Did you know that one of the many ghost towns near Las Vegas is home to the largest known remains of Ichthyosaur?
Located in the little town of Berlin, the remains of this prehistoric marine reptile are a popular attraction for many road trippers; however, there are more to ghost towns than just dinosaurs.
What is a ghost town? Ghost towns are abandoned towns, villages, and cities that often contain a substantial amount of infrastructure including buildings, roads, water towers…etc.
Many of these towns still have operating saloons, mine tours, and other attractions to fill up your “ghost town road trip” itinerary.
Whether you’re planning a quick day trip or an in-depth journey through Nevada, these 7 ghost towns are sure to bring memories that you’ll cherish forever. Read on to learn more about some of Nevada’s most popular ghost towns and how to prep for the Nevada road trip.
1. Nelson
Previously known as El Dorado, the small town of Nelson was one of the largest boomtowns during the gold rush. Now it is a popular tourist destination and filming location for many movies including 3000 Miles to Graceland.
Inside, visitors can take tours through the notorious Techatticup mine, pose for pictures in front of old buildings, and even explore the remains of the city.
2. Virginia City
Virginia City was developed after the discovery of Comstock Lode, a major hub for silver ore that was mined and used to produce coinage in the United States.
Today, it’s a popular town for recreational ghost hunting, sightseeing, and shopping. With many boutiques positioned on its wooden walkways, visitors can easily grab gifts and memorabilia to take home.
3. St. Thomas
Originally mistaken by Mormon settlers to be a part of Utah, St. Thomas was a settlement that was completely flooded by Lake Mead after the finalization of the Hoover Dam.
This abandoned farming town once hosted 500 people that enjoyed the simple things in life like church, school, and soda pop. Today, visitors can travel the roads and trails that once made up this wild west town.
4. Gold Point
Originally settled by ranchers in the 1880s, the town didn’t become a major mining destination until the 1920s when gold was discovered by J.W. Dunfee. These days, the town hosts a few dozen people except during their Memorial Day Weekend Chili Cook-Off where the population will grow to around 400.
Apart from delicious chili, the town offers an authentic night out in a wild west tavern known as The Horn Silver Saloon. Here you can play pool, drink bourbon, and chat with the owners to learn more about its rich history.
5. Seven Troughs
Seven Troughs is a mining town that became flooded with people looking to “strike it rich” after gold was discovered in 1905. From 1908 to 1918, the area produced $2,000,000 in gold. Unfortunately, the luck ran out when a flash flood wiped out most of the town causing its inhabitants to abandon the mines.
Although most of the town was destroyed in the flood, visitors of the town can still view the ruins, old automobiles, and cabins that remain.
6. Berlin
Home to the largest known remains of the Ichthyosaur, Berlin is an old mining town known for its silver and gold production in the early 1900s. Visitors of Berlin can tour through the historically preserved mines or visit the Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park for camping, picnicking, and hiking.
7. Belmont
Originally established from a silver strike in 1865, Belmont grew after the discovery of other minerals like copper, antimony, and iron. However, by 1887, most of the mines had shut down.
These days, visitors can admire historic sites like the Monitor-Belmont Mill, whose chimney was used as target practice by pilots from the Tonopah Air Force Base during World War II. On top of historic site-seeing, tourists can stop to buy antiques and jewelry from the local shops or pop in for a drink at Dirty Dick’s Belmont Saloon.
Prepping for the Trip
Before embarking on your trip through Nevada’s ghost towns, it’s important to take to into consideration the variety of terrain you will drive through. Many of these locations are susceptible to snowfall, so it is important to read up on how to drive safely in the snow before venturing out to avoid disaster.
Another important safety precaution before taking off is to make sure you have good maintenance on your tires. Sometimes the excitement of a road trip will prevent you from remembering to have them serviced. Using an app subscription service like Treads will gently remind you to come in for maintenance, upkeep services, and other essential actions with your tires.
Additionally, you’ll want to verify that you have completed a checklist of essential tire safety steps. One of the worst things that can happen on a road trip is blowing a tire in the middle of nowhere, but by taking these precautions, you will have no problem getting to your destination.
Visiting Ghost Towns Near Las Vegas
When you’re traveling and looking for things to do, visiting some of the ghost towns near Las Vegas can be a great way to explore the rich history of the Silver State. Whether you’re interested in historical mining tours, seeing the fossils of an ancient marine reptile, or looking to wet your whistle at a true wild west watering hole, it is important to make sure your car is serviced and ready to go.
Always check your tire pressure, brakes, and oil before take off. If you want to always be travel-ready, signing up for a tire subscription service will allow you to make sure your car is always prepped for departure and can even help you with roadside assistance when things get tricky. For more information, contact one of our reps today.
