The steep eastern slopes of the Sierra Nevada rise up to contain Lake Tahoe . The lake hangs over not only the State capital, but also the towns of Minden and Gardnerville , which are almost directly below it. Reno-Tahoe Territory is geographically compact, and Carson City , Reno and Sparks all make good bases from which to explore. Scheduled air services are provided by Trans World Express and Reno Air .
Car hire is widely available.
Reno Reno was founded at Lake's Crossing, where Myron Lake 's bridge crossed the Truckee River . Many gambling casinos are to be found downtown on Virginia Street including Harrah's, Nevada Club , the Eldorado , the Flamingo Hilton , Circus Circus, Silver Legacy, Fitzgerald's and the Sands Regency . A River Walk follows the river east past the Hilton and through Sparks , and westwards past an amphitheatre. The Stremmel Gallery is a thriving showcase for leading artists, as is the University of Nevada Reno campus. The Nevada Historical Society Museum is excellent for those wishing to learn about Nevada's history.