Reno, Nevada, known as ″The Biggest Little City in the World,″ is not only famous for its opulent casinos and neon lights but also for its rich history, which includes several nearby ghost towns․ These ghost towns offer a glimpse into the past and provide a unique experience for history enthusiasts and adventurers alike․ Here are some ghost towns near Reno worth exploring⁚
Hamilton and Treasure City Ghost Towns
Located approximately five hours outside of Reno, Hamilton and Treasure City are a power couple among ghost towns․ While reaching them may involve some dirt road driving, the experience is truly rewarding․ It is advisable to stay overnight in Ely, located another hour east, to make the most of your visit․ These ghost towns boast impressively intact structures, including historic homes, an old general store, bank buildings, stamp mill sites, and even a modern-day Sagebrush Saloon or two․
Seven Troughs and Gold Point Ghost Towns
Just a few hours’ drive beyond Reno, you will find Seven Troughs and Gold Point Ghost Towns․ These ghost towns offer well-preserved structures, giving visitors a glimpse into the past․ You can explore historic homes, an old general store, bank buildings, and even enjoy a drink at the modern-day Sagebrush Saloon․ These ghost towns are perfect for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure․
Galena Ghost Town
If you don’t want to venture too far from Reno, Galena Ghost Town is an excellent choice․ Located on the way home from Reno, this former town site from the 1860s is nestled in a beautiful housing development interspersed with the forest․ Despite its proximity to the freeway and shopping malls, Galena Ghost Town offers a captivating glimpse into history․
Belmont Ghost Town
Belmont Ghost Town, located in Nye County, is one of Nevada’s favorite ghost towns, known for its rich mining history․ Once a booming town with a population of 15,000, Belmont was a county seat and a hub of activity during its mining heyday․ Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved remnants of this former town and learn about its fascinating past․
Rhyolite Ghost Town
While Rhyolite Ghost Town is a bit farther from Reno, approximately 325 miles southeast٫ it is undoubtedly worth the trip․ Established in the early 20th century٫ Rhyolite thrived with the promise of mining riches․ It once had a stock exchange٫ Board of Trade٫ hotels٫ stores٫ and a school․ Although the Financial Panic of 1907 led to its decline٫ Rhyolite still offers a fascinating glimpse into Nevada’s mining history․
Nevada is home to over 600 ghost towns, offering endless opportunities for exploration․ Whether you are near Las Vegas, Reno, or anywhere in between, you can set your sights on a Nevada ghost town and embark on an unforgettable backroads adventure․ Don’t miss the chance to uncover the intriguing past of these abandoned towns․
Remember, when visiting ghost towns, it is essential to respect the historic sites, adhere to any posted regulations, and leave everything as you found it․ Enjoy your journey into Nevada’s ghostly past!