Top 5 Educational Experiences

Learning doesn’t just happen in the classroom.  In fact, many of the most memorable and impactful educational experiences are made out in the real world. White Pine County is here for you with the Top 5 Educational Experiences So Cool Your Kids Don’t Even Know They Are Learning! #VisitElyNevada #GetElevated

  1. White Pine Public Museum

While the museum showcases the history of White Pine County through the decades, they are also hosts to so much more. Kids can examine the toys, tools, clothing and pop culture of past generations. Over the centuries, there have been many inhabitants of this land we call the Great Basin. Early settlers, prospectors and herders only scratch the surface. The museum also includes Native Tribe artifacts, geology displays and other exhibits of Western history. Or go way back in time by peeking into the region’s prehistoric past with the museum’s one-of-a-kind Short Nosed Cave Bear exhibit.

  1. The Ely Mural Tour and Art Bank

Take in both art and history during a peaceful stroll through downtown Ely, which includes over 30 murals and public art pieces depicting the stories of White Pine County. Most of the murals were commissioned in the early 2000s and represent the richness of the town’s unique history. These paintings and their perspectives travel from the days of the Pony Express, through the age of communication, and all the way to modern times. To achieve the full Ely art experience, finish your tour at the Ely Art Bank, which contains a permanent collection of paintings, sculptures, photos and the best local art. The Art Bank itself is a masterpiece thanks to Art Among the Aspens — real aspen trees mounted to the walls and next door in an open air plaza with more public art displays, kids can have fun following the circular path of a labyrinth.

  1. Garnet Hill

Fun for the entire treasure-hunting family, this short drive from Ely gives visitors a hands-on mining and geology experience. Start by scanning the ground and nearby drainages for a dark maroon, red-to-black shine (garnets are very dark in color, which contrasts strongly with the local rock and soil). Then use a hammer and chisel to break open the rocks to reveal dark-colored garnets. As an added bonus, Garnet Hill offers remarkable views of the valley, including a look at the active, open-pit Robison Copper Mine.

  1. Great Basin National Park

Nevada’s only National Park offers limitless opportunities for adventure. Trek to Bristlecone Pines and examine the oldest living trees on earth. Pass by beautiful bodies of water and panoramic scenes that include Wheeler Peak, the highest point in all of White Pine County, and the unforgettable sight of Nevada’s only (and the United State’s southernmost) glacier. Explore the mysterious Lehman Caves, with guided tours highlighting the unique limestone formations. An astronomy lesson is also offered nightly, showcasing the most amazing night skies in the state. With a clear glimpse of the Milky Way and nothing but stars to see, it’s no wonder Great Basin National Park is a renowned dark sky destination. Truly, it’s an educational playground for all ages.

  1. Nevada Northern Railway

Science, technology and engineering come to life at the most impressive steam rail yard in the west. This complex is the best-preserved, least altered and most complete monument of the steam railroad era. While the railroad industry progressed into diesel, the East Ely yard escaped modernization because of its geographical remoteness and the decline of the mining industry it once served. It’s as if time put a lock on the Railway. Explore the vintage buildings, watch engines being repaired, hold the tools, ride the train, and even drive the steam engine yourself! In addition to regularly scheduled trains there are many unique and educational-themed rides structured around Western history, geology and astronomy.