Elko Nevada is a city in the northeast part of the state along U.S. Route 80. Although it is a remote city, it is known for its gold mining and ranching. Tourism is popular in Elko, as this is a premiere destination for communing with the great outdoors. It is a city of less than 20,000 residents that is nonetheless the largest city in between Reno and Salt Lake City. Elko is served by the Elko Regional Airport and Amtrak also offers service twice a day on its California Zephyr bus. There are a number of Elko hotels, although many tourists visiting this part of Nevada opt for the full experience of staying on the ranch where they can both vacation and “work.”

The climate of Elko Nevada is classified as semi arid. It is a very dry area with less than ten inches of precipitation annually. The winters are cold and the summers are hot. January is typically the coldest month of the year with high temperatures in the 30s. It is not at all uncommon for high temperatures to range into the 90s and even 100s during the summer months of July and August.

One unforgettable experience available here is spending time on a true western ranch. The expansive ranches of Elko Nevada afford guests the perfect opportunity to immerse themselves in the culture of the American West. There are still real-life cowboys that work ranches on a daily basis. For some Americans, this represents the epitome of the American dream. There are an abundance of outdoor activities, from camping and hiking to horseback riding and biking.

Nevada Map

Not everyone may know that there are also a variety of other things to do in Elko besides just tending the ranch and enjoying the beauty of the outdoors. There are art galleries, a casino, restaurants, and tours of the city. The Western Folklife Center is among the top attractions in Elko, shedding light on the traditions and culture of the city. You only have to pick what appeals to you. There is something for everyone to enjoy in the city of Elko. Most of the dining calls upon the American Western theme and you will be able to enjoy everything from steaks and chops to salads and traditional Basque dishes.

The annual events schedule in Elko Nevada is also something to consider as you make your vacation plans. In January, the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering comes to town. It is a celebration of the American West, including its literature, photography, food, music, and much more. July hosts the National Basque Festival, a celebration of Basque culture and its influence on the town of Elko.

You should not have any problems finding a suitable hotel for you and your group in town. There are actually a good variety of budget motels as well as nice hotels. And, you always have the option of living the true cowboy’s life on the ranch. No matter where you end up choosing to stay, you are sure to appreciate the raw beauty of this city in northeastern Nevada. Be sure to bring the camera with you. There is a postcard waiting to happen around every corner.