Ely, Nevada, often overlooked by travelers rushing through the Silver State, is a hidden treasure waiting to be explored. Known as the gateway to Great Basin National Park, Ely is more than just a stop on Highway 50 — it’s a destination filled with history, natural beauty, and small-town charm. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history lover, or someone seeking solitude in the wide-open spaces of Nevada, Ely offers an unforgettable experience.
In this article, we’ll take you through the vibrant past and present of Ely, its connection to Great Basin National Park, and all the amazing things you can do while visiting this fascinating town.
Where Is Ely, Nevada?
Ely is located in White Pine County in eastern Nevada. Sitting at an elevation of over 6,400 feet, it offers a cool, dry climate that contrasts with the hot deserts found in southern Nevada. It’s surrounded by the towering mountains of the Egan, Schell Creek, and Snake ranges, making it a perfect base for exploring the scenic outdoors.
Ely sits along U.S. Route 50, famously called “The Loneliest Road in America.” But don’t let that name fool you — the area is rich in natural and cultural experiences.
Ely Nevada: Gateway to Great Basin National Park
When we say Ely is the gateway to Great Basin National Park, we mean it literally and figuratively. Located just over an hour’s drive away, Ely is the closest major town to the park and serves as the perfect jumping-off point for adventurers.
Great Basin National Park is one of the least visited national parks in the U.S., but that’s what makes it so special. It offers:
- Stargazing like nowhere else – Thanks to its remote location, the park has some of the darkest skies in the country
- Lehman Caves – A stunning underground world filled with rare cave formations
- Wheeler Peak – A majestic mountain over 13,000 feet high, with alpine lakes and ancient bristlecone pines
Visitors can find comfortable lodging, restaurants, gas stations, and cultural attractions in Ely before heading into the more rugged wilderness of the Great Basin.
A Town Rooted in History
Mining Roots
Ely started as a stagecoach stop in the 1870s, but it boomed in the early 1900s when copper was discovered nearby. For decades, the mining industry was the town’s heartbeat. Remnants of this era are still visible in the town’s architecture and museums.
Nevada Northern Railway
One of the top attractions in Ely is the Nevada Northern Railway Museum, a living piece of history where visitors can ride original steam locomotives on the same tracks used during the mining boom. It’s a hands-on, unforgettable way to experience the past.
Things to Do in Ely, Nevada
Here are some top things to do when visiting Ely, especially if you’re planning to explore the Great Basin National Park:
Ride the Ghost Train
This isn’t just a train ride — it’s a journey into Nevada’s past. The Ghost Train of Old Ely offers seasonal rides, including haunted train events, night rides, and even the chance to operate a real locomotive for a day.
Check Out the Ely Art Murals
Take a self-guided walking tour through downtown Ely to view the incredible Ely Renaissance murals. These large wall paintings tell the story of Ely’s diverse culture and industries, from Native American heritage to mining and railroading.
Step Back in Time at the White Pine Public Museum
This museum is a must-visit for history buffs. It features Native American artifacts, mining tools, antique cars, and even a reconstructed 19th-century schoolhouse.
Explore Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park
Just 20 minutes south of Ely, this state park features six large beehive-shaped ovens used in the 1870s to produce charcoal. The park is also a great spot for hiking and picnicking.
Visit Garnet Hill
If you’re into rockhounding, Garnet Hill is a fun place to visit. Just a few miles west of Ely, it’s one of the only public places in the U.S. where you can dig and keep your own garnets.
Why Ely Is Perfect for Outdoor Lovers
Ely offers year-round outdoor fun. From mountain biking in summer to snowshoeing in winter, there’s no shortage of activities.
- Hiking and Biking: The nearby trails in the Schell Creek Range and Ward Mountain offer scenic beauty without the crowds
- Fishing and Boating: Cave Lake State Park, about 20 minutes away, is perfect for fishing, kayaking, and relaxing by the water
- Camping: With several campgrounds in and around Ely, including ones in Great Basin National Park, it’s easy to sleep under the stars
- Wildlife Watching: The high desert landscape is home to deer, elk, eagles, and sometimes even wild horses
Food and Lodging in Ely
For a small town, Ely has a surprisingly diverse range of food and lodging options. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly motel, a charming bed-and-breakfast, or a full-service hotel with casino games, Ely has you covered.
Recommended Restaurants
- Cell Block Steakhouse – Located inside a former jail, this restaurant offers hearty steaks and a quirky ambiance
- Silver State Restaurant – A local favorite for breakfast and classic American dishes
- Racks Bar and Grill – Great for casual eats and local brews
When to Visit Ely, Nevada
Each season in Ely offers something different:
- Spring: Wildflowers begin to bloom, and the weather is cool and comfortable
- Summer: Perfect for hiking, camping, and exploring Great Basin National Park
- Fall: The changing leaves in the surrounding mountains are stunning
- Winter: Snow covers the mountains, and you can enjoy winter sports in peace and quiet
Tips for Visiting Ely and Great Basin National Park
- Plan Ahead: While Ely has supplies and lodging, amenities are limited in and around the park
- Fuel Up: Fill your gas tank in Ely before heading into the national park or remote areas
- Dress in Layers: Even in summer, it can get chilly at high elevations like Wheeler Peak
- Bring Binoculars: For wildlife viewing and stargazing
- Respect Nature: The ecosystems here are delicate. Stick to trails and leave no trace
Ely’s Future as a Travel Destination
With increasing interest in sustainable and off-the-beaten-path tourism, Ely is becoming a top destination for travelers looking for authentic experiences. The town continues to preserve its heritage while embracing its role as a hub for outdoor recreation.
Efforts are underway to enhance tourism through festivals, guided tours, and improved trail networks. Events like the Ely Film Festival, Train Robbery Reenactments, and Fire and Ice Winter Festival are helping put Ely on the map.
Final Thoughts
Ely, Nevada may be small in size, but it’s big on experiences. As the gateway to Great Basin National Park, Ely invites travelers to slow down, take a breath of fresh mountain air, and connect with the raw beauty of the American West. Whether you’re chasing stars in the dark skies, digging for garnets, riding a steam locomotive, or hiking through ancient forests, Ely promises a journey you’ll never forget.
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