Nevada is one of the few places in the country where it seems like the Wild West never really died. Our state contains a plethora of towns that are still very much connected to their western roots. The town featured here may just be the most authentic “cowboy town” in existence. It acknowledges and thrives off of its heritage in a truly unique way. This place would make an awesome destination for your next day trip or weekend getaway. It may look like any old western town, but there’s a lot more to this place than meets the eye.
Located along the Humboldt River in northern Nevada, the quaint town of Elko calls itself "The Heart of Northeast Nevada". There's no denying that this town has a lot of heart. It has to be one of the most interesting places in the state.
The town retains a uniquely western atmosphere. It's easy to come across cowboy mural on the sides of buildings or other cowboy-related street art. Elko is a town that is strongly connected to its past.
The town was first established in 1868 and made itself known as a center for ranching, mining, and rail freight industries. To this day, the town heavily relies on the mining industry. The town's economy is one of the few in the nation that still relies on gold mining.
Surrounded completely by a harsh desert landscape, Elko struggles whenever the price of gold declines. However, even during these times the town still maintains an optimistic atmosphere. In fact, many of their cultural events and attractions has made tourism the second largest industry for them.
Elko is home to the California Trail Interpretive Center. The center allows visitors to truly experience what life was like for early Americans during the 19th century. The center contains life-like exhibits that are utterly fascinating.
You'll also find the Western Folklife Center right here in Elko. Located in the old Pioneer Hotel, this nonprofit organization is dedicated to expanding knowledge about the people who lived and worked in the American West.
Don't forget to stop at the Star Hotel for some of the most deliciously authentic Basque food you'll ever have. The food is a staple of the 19th century, when Basque sheepherders settled right here in Elko. Our state is one of the few places in the country where you can indulge in mouthwatering Basque dishes like this.
One of Elko's largest annual events is the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering. This festival has taken place for the last 33 years! It's an epic week-long event featuring poetry, music, stories, and food from the American West.
