Nevada City Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and tips for your trip to Nevada City in Montana, USA.


Introduction to Nevada City

Nevada City is a charming town located in Gold West Country, Montana, USA. It’s recognized for its rich history, natural beauty, and opportunities for outdoor adventures. The town dates back to the 1860s gold rush, and most of the original buildings have been preserved, including several museums and historical attractions.

Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or friends, Nevada City offers a mix of fun-filled activities, unique experiences, and a glimpse into the local cultural heritage.

List of Places to Visit in Nevada City

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Nevada City Museum: The museum showcases various exhibits and collections depicting the town’s rich history, including pioneer artifacts, antique vehicles, and old photographs. Visitors can also explore the historic buildings, such as the school, blacksmith shop, and assay office.
  • Montana Heritage Commission: The commission manages several other historical sites in the area, such as the Virginia City National Historic Landmark and the Red Lodge Visitor Center and Museum.
  • Nevada City Presbyterian Church: This historic church, built-in 1866, is a noteworthy attraction and offers visitors a glimpse into the local religious culture.

Natural Attractions of Nevada City: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bannack State Park: Bannack is a deserted and well-preserved ghost town, located 30 minutes away from Nevada City. Visitors can explore several historic buildings, hike, bike, picnic, and even pan for gold in the creek.
  • Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park: The park has the largest known limestone caverns in the northwest region and offers guided tours, camping, and hiking trails.
  • Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest: Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate exploring over 3 million acres of wilderness, traversing rugged mountains, and enjoying wildlife viewing, fishing, hiking, and camping.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nevada City

  • Alder Gulch Short Line Trail: This 4.2-mile trail is ideal for nature lovers and hikers of all levels. It showcases the beautiful flora and fauna of the area while passing through breathtaking views of the town and the surrounding mountains.
  • Raiders Ridge Trail: This moderate 5-mile singletrack mountain bike trail is one of the area’s best. It winds through lush forest, rocky outcroppings, and offers panoramic views.

Best Things to Do in Nevada City: Activities and Tours

  • Nevada City Living History Weekend: This annual event is held in August and showcases the town’s rich history through reenactments, live performances, and period costumes.
  • Musical Entertainment in the Park: Catch live music at the Nevada City Music Hall during the summer months or enjoy an outdoor concert at the Red Ants Pants Music Festival, which features emerging artists and Grammy-winning performers.
  • Bannack Days: The event is held annually between the second and third Sunday in July and showcases the rich history of Montana’s first territorial capital with live performances, food, and family-friendly activities.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nevada City

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Nevada City Museum
Day 2 Hike Alder Gulch Short Line Trail
Day 3 Visit Montana Heritage Commission, take a guided tour of Virginia City
Day 4 Go on a scenic drive and picnic in Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest
Day 5 Discover the Lewis and Clark Caverns and stay overnight at Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park
Day 6 Take a bike ride on the Raiders Ridge Trail
Day 7 Attend the Red Ants Pants Music Festival

Food and Drink Scene of Nevada City

Must-Try Dishes

  • Huckleberry Pancakes: Huckleberries are a unique local delicacy, and the pancakes at the Nevada City Café are a breakfast must-try.
  • Buffalo Burger: Many local establishments serve buffalo meat, and the burger at the Bale of Hay Saloon is a hot item.
  • Rocky Mountain Oysters: This unique dish features deep-fried bull testicles and is a popular item at the Star Theater Café.

Local Beverages

  • Montana Huckleberry Beer: Pair your meal with one of the many local breweries’ flagship huckleberry beers, such as Madison River Brewing Company’s Salmon Fly Honey Rye.
  • Montana Wines: Explore the region’s vineyards and wineries, such as Ruby Valley Winery, and taste their unique Montana wines.

Where to Stay in Nevada City: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Sacajawea Hotel in Three Forks, Montana, offers a luxury experience with its elegant rooms, fine dining, and spa services.
  • Virginia City Inn is a cozy and rustic inn that offers comfortable rooms with an old-western charm.
  • Canyon Ferry Mansion in Helena, Montana, is a historic 27-room mansion that offers its guests a luxurious stay.

What to Buy in Nevada City: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Huckleberry Jam and Syrup: Huckleberries are a local favorite and are commonly made into jams, syrups, and other sweets.
  • Handmade Crafts and Jewelry: Explore the local shops’ unique offerings to find a special and authentic souvenir.
  • Antiques and Collectibles: Nevada City has several shops that cater to antique hunters and collectors.

Local Culture and Customs of Nevada City

Nevada City has a rich history and maintains its unique western frontier culture. Visitors are encouraged to respect the local heritage and participate in local customs, such as attending a cowboy poetry gathering or square dance.

Best Time to Visit Nevada City

The best time to visit Nevada City is during the summer months of June through August, when the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy outdoor concerts, festivals, and exploring the natural attractions. The winter months are also a beautiful time to visit, with snow-capped mountains and a cozy holiday atmosphere.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nevada City

Do:

  • Respect the local history and culture.
  • Engage in outdoor activities and explore the natural surroundings.
  • Attend local events and festivals throughout the year.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the local environment.
  • Disrespect the local culture and heritage.
  • Ignore safety guidelines while engaging in outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Nevada City

Nevada City is a relatively safe destination, and visitors are encouraged to take standard safety precautions. It’s essential to be prepared for outdoor adventures and to follow safety guidelines while hiking, biking, and engaging in other activities.

Health in Nevada City

Visitors should take standard health precautions while on their trip to Nevada City. It’s essential to stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and be prepared for changes in weather conditions.

Getting to Nevada City: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Nevada City

  • Bert Mooney Airport in Butte, Montana, is the closest airport, located about an hour away from Nevada City.
  • Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport is the second closest airport, located about two and a half hours away.

Bus Stations Near Nevada City

  • Jefferson Lines operates a bus service to nearby cities, such as Butte and Bozeman.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Renting a car is a convenient option for exploring the area and can be done at any of the nearby airports or cities.
  • Rideshare Services: Uber and Lyft are available in the area but may have limited availability.

How to Get Around in Nevada City

The best way to explore Nevada City is on foot or by bike. Many attractions and activities are within walking distance of each other, and the town has several bike-friendly routes and trails.

Where to Go Next from Nevada City: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Yellowstone National Park: Yellowstone is located about three and a half hours away from Nevada City and offers a world-famous destination with geysers, wildlife, and natural beauty.
  • Glacier National Park: Glacier is located about four hours away from Nevada City and offers stunning vistas, rugged hikes, and crystal-clear lakes.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or just looking for a unique experience, Nevada City offers a mix of fun-filled activities, breathtaking natural beauty, and a glimpse into the local heritage. Discover Nevada City, one of Montana’s best-preserved gems, and create unforgettable memories.