Just a short drive from the glitz of the Las Vegas strip lies the eerie remains of Nelson Ghost Town, a fascinating piece of Nevada’s Wild West history. This guide will cover everything you need to know to plan the perfect day trip from Vegas to explorer this abandoned mining town.
From navigating the drive to wandering historic buildings and taking a mine tour, read on for tips to make the most of your Nelson Ghost Town adventure!
Brief History of Nelson Ghost Town
Before diving into the details, here’s a quick background on Nelson Ghost Town:
- Founded in 1861 after the discovery of gold in the area
- Grew into a thriving mining town through the late 1800s
- Reputation as a lawless, dangerous wilderness outpost
- Mining declined in the early 1900s, leading to the town’s abandonment
- Remains preserved as a “living ghost town” since the 1990s
- Over 300 intact buildings to explore on the 200 acre site
This turbulent history sets the scene for a thrilling look into Nevada’s past! Now let’s get into the specifics on visiting.
How to Get to Nelson Ghost Town From Las Vegas
The drive from Las Vegas to Nelson Ghost Town is simple and straightforward:
Distance: Approximately 45 miles
Time: Around 45 minute drive
Route: Head north on US-95 then take exit 17 onto NV-165 E. Remain on NV-165 for about 25 miles.
Nelson Ghost Town will be on your right hand side after passing Crescent Peak. There is signage for the entrance.
Having your own car is essential, as there is no public transportation option. A rental car will give you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
When to Visit Nelson Ghost Town
Nelson Ghost Town is open daily:
Hours: 8:00am – 6:00pm
Closed: Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve (after 12PM), Christmas Day
Summer months can get quite hot, exceeding 100°F. Late fall, winter and spring offer more moderate temperatures for exploring.
Aim to arrive early so you have plenty of time to wander before the midday heat. Sun protection is a must any time of year.
What to See and Do at Nelson Ghost Town
Wandering the sandy roads and peeking inside dilapidated buildings of Nelson Ghost Town provides a thrilling glimpse into the past. Here are some key highlights:
- General Store – Check-in point and place to buy snacks & drinks
- Gas Station – Old pumps and vintage vehicles surround the abandoned station
- Motel sign – Huge, rusty sign makes for fun photo opps
- Barn – Filled with historic items, if open for viewing
- Church – Small chapel available for weddings
- Plane wrecks – Remnants from filming on the property
- Mine Tour – Descend into the Techatticup mine (fee applies)
- Photo shoots – Reserve time for professional pics amid the haunting scenery
Expect plenty of Instagram-worthy settings for spooky and artsy photographs! Be respectful when shooting and don’t break or take anything.
What to Expect at the Nelson Ghost Town Mine
Taking a guided tour into the dark, twisty tunnels of the historic Techatticup Mine adds another level of adventure to the Nelson Ghost Town experience!
Tours generally run at 9am, 12pm and 2pm daily. Call +1 702-291-0026 to confirm tour times for the day of your visit.
The hour long tour costs $15 for adults and $10 for kids 5-12 years old. Cash only is accepted. Sturdy closed toe shoes are required for safety.
Descending into the mine you’ll gain fascinating insight into the challenging work of extracting precious metals. It’s the #1 can’t miss attraction at Nelson Ghost Town!
Tips for Visiting Nelson Ghost Town:
To ensure you have the best experience on your day trip to Nelson Ghost Town, keep these tips in mind:
- Arrive early before peak heat and crowds
- Pay entry fee at general store upon arrival
- Wear closed toe shoes and watch for snakes
- Pack sun protection – hat, sunscreen, shades
- Bring plenty of water and snacks
- Watch your step around rusty objects and unstable floors
- Look but don’t touch artifacts or take souvenirs
- Be mindful of resident caretakers on site
- Use restroom before arriving as facilities are limited
Following any instructions from staff and taking common sense safety precautions will allow you to soak up the ghost town vibes in the best way!
Plan Your Exciting Day Trip from Vegas
With its unique old west atmosphere, Nelson Ghost Town makes for a great break from the neon lights of Las Vegas. Wandering the sandy streets transports you back in time to Nevada’s rugged mining era.
Have your camera ready to capture each weathered facade in the desert sun. And be prepared to come away with a new appreciation for the resilient souls who lived out west over a century ago!
Let us know if you have any other questions about making the trip. Nelson Ghost Town is calling! Just a short drive away lies this incredible portal into Nevada’s storied past.
