Drive from South Reno to Virginia City “the back way”. Start at the north end of Rio Wrangler, go through the gate (it’s Nevada, not California, so it’s perfectly fine), turn right at your first opportunity, go up past the water tank, make your way over that first hill, then more or less guess your way southeast. When you get to Lousetown Rd (and you will), take it south until you pop out onto Geiger Grade in the Virginia Highlands. Make a left and take the (lame) paved road into Virginia City. Bonus points if you stay on dirt to Seven Mile Canyon and come out on Six Mile Canyon. Guided tours are available (from me).