The short drive to Nelson from Las Vegas offers a quick glimpse of the rugged beauty of the desert’s edge. Definitely out of town but certainly not out in the middle of the Mojave. This photogenic scenery alone is almost enough reason to take the trip. But there’s much more to explore!

The actual location is less than an hour drive from Las Vegas. Part ghost town, part movie set or photo shoot location, part shuttered gold mine - this is a location that very few will explore while visiting Las Vegas. 

They are missing a great morning or afternoon of adventure, beauty and world class photo ops. World. Class.  We haven’t even mentioned the Colorado River! A short drive further down the road… we’ll get to that in a minute. 

The journey to Nelson is a short scenic drive through the desert, capped off by towering cliffs as you enter the canyon nearing the desert hamlet. Be sure not to pull into the trailer park to your right! That’s the marker we locals use to tell the kids to get excited because, “we’re almost there!” 

Just a few more minutes down the road, on the left, you can’t miss the rustic charm - some manufactured and some legit - of Nelson. It won’t take long before you see why this place should be a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Nelson is home to the long-shuttered Techatticup Mine, the oldest and once the richest mine in southern Nevada. Visitors can explore the mine through guided tours, which provide fascinating insights into the harsh realities of mining life and the area's notorious past, including tales of lawlessness and the struggles between Native Americans and miners. The ghost town is filled with weathered wooden buildings, antique vehicles, and mining equipment, offering countless photo opportunities and a tangible connection to the past.

Beyond its photo op and historical allure, Nelson also offers a stunning vantage point of the Colorado River. Just a ten minute drive beyond the gold mine you hit the dead end of the paved road, with the river down below creating a most beautiful backdrop. From there it’s a short, somewhat steep, hike down to the riverbank. A chance to explore the area's natural beauty from the water as well as…. more photo ops! 

Nelson is one of those places that will be enthralling for all ages, including the parents. There’s just enough colorful things to see (and sometimes climb) for the little ones. The mine tour is definitely something not to miss for most school-aged kids all the way to the grandparents, as long as they can traverse the less than ideal footing. 

Whether you're a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique day trip, Nelson promises the whole family an unforgettable experience.

Did we mention… bring your best camera!