Goldfield Travel Guide

Discover the top things to do, eat, and see in beautiful Goldfield, Nevada with this comprehensive travel guide.


Goldfield, Nevada is a charming town located in Southern Nevada. Known for its history and picturesque natural scenery, Goldfield is a must-visit destination for any traveler. In this comprehensive tour guide, we explore the top attractions, best things to do, and local culture of Goldfield.

Introduction to Goldfield

Goldfield was once a booming gold-mining town in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Today, it is a small town with a population of just under 300 residents. However, it still retains much of its historic charm and is a popular destination for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

List of Places to Visit in Goldfield

Goldfield is full of historic sites, natural beauty, and outdoor activities. Here are the top places to visit in Goldfield:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Goldfield Historic District: This historic district is home to many well-preserved buildings from the turn of the 20th century, including the Esmeralda County Courthouse and the Goldfield Hotel.
  • International Car Forest of the Last Church: This unique art installation features cars that have been buried vertically in the ground and painted with graffiti. It’s a must-visit for any art lover or photographer.
  • Goldfield Museum: This museum tells the story of the town’s history and is home to many artifacts from the gold-mining era.

Natural Attractions of Goldfield: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Grapevine Canyon: This scenic canyon is perfect for hiking, wildlife viewing, and birdwatching.
  • Goldfield Sand Dunes: These sand dunes offer a unique terrain for hiking and off-road vehicle exploration.
  • Esmeralda County Park: This park is a great spot for picnicking, fishing, and hiking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Goldfield

Goldfield is surrounded by stunning natural beauty and offers many hiking and biking routes to explore. Here are some of the best:

  • Grapevine Canyon Trail: This 2.5-mile hike takes you through a beautiful canyon and offers stunning views of the surrounding scenery.
  • Goldfield Sand Dunes Trail: This trail is great for hiking or mountain biking and offers plenty of sandy terrain to explore.
  • Hilltop Trail Loop: This 4-mile loop offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and is great for hiking or mountain biking.

Best Things to Do in Goldfield: Activities and Tours

Goldfield offers a variety of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the best:

  • Ghost Town Tours: Learn about the town’s history and explore abandoned buildings on a guided tour.
  • Off-Road Adventures: Take an off-road vehicle tour of the surrounding desert terrain.
  • Stargazing: Goldfield is known for its clear night skies, making it the perfect spot for stargazing and astrophotography.

Week-Long Itinerary for Goldfield

Here’s a suggested week-long itinerary for exploring Goldfield:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Goldfield Historic District and Goldfield Museum
2 Explore Grapevine Canyon and the Goldfield Sand Dunes
3 Take an off-road vehicle tour or go stargazing
4 Hike the Hilltop Trail Loop or another nearby trail
5 Visit the International Car Forest of the Last Church
6 Explore the Esmeralda County Park
7 Relax and enjoy the local food and drink scene

Food and Drink Scene of Goldfield

Goldfield may be a small town, but it still offers some fantastic options for food and drink. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Goldfield Chili: This hearty chili is made with tender chunks of beef in a spicy tomato sauce.
  • Pancakes: The pancakes in Goldfield are fluffy, light, and often served with local honey or jam.
  • Pie: Goldfield is known for its delicious homemade pies, which come in a variety of flavors.

Local Beverages

  • Goldfield Whiskey: This smooth whiskey is made with locally sourced ingredients.
  • Desert Sage Tea: This tea is made with local desert sage and is said to have healing properties.
  • Coffee: Goldfield has a few cozy coffee shops where you can enjoy a hot cup of joe.

Where to Stay in Goldfield: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

While Goldfield may not have a lot of options for lodging, there are still some great choices for travelers. Here are some of the best:

  • Goldfield Hotel: This historic hotel has recently been renovated and is a popular spot for ghost hunters.
  • Santa Fe Motel & Saloon: This quirky motel and saloon offers clean, comfortable rooms and live music on the weekends.
  • Goldfield RV Park: This RV park offers affordable rates and is located close to many of the town’s attractions.

What to Buy in Goldfield: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Goldfield offers a few unique souvenirs and local products that make great gifts. Here are some of the best:

  • Goldfield T-Shirts: Show off your love for Goldfield with a stylish and comfortable t-shirt.
  • Honey: Goldfield is known for its delicious local honey, which makes a great gift for foodies.
  • Goldfield Art: Local artists sell their work in the town’s shops and galleries, offering a unique souvenir to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Goldfield

Goldfield is a laid-back town with a friendly and welcoming community. The town has deep roots in mining and ranching, and these industries still influence local culture and customs.

Best Time to Visit Goldfield

The best time to visit Goldfield is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer can be very hot and dry, while winter can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Goldfield

Do:

  • Do take a guided ghost town tour to learn about the town’s history.
  • Do explore the town’s natural beauty on foot or by off-road vehicle.
  • Do try the local food and drink scene.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter. The natural beauty of Goldfield should be preserved for future visitors.
  • Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and plenty of water during outdoor activities.
  • Don’t trespass on private property.

Safety and Health

Safety in Goldfield

Goldfield is a safe town to visit, but visitors should always use common sense and take safety precautions. Remember to lock your car and keep valuables out of sight. When hiking or exploring off-road, always bring a map and plenty of water.

Health in Goldfield

Visitors to Goldfield should be aware of the high altitude and potential for dehydration. It’s important to drink plenty of water and take breaks when hiking or exploring.

Getting to Goldfield: Transportation Options and Logistics

Goldfield is easily accessible by car, and there are a few transportation options for visitors. Here’s what you need to know:

Airports Near Goldfield

The closest airports to Goldfield are in Las Vegas and Reno, which are both around four hours away by car.

Bus Stations Near Goldfield

There are no major bus stations in Goldfield, but there are a few small bus companies that serve the area.

Other Options

Some visitors may choose to rent a car or take a private shuttle service to Goldfield.

How to Get Around in Goldfield

Goldfield is a small town that is easy to navigate on foot or by car. Some visitors may choose to rent an off-road vehicle or mountain bike for exploring the surrounding desert terrain.

Where to Go Next from Goldfield: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Goldfield is located in a beautiful region of Nevada that offers many other attractions and destinations. Here are some nearby places to explore:

  • Tonopah: Just 30 minutes north of Goldfield, this historic town is full of charming Victorian-style buildings, art galleries, and museums.
  • Death Valley National Park: Located just across the border in California, this stunning national park features sand dunes, canyons, and unique geological formations.
  • Las Vegas: Just four hours away by car, Las Vegas is a must-visit destination for any traveler.

Conclusion

Goldfield, Nevada offers a unique blend of historic charm and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to explore the town’s rich mining history or go on an outdoor adventure, Goldfield has something to offer. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has inspired you to plan your next trip to this beautiful destination.

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