Things to do in Nye County Nevada

Welcome to Nye County, Nevada—a realm of fascinating contrasts, where the Old West echoes through historic ghost towns and nature’s grandeur unveils itself in stunning desert landscapes and dark sky parks. As Nevada’s largest county, Nye offers a tapestry of experiences that encapsulates the spirit of the American West.

From the hushed mysteries of Area 51 to the shimmering expanse of the Amargosa Valley, to the untamed wilderness of the Toiyabe National Forest, Nye County is a treasure trove of history, nature, and adventure that’s waiting to be explored.

Prepare yourself to dive into an authentic Nevada experience, where the timeless allure of rugged landscapes, abundant wildlife, and the enduring echoes of human history are all woven into a spectacular journey.

Nye County Nevada

Nye County Nevada Overview

Nye is Nevada’s largest county by area and the third-largest county in the contiguous United States, behind Coconino County of Arizona and San Bernardino County of California.

The county has several environmentally sensitive areas, including Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, the White River Valley, several Great Basin sky islands, and part of Death Valley National Park.

Year Established/Founded

1864

Nye County Nevada History

Nye County was founded in 1864, taking its name from James W. Nye, who served as the first governor of the Nevada Territory and later as a U.S senator. The county’s origins are firmly rooted in the discovery of silver and gold in the region, sparking a rapid influx of prospectors and settlers during the 19th century, and leading to a boom in mining communities like Belmont and Tybo. As you walk the remnants of these ghost towns, you’ll find a tangible link to the hardy souls who once sought their fortunes beneath the rugged Nevada landscape.

The 20th century brought another significant chapter to Nye County’s history, with the establishment of the Nevada Test Site (now the Nevada National Security Site) in 1951. Covering over 1,360 square miles, the site was the location of over 1,000 nuclear tests during the Cold War era and continues to be a subject of intrigue and speculation.

In the eastern part of the county lies the enigmatic Area 51, one of the United States’ most tightly guarded secrets, whose presence has spawned decades of extraterrestrial theories and a unique, cult tourist attraction.

The history of Nye County is also intertwined with the story of its indigenous peoples, primarily the Shoshone tribe, who have been the stewards of this land for thousands of years. Sites such as the Tosawihi Quarries, rich in chert used for toolmaking, offer insights into their long-standing relationship with the landscape.

From ancient petroglyphs to old mining towns and secret government facilities, the history of Nye County, Nevada, is a fascinating journey through time, offering a compelling glimpse into the dynamic and diverse past of the American West.

The county’s first boom came in the early 20th century, when Rhyolite and Tonopah, as well as Goldfield in nearby Esmeralda County, had gold and silver mining booms.

Timeline

1863-64 – During this period, gold and silver were discovered in the region, leading to the establishment of Nye County as part of the Nevada Territory.
1864 – Nye County is officially established from a portion of Esmeralda County. The first county seat is designated at Ione, a bustling mining town.
1867 – As mining thrives in Belmont, the county seat is moved from Ione to Belmont, becoming a vibrant center of commerce and industry.
1900 – Rhyolite, a new mining boomtown, is established, peaking in 1907 with a population of approximately 5,000 before its rapid decline.
1905 – Following the decline of Belmont, the county seat is changed again, this time to Tonopah, with its lucrative silver mines marking a new era of prosperity.
1910 – The population plummets to around 7,500, reflecting the erratic boom-bust cycles of mining towns.
1930s – The Great Depression caused a further decline in Nye County’s population and economic stability.
1951 – The Nevada Test Site, covering over 1,360 square miles, is established within Nye County, becoming the location of numerous nuclear tests during the Cold War.
1955 – The enigmatic Area 51 is established in the eastern part of the county, becoming a focal point of mystery and speculation.
Mid-20th Century – The population of Nye County sinks further to nearly 3,000 due to a combination of economic hardship and the decline of the mining industry.
21st Century – Today, Nye County is experiencing a revival of interest due to its rich history, stunning landscapes, and intriguing sites like Area 51, making it a unique destination for tourists seeking a taste of the authentic American West.

Towns in Nye County Nevada

Below are the unincorporated towns and communities:

Hiking in Nye County Nevada

Amargosa Valley

Crystal Marsh Loop – A 0.9-mile loop trail offering a quiet stroll through desert scrubland and past a seasonal marsh.

Arc Dome Wilderness

Toiyabe Crest Trail: A strenuous 35-mile trail that provides panoramic views of the entire county and beyond.

Beatty

Bailey’s Hot Springs is a 2-mile loop trail
Beatty Overlook Trail is a 1.1-mile loop trail
Oasis Valley South Meadow is a 1.2-mile loop trail
Rhyolite Ghost Town – A series of short trails spread across the historic ghost town, ranging from 0.5 to 2 miles, taking in key landmarks.
Thimble Peak Trail is a 3.2-mile lightly trafficked out-and-back trail
Titus Canyon Road is a 26-mile moderately trafficked point-to-point trail

Belmont

Belmont Courthouse Trail: This 0.5-mile out-and-back trail takes you to the historic Belmont Courthouse.

Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park

Fossil House Trail: A 0.5-mile trail that leads to a protected structure housing fossil remains of Ichthyosaurs.
Union and Company Mill Trail: A 1-mile loop that highlights the old mining operations.

Currant Mountain Wilderness

Currant Creek Trail: A challenging 10-mile trail along Currant Creek leading into the heart of the wilderness.

Gabbs

Alpha Mine Trail: A 2-mile out-and-back trail to the old Alpha Mine, featuring desert vistas and industrial history.

Round Mountain

Arc Dome Trail is a 26.1-mile lightly trafficked out-and-back trail
Mount Jefferson Trail is an 18-mile moderately trafficked loop trail
Trail North Twin River Road Trail is a 6.5 mile out and back trail
Pine Creek (Alta Toquima Wilderness) is an 11.6-mile moderately trafficked out-and-back trail
Smoky Valley Trails: A series of trails of varying lengths, perfect for exploring the desert landscape around Round Mountain.
Stewart Creek Trail is a 7.6-mile moderately trafficked loop trail
Toiyabe Crest Trail is a 36.9-mile lightly trafficked point-to-point trail

Tonopah

Historic Mining Park Trail: A 1.5-mile loop around the Tonopah Historic Mining Park, offering a glimpse into the town’s mining history.

Historical Points of Interest in Nye County Nevada

Nye County is home to multiple historical places on a state and national level. Below are the ones we are aware of:

National Register of Historic Places

Below are the places that are on the National Register of Historic Places in Nye County, Nevada with the name on the register, the date it was listed, the location, and the town.

National Register of Historic Places

Gatecliff Rockshelter – April 27, 1979 – Southeast of Austin
Berlin Historic District – November 5, 1971 – Off State Route 23
James Wild Horse Trap – November 19, 1974 – About 5 miles east of Fish Springs
Manhattan School – March 8, 2006 – Gold St. between Mineral St. and Dexter Ave.
Sedan Crater – March 21, 1994 – Area 10, Nevada Test Site
William H. Berg House – January 11, 1984 – Mariposa and Davis Sts.
Arthur Raycraft House – May 20, 1982 – Booker – St. Tonopah
Bass Building – May 20, 1982 – 119 St. Patrick – Tonopah
Belmont – June 13, 1972 – 46 miles northeast of Tonopah off State Route 82 – Tonopah
Board and Batten Cottage – May 20, 1982 – Edwards St. – Tonopah
Board and Batten Miners Cabin – May 20, 1982 – Burro Ave. – Tonopah
Brann Boardinghouse – May 20, 1982 – Bryan Street – Tonopah
Brokers Exchange – May 20, 1982 – 209-251 Brougher – Tonopah
Cada C. Boak House – May 20, 1982 – Ellis Street – Tonopah
Cal Shaw Adobe Duplex – May 20, 1982 – 129 Central – Tonopah
Cal Shaw Stone Row House – May 20, 1982 – Central Street – Tonopah
Campbell and Kelly Building – October 13, 1982 – Corona and Main Sts. – Tonopah
Charles Clinton Stone Row House – May 20, 1982 – 151 Central – Tonopah
Combellack Adobe Row House – May 20, 1982 – Central SStreet – Tonopah
Dr. J.R. Masterson House – May 20, 1982 – Ohio Ave. and 2nd St. – Tonopah
E.E. Burdick House – May 20, 1982 – 248 Prospect Street – Tonopah
E.R. Shields House – May 20, 1982 – 351 St. Patrick – Tonopah
Frame Cottage – May 20, 1982 – 183 Prospect Street – Tonopah
Frank Golden Block – May 20, 1982 – Brougher and Main Street – Tonopah
George A. Bartlett House – May 20, 1982 – McQuillan and Booker Street – Tonopah
H.A. McKim Building – May 20, 1982 – Main and Oddie Street – Tonopah
Hugh H. Brown House – October 13, 1982 – 129 Ellis Street – Tonopah
Irving McDonald House – May 20, 1982 – 191 Booker – Tonopah
Jim Butler Mining Company Stone Row Houses – May 20, 1982 – 314 Everett Ave. – Tonopah
John Gregovich House – May 20, 1982 – 101 Summit – Tonopah
Judge W.A. Sawle House – May 20, 1982 – 155 Central Street – Tonopah
Mizpah Hotel – July 7, 1978 – 100 Main Street – Tonopah
Nevada-California Power Company Substation and Auxiliary Power Building – July 26, 1982 – Corner of Knapp and Cutting Sts. – Tonopah
Nye County Courthouse – May 20, 1982 – McCulloch St. – Tonopah
Nye County Mercantile Company Building – May 20, 1982 – 147 Main St. – Tonopah
Samuel C. Dunham House – May 20, 1982 – Belmont Ave. – Tonopah
St. Marks P.E. Church – May 20, 1982 – 210 University Ave. – Tonopah
State Bank and Trust Company – May 20, 1982 – 102 Brougher – Tonopah
Stone Jail Building and Row House – May 20, 1982 – Water St. – Tonopah
Tonopah Liquor Company Building – May 20, 1982 – Main St. – Tonopah
Tonopah Mining Company Cottage – May 20, 1982 – Queen St. – Tonopah
Tonopah Mining Company House – May 20, 1982 – Queen St. – Tonopah
Tonopah Public Library – May 20, 1982 – 171 Central – Tonopah
Tonopah Volunteer Firehouse and Gymnasium – May 20, 1982 – Brougher and Burro Sts. – Tonopah
Tonopah-Extension Mining Company Power Building – May 20, 1982 – Main St. – Tonopah
Uri B. Curtis House – May 20, 1982 – 169 Booker St. – Tonopah
Uri B. Curtis House/Tasker L. Oddie House – May 20, 1982 – Ellis St. – Tonopah
US Post Office-Tonopah Main – February 28, 1990 – 201 Main St. – Tonopah
Verdi Lumber Company Buildings – May 20, 1982 – Main St. – Tonopah
Water Company of Tonopah Building – May 20, 1982 – Burro and Brougher Aves. – Tonopah
Wieland Brewery Building – May 20, 1982 – Mineral St. – Tonopah
Zeb Kendall House – May 20, 1982 – 159 University Ave. – Tonopah
Tybo Charcoal Kilns – November 19, 1974 – About 55 miles northeast of Tonopah off U.S. Route 6 – Tybo

Nevada Historical Markers in Nye County Nevada

Step back in time and uncover the fascinating stories that have shaped Nye County, Nevada, through the remarkable Nevada Historical Markers scattered throughout its picturesque landscapes.

From the towering peaks of the Toiyabe Range to the sun-soaked valleys that stretch as far as the eye can see, these markers offer a glimpse into the rich history that has unfolded in this captivating corner of the Silver State. Each marker serves as a tangible link to the past, inviting visitors to embark on a captivating journey of exploration and discovery.

Prepare to be transported to bygone eras as we delve into the treasure trove of Nye County’s historical markers, immersing ourselves in the triumphs, tragedies, and triumphs that have shaped the region’s unique identity.

#173 Beatty (Center of the Gold Railroads—”Chicago of the West”)
#138 Belmont
#42 Big Smoky Valley
#171 Chief Tecopa (Peacemaker of the Paiutes)
#159 Ione
#97 Manhattan “The Pine Tree Camp”
#165 Nevada Test Site
#58 Old Boundary (Nevada’s Southern Boundary 1861-1867)
#64 Ophir
#96 Round Mountain
#217 Tate’s Stage Station (1886-1901)
#15 Tonopah
#172 Tybo

Protected Areas

Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge
Death Valley National Park (part)
Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest (part)
Spring Mountains National Recreation Area (part)

Wilderness Areas

Welcome to the untamed and awe-inspiring wilderness areas of Nye County, Nevada.

Nestled within this vast and rugged landscape, these designated wilderness areas offer a sanctuary of pristine beauty and untouched nature. Far away from the bustling cities and urban sprawl, these protected lands invite adventurers and nature enthusiasts to embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of the wild. Nye County’s wilderness areas are a testament to the extraordinary biodiversity and fragile ecosystems that thrive in this corner of the Silver State.

Join us as we embark on a remarkable exploration of these untamed lands, where towering mountains, serene valleys, and breathtaking vistas await at every turn. Get ready to reconnect with the raw power and boundless wonders of nature as we delve into the wilderness areas of Nye County, an oasis of tranquility in a world that often seems too busy to notice.

Alta Toquima Wilderness Area was created, protecting approximately 38,000 acres in the upper elevations of the Toquima Range in northwestern Nye County.
Arc Dome Wilderness Area was created, protecting approximately 115,000 acres in the upper elevations of the Toiyabe Range in northwestern Nye County.
Far South Egans Wilderness Area (partly in Nye County, NV)
Grant Range Wilderness Area was created, protecting approximately 50,000 acres in the upper elevations of the Grant Range in northeastern Nye County.
Quinn Canyon Wilderness Area was created, protecting approximately 27,000 acres in the upper elevations of the Quinn Canyon Range in northeastern Nye County.
Red Mountain Wilderness Area (Humboldt NF) partly in Nye County, NV
South Egan Range Wilderness Area (partly in White Pine County, NV; Nye County, NV)
Table Mountain Wilderness Area was created, protecting approximately 98,000 acres of the Monitor Range in north-central Nye County.
Weepah Spring Wilderness Area (partly in Nye County, NV)

Natural Springs in Nye County Nevada

Nestled within this diverse and picturesque region, these pristine water sources offer a sanctuary of tranquility and an opportunity to reconnect with the earth’s rejuvenating power. Nye County’s natural springs are a testament to the unspoiled beauty that Nevada has to offer, drawing visitors and nature enthusiasts alike with their breathtaking landscapes, therapeutic waters, and rich biodiversity. Prepare to embark on a journey of exploration as we delve into the hidden wonders of these remarkable natural springs, immersing ourselves in their timeless allure and discovering the secrets they hold.

Click here to view all of the hot springs in Nye County, Nevada, and listed below are a FEW of the more popular hot springs to visit in Nye County:

Ash Meadows is home to several hot and warm springs
Bailey’s Hot Springs
Big Water Spring
Diana’s Punchbowl
Duckwater Hot Spring
Warm Springs

Ghost Towns and Mines in Nye County, Nevada

Step into a bygone era and unlock the mysteries of the past as we venture into the ghost towns and mines that dot the landscape of Nye County, Nevada.

Amidst the rugged beauty of this region, remnants of once-thriving settlements and bustling mining operations stand as silent witnesses to the rich history that unfolded here. These ghost towns and mines are time capsules, preserving stories of pioneers, prospectors, and the boom-and-bust cycles that shaped the destiny of Nye County.

As we wander through these abandoned streets and explore the remnants of mines that once yielded fortunes, we will uncover the tales of hope, resilience, and ingenuity that still echo through these weathered structures. Join us on a journey back in time, where the spirits of the past whisper their tales, and the legacy of Nevada’s mining heritage awaits discovery in the ghost towns and mines of Nye County.

Nye County, Nevada boasts an impressive collection of ghost towns, surpassing all other counties in the state. Within its borders lies a treasure trove of mining camps, mining districts, and ghost towns that bear witness to the rich history of this region. From the remnants of bustling mining operations to the echoes of past communities, Nye County’s landscape is adorned with these fascinating remnants of bygone eras.

Join us as we delve into the remarkable mining camps, mining districts, and ghost towns that make Nye County a true haven for history enthusiasts and explorers seeking to uncover the secrets of Nevada’s past.

Adaven
Allred
Amargosa
Amargosa Valley
Ames Camp
Ancram
Antelope
Antelope Springs
Archer
Arrowhead
Ash Meadows
Ashton
Athens
Atwood
Barcelona
Barrett
Baxter Spring
Beatty
Bellehelen
Belmont
Berlin
Black Spring
Blake’s Camp
Blue Eagle Springs
Bonita
Bonnie Claire
Bowlerville
Box Springs
Breyfogle
Browne’s Camp
Bruner (Phonolite)
Bullfrog
Butterfield Spring
Cactus Springs
Canyon
Carrara
Cedar Spring
Central
Central City
Centrasville
Chloride
Clarkdale
Clear Creek Mining District
Clifford
Cloverdale
Craig’s Station
Currant
Danville
Darrough Hot Springs
Death Valley Junction
Deep Well Station
Downeyville
Duckwater
Duluth (Phonolite)
East Manhattan
Eden
Ellendale
Ellsworth
Flower’s Camp
Frazier Wells
Gabbs
Georges Canyon
Glen Hamilton
Globe Mining District
Gold Bar
Gold Center
Gold Crater
Gold Flat
Golden
Golden Arrow
Goldyke
Granite
Grant City
Grantsville
Hannapah
Harriman
Hick’s Hot Springs
Hick’s Station
Horseshoe
Hot Creek
Idlewild
Illinois Mine
Indian Springs
Ione
Jackson Mining District
Jacksonville
Jamestown
Jefferson
Jett
Johnnie
Junction
Juniper (Juniper Springs)
Kawich
Keystone
Knickerbocker Mill
Lauville
Learville
Leeland
Liberty
Lockes – A town in northeastern Nye County on US 6 that was also known as Ostonside.
Lodi – A town, also known as Lodival, near the Mammoth Range in northwest Nye County, near the Churchill County line, in a valley of the same name. A mining district in the region, was discovered in 1863.
Logan Station
Longstreet
Lower Town
Manhattan
Manse Ranch
Marble Falls Canyon
Marysville
Mccann Station
Meikeljon
Mellan
Mexican Camp
Midway
Millett
Milton
Minnimums
Monarch
Montana Station (Bonnie Claire)
Moore’s Station
Morey
Mud Spring Station
Mule Lick
North Manhattan
Northumberland – A mining district in the Toquima Range in northern Nye County, organized in 1866 and named for a county in England.
Nyala – A town on the west slope of the Quinn Canyon Range, south of Lockes, and named as a derivative of Nye.
Oak Springs – A mining district located at Oak Spring on the east flank of the Belted Range near its southern end.
Ophir
Ophir Canyon
Original
Orizaba
Pactolus
Paradise Peak
Park Canyon
Paymaster Mine
Peavine
Peerless (Phonolite)
Penelas
Petersgold
Philadelphia (Silver Bend)
Phonolite
Pine Creek
Pioneer
Potomac
Potts
Pritchard’s Station
Project Fautless
Pueblo
Quartz Mountain
Ralston – Named in honor of Judge James E. Ralston, who died in the valley in 1864.
Ray
Reveille
Reveille Mill
Rhyolite – A town 5 miles west of Beatty in the Bullfrog Hills that was settled in 1904. In the Bullfrog Mining District. Named for rhyolite, the predominating rock in the district.
Rose’s Well
Round Mountain – A town in northwest Nye County on the west slope of the Toquima Range and a mining district in the town.
Royston
Rye Patch
San Antonio – A mining district discovered in 1863 and named for the Texas city.
San Carlos
San Juan
San Pedro
Sawmill
Shamrock
Silver Bend (Philadelphia that was a mining district within Belmont)
Silver Bow
Silver Glance
Silverton
South Bullfrog
Spanish Spring
Springdale
Springfield Mining District
Stargo
Stirling
Stone House
Stonewall
Sulphide
Summit Station
Sumo
Sunnyside – A town in northeast Nye County near the Lincoln County line in the White River Valley. Named for its physical features.
Tate’s Station
Telluride
Thorpe’s Well (Bonnie Claire)
Tolicha – A mining district on the north slopes of Tolicha Peak and Quartz Mountains. A Yokut tribal name.
Toiyabe City (Ophir)
Tonogold
Tonopah
Toyah
Transvaal
Trappman’s Camp
Troy
Twin River (Ophir)
Twin Springs
Tybo – A town on the west slope of the Hot Creek Range 40 miles southeast of Belmont. A mining district adjoining the Hot Creek District to the north was discovered in 1870 and the town was started in 1874. The word is Shoshone, meaning “white.”
Van Ness Mine
Wagner
Wahmonie
Warm Springs
Washington
Wellington
White Caps Mine
White Rock Spring
Willow Creek
Willow Springs
Wilson’s Camp

Adjacent Counties

Churchill County – northwest
Lander County – north
Eureka County – north
White Pine County – northeast
Lincoln County – east
Clark County – east
Esmeralda County – west
Mineral County – west
Inyo County, California – south

Area Size

Land 18,182 square miles
Water 17 square miles
Total 18,199 square miles

Accessibility

Interstate 11 (Future)
U.S. Route 6
U.S. Route 95
State Route 160
State Route 267
State Route 318
State Route 361
State Route 372
State Route 373
State Route 374
State Route 375
State Route 376
State Route 377
State Route 379
State Route 844

Click here to read about what safety items to pack for your next adventure. Also, check out how to remove cactus spines if you should encounter them.

The Population of Nye County Nevada

1800s: The population of Nye County, Nevada begins with the arrival of pioneers and prospectors drawn to the area in search of gold and silver during the Comstock Lode mining boom. The population is relatively small, consisting mainly of miners and their families.
1900s: The population of Nye County experienced significant growth with the expansion of mining activities and the establishment of various mining towns such as Tonopah and Round Mountain. These towns attract a large number of miners and support personnel, leading to a steady increase in the county’s population.
1930s: The population of Nye County faces a decline due to the Great Depression, as the mining industry suffers from reduced demand and closures. Many residents are forced to leave in search of employment elsewhere, causing a significant decrease in the county’s population.
1950s: The population of Nye County experienced another boom, primarily driven by the establishment of the Nevada Test Site (NTS) by the federal government. The NTS becomes a major employer, attracting scientists, military personnel, and support staff, leading to a surge in the county’s population.
1970s: Nye County’s population continues to grow, partly fueled by the rising popularity of Las Vegas as a tourist destination and the subsequent expansion of the city. Many people choose to settle in Nye County for its proximity to Las Vegas while offering a quieter, more rural lifestyle.
1990s: The population of Nye County witnesses steady growth as more people seek a change from the urban sprawl and congestion of larger cities. The county’s vast open spaces, natural beauty, and affordable housing options attract retirees, families, and individuals looking for a slower pace of life.
Present day: The population of Nye County remains stable, with a diverse mix of residents including miners, ranchers, retirees, and those who work in industries such as tourism, healthcare, and renewable energy. The county continues to be cherished for its natural wonders, including Death Valley National Park and the expansive Toiyabe National Forest, attracting visitors and new residents alike.