A Four-Season Mountain Town
Sitting at Nevada’s eastern edge of the “Loneliest Road in America,” Ely is a remote mountain town where history, art and outdoor adventure thrive. Ely was founded in the 1870s as a stagecoach stop and trading post called Murray Station, but it would become one of the country’s major copper mining regions.
The Nevada Northern Railway arrived in 1906 . Now, this well preserved short-line railway draws visitors from all over the world to ride on its queens of steam and historic diesel engines.Murals, art galleries and a sculpture garden decorate the historic downtown. Rugged mountains rise up in all directions with amazing year-round recreation opportunities in places like Great Basin National Park, Cave Lake State Park, Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park and Ward Mountain Recreation Area.
Featured Event
White Pine County Fair & Horse Races
Aug. 16 – 18, 2024
A safe bet for a fabulously exciting time is the White Pine Horse Races in Ely, NV. This iconic event has been taking place since the 1920s and draws thousands of people from all over the country. Featuring exciting, live action racing of thoroughbreds and quarter horses; complete with pari-mutuel betting, bar, concessions and the County Fair.
Suggested Itineraries
Outdoors
The open spaces surrounding Ely are not lacking in ways to connect with nature. Our mountains offer too many adventures to fit into one trip. Here are some suggestions to make the most of your next visit.
History
Immerse yourself into Ely’s rich history. Each experience gives you a deeper connection to the town, its people and its significance to the state of Nevada and our country. Take a step back in time.
Arts & Culture
There is art everywhere in Ely. It’s hard not to be inspired by this much natural beauty. Here are some must-see art stops and events that celebrate our artistic and cultural heritage.