Carson River Canyon in Lyon County, Nevada, is a scenic passage of the Carson River with close ties to nearby Carson City, which has worked to buy 900 acres for open space and recreation. Beyond its natural setting, the canyon holds an important place in Nevada transportation history. During the silver boom, the Virginia and Truckee Railroad ran through it, linking the canyon to one of the state's major historic rail lines. Part of that route is now being reconstructed for tourism, giving the canyon both environmental and historical significance.