El Dorado Canyon Ghost Town in Nelson is a fantastic day trip from Las Vegas, Nevada

El Dorado Canyon Ghost Town is a fascinating historical mining town located in Nelson, Nevada, about 30 minutes from Boulder City and an hour from Las Vegas. The town was established in the late 1800s during the gold and silver mining boom in the area. The canyon was named after the legendary city of Gold, El Dorado, and was once home to a thriving mining community.

The town was built around the Techatticup Mine, which was the largest and most productive mine in the canyon. The mine produced over $30 million in gold and silver during its lifetime. The town was home to over 2,000 people at its peak, including miners, their families, and support staff.

The town had all the amenities of a small city, including a school, post office, and even a red-light district. The mine operated until the early 1940s, after which the town slowly declined and became a ghost town. Today, many buildings still remain, thanks to owners Tony and Bobbie Werly who purchased 50 acres in 1994 that included several mining claims, a store, a stamp mill, a bunkhouse, and a few miner cabins. Since then, the couple has been restoring the area, even opening up the Techatticup Mine for tours.

Visitors to El Dorado Canyon Ghost Town can explore the remains of the town and learn about its history. Guided tours are available, and visitors can also pan for gold in the creek that runs through the canyon. The town is also a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the scenic views of the canyon.

Despite its eerie ghost town ambiance, El Dorado Canyon Ghost Town is a popular destination for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The town’s rich history and natural beauty make it a unique destination that is well worth a visit and is just a short drive from Boulder City or Las Vegas.

It’s also a great place for photography, especially for those who love abandoned buildings, graffiti, and old mining equipment. There are hiking trails nearby, as well as down by the Colorado River (just a few miles south of El Dorado) that are fun and challenging, offer some great views of the surrounding area.

El Dorado Canyon Ghost Town is a great place to visit, not only to see the remains of the mining town but also to learn about the history of the area. The town’s history and natural beauty make it a unique destination that is well worth a visit. So, if you’re looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and explore the great outdoors, this is a great place to check out.

It is worth noting that the site is not overly maintained, so visitors should be aware of the potential dangers of loose rocks, obstacles and other hazards. The best way to explore the area is by joining a guided tour to gain full access the area. Tours include information on the town, exploration of the mine, underground caverns and underground boat rides. This is a place that takes visitors on a journey around one of the oldest and most famous gold mines in Southern Nevada.

If you’ve ever visited El Dorado Canyon Ghost Town in Nelson, Nevada, leave a comment and share your experience or favorite aspects. So, until next time, we’ll see ya on the road…