Techatticup Mine Eldorado Canyon Nelson Ghost Town
Explore a historic gold mine and Wild West settlement, filled with vintage cars, relics, and stunning desert scenery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Techatticup Mine Eldorado Canyon Nelson Ghost Town
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a historic gold mine and Wild West settlement, filled with vintage cars, relics, and stunning desert scenery.
"Absolutely loved visiting Nelson Ghost Town! It's such a unique and fascinating place with so much history and character."
Check in First! :wave:
Always visit the general store upon arrival. The owners are friendly and provide essential info & access.
Hydrate! :water_pistol:
The desert heat is intense. Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Techatticup Mine Tour
General Store
Descend into the oldest and richest gold mine in Southern Nevada, operational from 1861-1942.
Vintage Car Collection
Throughout the town
Explore a fascinating collection of antique cars, trucks, and even a military truck, adding to the Wild West atmosphere.
Restored Buildings & Relics
Main Street
Wander through buildings filled with retro signs, old photos, and eclectic antiques that tell the story of this lawless settlement.
Sunset Views
Overlooking the canyon
The desert landscape offers stunning sunset vistas, making it a magical time for photography and reflection.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respect the Owners & the History
Beat the Desert Heat
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check in First! :wave:
Always visit the general store upon arrival. The owners are friendly and provide essential info & access.
Hydrate! :water_pistol:
The desert heat is intense. Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll be walking on dusty, uneven terrain. Sturdy footwear is a must for exploring.
Photographer's Paradise :camera_with_flash:
This town is packed with unique backdrops and vintage items, perfect for stunning photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check in First! :wave:
Always visit the general store upon arrival. The owners are friendly and provide essential info & access.
Hydrate! :water_pistol:
The desert heat is intense. Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll be walking on dusty, uneven terrain. Sturdy footwear is a must for exploring.
Photographer's Paradise :camera_with_flash:
This town is packed with unique backdrops and vintage items, perfect for stunning photos.
Allow Ample Time :clock1:
Don't rush! You'll want several hours to explore the town, the store, and take the mine tour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Nelson Ghost Town's unique historical charm, eclectic collection of vintage cars and relics, and the friendly hospitality of the owners. It's considered a photographer's dream and a fascinating glimpse into the Wild West, though the desert heat requires preparation.
"Stop by the general store 1st! The owner will greet you, ask your intentions and give you important info about visiting. 😉 Worth the drive to see the history here; eclectic and somewhat ominous really. Drive 5 miles further to beautiful Lake Mead."
Danyelle Warner
"Absolutely loved visiting Nelson Ghost Town! It’s such a unique and fascinating place with so much history and character. Walking around felt like stepping back in time—old buildings, vintage cars, and tons of interesting antiques and photo spots everywhere. The staff was super friendly and shared great stories about the town’s past. It’s a photographer’s dream and a fun little adventure just outside Las Vegas. Highly recommend stopping by if you love hidden gems, quirky spots, and a glimpse of the Old West!"
Vladyslava Havriushenko
"I don't know where to start, from the hospitality to the amazing town, then the mine itself. Make sure you have at least a few hours to stop in explore take photos, then you have to do the mine tour! There's so many cool and antique things to see it's crazy. I've never seen such a collection in one place. From inside the store where you have to stop and look in every direction, even the ceiling. The town itself has so many cool buildings and vehicles. I just can't say enough good things about this place. Take lots of water it's so hot. You definitely need to go here whether you're a photographer, a mine enthusiast or just like old and unique things. There's literally something here everyone will love. Im already looking forward to planning a return trip. GO ITS SO WORTH IT"
Kim Crowley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nelson Ghost Town is conveniently located about 45 minutes to an hour southeast of Las Vegas, making it a popular day trip destination. +1
The most common way to reach Nelson Ghost Town is by car. Renting a car from Las Vegas is recommended for flexibility. The drive itself is scenic, passing through desert landscapes.
Public transportation options are very limited to non-existent for reaching Nelson Ghost Town. A personal vehicle or a guided tour is generally required.
Yes, the drive offers beautiful desert scenery and is part of the overall experience. Some travelers suggest combining it with a route past Lake Mead and Hoover Dam.
Many visitors drive from Las Vegas via US-93 S, then take the exit for NV-165 E towards Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Some suggest a longer, scenic route via Lake Mead and Hoover Dam.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Nelson Ghost Town is privately owned. There's a small entrance fee, typically around $1 per person, to explore the town for more than 15 minutes. Always check in at the general store first.
Operating hours can vary, but it's generally open during daylight hours. It's best to check their social media or call ahead, especially if you plan to take a mine tour.
While a general entrance fee applies, professional photographers or those planning extensive photoshoots may need to arrange for a specific photo permit with the owners.
Mine tours are often offered on-site and depend on availability. It's advisable to inquire about tour times and availability when you check in at the general store.
The entrance fee typically grants you access to wander around the town, explore the exteriors of the buildings, and view the vintage car collection.
📸 📸 Photography & Filming
Absolutely! Nelson Ghost Town is a photographer's dream, filled with vintage cars, old buildings, unique relics, and dramatic desert landscapes. It's a popular spot for photoshoots.
General photography for personal use is usually permitted. However, for commercial shoots or extensive professional photography, it's essential to contact the owners and obtain permission or a permit.
The 'golden hour' just before sunset offers beautiful, soft light that enhances the desert scenery and the rustic charm of the town. Early mornings are also great to avoid crowds and harsh light. +1
Similar to photography, filming for personal use is generally allowed. For commercial filming or extensive video projects, inquire with the owners about permits and fees. +1
Look for opportunities with the vintage cars, the general store's eclectic interior, the mine entrance, and the vast desert vistas. The entire town is a unique backdrop.
🎫 💍 Weddings & Events
Yes, Nelson Ghost Town is a popular and unique venue for weddings and elopements, offering a rustic Wild West backdrop.
Various packages are offered, often including photography, officiant services, and sometimes videography, tailored for elopements and small ceremonies.
Contact the wedding planners or directly inquire with the town's management for availability and booking details. Limited availability is common.
Its historic charm, unique setting, and stunning desert scenery provide an unforgettable and picturesque atmosphere for a special day.
The town features rustic chapels and outdoor areas that are perfect for ceremonies, offering a truly authentic ghost town experience.
🎫 🚗 Exploring the Area
Nearby attractions include Lake Mead, Hoover Dam, and the scenic Valley of Fire State Park, making it part of a larger road trip itinerary.
While the town itself is the main attraction, the surrounding desert offers opportunities for scenic drives. Be cautious and prepared if venturing off main roads.
While not directly within the ghost town, the proximity to Lake Mead and the surrounding desert areas means hiking opportunities exist, though specific trails require research.
Some visitors have reported finding natural caverns or 'holes' in the surrounding mountains, adding an element of adventure and mystery to the area.
Stick to marked roads and be aware of desert conditions. The main road to Nelson Ghost Town is well-maintained, but off-road exploration requires caution and preparation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Bring plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are limited. Ensure kids wear comfortable shoes for exploring the dusty grounds. Keep a close eye on them, as the terrain can be uneven, and some areas might have historical artifacts that should not be touched. The mine tour can be particularly interesting for older children, but check age recommendations.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Pro-tips for photographers: Always check in with the owners first, as they are the stewards of this historic site and may have specific guidelines or photo permits for commercial work. The golden hour light is magical here, so plan your visit accordingly. Don't miss the eclectic interior of the general store for detailed shots.
💍 Couples & Honeymooners
Consider visiting during the late afternoon for stunning sunset views, which are perfect for romantic photos. The town's history and preserved relics provide plenty of conversation starters and shared discoveries. It's also a popular, albeit unconventional, spot for elopements and engagement photos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Techatticup Mine and Nelson
The town's fortunes ebbed and flowed with the mining industry. Over the decades, it saw periods of intense activity followed by decline. The unique collection of buildings and artifacts you see today are a testament to its past, meticulously preserved by the current owners. The general store, in particular, is a treasure trove of historical items, from vintage signs to personal mementos, offering a tangible connection to the lives of those who lived and worked here.
Beyond its mining past, Nelson has also served as a popular filming location for movies and television shows, drawn to its authentic, preserved Wild West aesthetic. This has further cemented its status as a unique destination that offers a glimpse into a bygone era, blending history, adventure, and striking desert beauty.
Photography and Content Creation Hotspot
The restored buildings, adorned with antique signs and weathered facades, create a perfect backdrop for portraits and thematic shots. The eclectic mix of relics and memorabilia inside the general store offers endless opportunities for detail shots and capturing the essence of a bygone era. Many creators highlight the town's unique character, using it for fashion shoots, elopement photography, and general travel vlogs.
For the best photographic results, aim for the golden hour – the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset. The warm, soft light dramatically enhances the desert landscape and the textures of the old structures. Remember to always respect the property and inquire about any specific photography permits if you plan a professional shoot.
Weddings and Elopements in a Unique Setting
Several local vendors specialize in Nelson Ghost Town wedding packages, often including photography, officiant services, and sometimes videography. These packages are designed to capture the magic of saying 'I do' amidst the historic buildings and dramatic desert scenery. The town's picturesque setting ensures unforgettable photos and a deeply personal ceremony.
Booking in advance is highly recommended due to limited availability. Couples are drawn to the town's authentic character, the opportunity for unique photos with vintage cars and historic structures, and the overall adventurous spirit it embodies for their special day.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit