EXPERIENCE ELKO

Welcome to Elko, Nevada. Step into a land anchored by the Ruby Mountains, where wildflowers blanket Lamoille Canyon and Western heritage grew from railroad pioneers, Basque traditions, Native peoples, and cowboy poets. This is the West — working, welcoming, and full of unexpected adventures.

Get Your
Visitor’s Guide

Explore scenic drives, hiking trails, fishing holes, and more with our free digital guide.

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Elko
Mining Expo

Join us in the heart of Nevada’s gold country for the Elko Mining Expo, where industry leaders and cutting-edge technology connect to shape the future of mining.

Elko Mining Expo

Choose
Your Side

In Elko, tradition still rides, but there’s a new West in town. Pick your side in a story generations in the making, and choose your path forward.

Vote Now

THINGS TO DO

Here, the Old West meets new. From mountain hikes to downtown art walks, Elko adventures span the wild and cultural alike. With so many attractions to explore, you never know what you’ll discover.

DISCOVER THINGS TO DO

Our Great Outdoors

Lace up for the Ruby Crest Trail, cruise the Lamoille Canyon Scenic Byway, and find alpine lakes with wide-open views. Pick a family hike, cast a line, or chase waterfalls in Nevada’s snow-capped “Swiss Alps.”

See Outdoor Adventures

Upcoming Events

Time your visit for the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering, the National Basque Festival, or Nevada’s oldest rodeo, the Silver State Stampede. From national conventions like the Elko Mining Expo to the charms of the Lamoille County Fair, festivals, live music, and cultural traditions keep our calendar full year-round.

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Uncommon Activities

Uncover ghost towns, watch expert craftsmen forge silver spurs, or step into Nevada’s oldest running casino, circa 1869. From historic sites to lush golf courses and heli-skiing, Elko is full of surprises

Uncover the Uncommon

Elko’s Arts and Culture

Here, old stories meet new voices. Trace the Oregon Trail at the California Trail Interpretive Center, step into the past at the Northeastern Nevada Museum, and hear cowboy poetry at the Western Folklife Center. Stroll downtown to find the Centennial Boots and Elko’s mural walk woven through shops and cafés.

Explore Arts & Culture

Great Elko Eats

Dive into a family-style Basque feast, sip fine wine and spirits at a Gold Rush–era bar, or gather for a rancher’s steak dinner. From cozy cafés to fresh Mediterranean plates, Elko’s restaurants are a feast for the senses.

EXPLORE ELKO DINING

WHERE TO STAY

Stay close to the heart of historic downtown in brand-name hotels, or camp under the stars in RV parks and campgrounds. With Lamoille Canyon and Ruby Mountain trailheads nearby, adventure is right outside your door.

FIND LODGING

MEET IN ELKO

Elko knows how to host. Our Event Center and Conference Center was built for everything from mining expos to family banquets, with more than 30,000 square feet of flexible rooms. Add in walkable hotels, local dining, and Western hospitality, and you’ll see why planners keep coming back.

PLAN YOUR EVENT

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

WHEN IS LAMOILLE CANYON ROAD OPEN

The scenic byway is typically open spring through fall, with access depending on snow. Check current conditions before you go.

How far is Lamoille Canyon from Elko?

About 25 miles from downtown. Most trailheads are a 30- to 45-minute drive.

What’s the best season for Ruby hikes?

Summer and early fall offer the most access. Wildflowers peak mid-summer. Fall colors arrive soon after.

How do I get There?

Elko sits on I-80, with Amtrak service and the Elko Regional Airport (EKO). Driving is simple, and parking is free and abundant across town.