mill-ridge.com, or email contact@wind-mill-ridge.com

From hot springs to cool caves

In our next article about beyond-the-cities Nevada, we will feature the Great Basin National Park, and one of its main attractions, the dark and mysterious Lehman Caves.

Happy travels!

© Travels with Wayne and Judy (syndicated)
Photos © Wayne and Judy Bayliff

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