QUALITY OF LIFE
Cultural Organizations and Recreation
Western Folklife Center
Located in the historic Pioneer Hotel in downtown Elko, the center is dedicated to preserving the rich culture and spirit of the American West. Headquarters for the world re-known Cowboy Poetry Gathering, the center is the site of year-round entertainment and activities, including concerts, music hours, workshops and educational programs for children. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. The center is closed on Sunday and Monday.
Northeastern Nevada Museum
Constructed in 1967, the award-winning museum offers visitors a look into the rich history of the region. The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free.
Elko Convention Center and Visitors Authority
Provides comfortable meeting and banquet facilities, as well as professional support staff.
Pony Express Cabin
One of the few remaining Pony Express cabins that was used by riders between 1860 and 1861. The building is listed in the National Historic Register and was used as the model for a duplicate at the Pony Express Museum in St. Joseph, Missouri.
Elko Railroad Park
Railroad Park is the site of demonstrations, summer storytelling, music festivals and other activities commemorating the role Elko played in the rail history of our nation.
Sherman Station
Sherman Station contains the main ranch house and outbuildings of the Walther homestead, which consisted of 600 acres in 1875 and served as a stage stop on the old Hill Beachey toll road between Elko and Hamilton. The buildings that comprise Sherman Station include the main ranch house, one-room school house, creamery, blacksmith's shop, and the barns that housed the stage teams and coaches.
Gold Mine Tours
Two of the largest gold mines in the world, Barrick Goldstrike Mines Inc. & Newmont Gold Company, offer public tours during the spring and summer months.
Summit Raceway
Just one mile outside of Elko, it is the site of weekly stock car races during the summer months.
Spring Creek Horse Palace
Resting in the foothills of the Ruby Mountains just 17 miles southeast of Elko, the Horse Palace boasts an indoor arena where rodeos, horse shows and concerts take place year round.
Lamoille Canyon
Sometimes referred to as the "Yosemite of Nevada," the canyon was heavily carved by glacial activity. A four-stop self guided auto tour with geology interpretive exhibits leads visitors past meadows full of wildflowers, abundant wildlife, waterfalls, and avalanche chutes. Nature trails and picnic grounds are available.
Tuscarora
A trip to Tuscarora provides visitors with a nostalgic journey back in time. During its peak mining period in 1878, there were 30,000 people living in Tuscarora. Today there are a handful of residents in this almost ghost town, including renowned potter Dennis Parks, who operates the famous Tuscarora Pottery School. Points of interest include the cemetery, historic buildings, a small museum, and the pottery school and gallery which attracts students from around the world.
Ruby Mountains
Reached via the Lamoille Canyon National Scenic Byway, 26 miles southeast of Elko on State Route 227, the Ruby Mountains are described by many as one of America's most beautiful mountain ranges, the Ruby Mountains offer endless miles of hiking trails along rushing waterfalls and fields of blazing wildflowers.
Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge
The Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge provides visitors with outstanding wildlife observation in a tranquil natural setting. Recreational opportunities include bird watching, photography, hunting, fishing, boating and nearby camping.
Wildhorse State Recreation Area
Wildhorse Recreation Area is comprised of more than 120 acres of outdoor fun and adventure. Boating, fishing, camping, picnicking, hunting, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and an annual ice-fishing derby round out the endless recreational options. The area can be reached 67 miles north of Elko on State Route 225.
South Fork State Recreation Area
Located 16 miles southwest of Elko following State Routes 227 and 228. South Fork is a favorite among locals for all water sports, including boating, water-skiing, and fishing. Camping is available in developed sites.
Ruby View Golf Course
Majestic 18-hole "grand ol' man" of Elko has the look and feel of an exclusive country club - at public course prices.
Spring Creek Golf Course
A privately-owned 6,258-yard par 72 course set at the base of the Ruby Mountains. Much like a British links course, accuracy is at a premium.
Fishing
The Elko area contains the most fishable streams and stocked reservoirs in Nevada. Most waters contain trout, but largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie and catfish are also plentiful.
Hunting
Elko County is a hunter's paradise. The majority of the State's mule deer and sage grouse are harvested within the county. The area is well known for chukar and Hungarian Partridge. Other big game animals include pronghorn antelope, elk, and California and Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep.
Mountain Biking
There are a variety of mountain trails to choose from for every skill level from novice to the experienced rider looking for a challenge.
Off Highway Vehicle Traveling
The majority of Elko County is classified as "open" to off-road vehicle use. Opportunities vary from well maintained gravel roads to hundreds of miles of primitive, back country "two-tracks." visitors are encouraged to follow the "Tread Lightly" guidelines.
Source: Elko Convention Center and Visitors Authority
Libraries
There are two libraries in Elko County, both are located in Elko.
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