There are plenty of historic and scenic sites just waiting to be explored outside of Ely, Nevada! Several major mining operations sprung up around this area in the mid to late 1800's due to copper and silver discoveries. One of the major mining towns that can still be accessed and seen today is Hamilton! In 1868, the highest quality silver in Nevada was discovered here, earing the mine $1,000,000, that is about $21 million in todays dollars. If the Hamilton Ghost town is to hard to reach, the Belmont Mill Ghost town is just as exciting and easier to access!
This range is only about an hour west of Ely, making it the perfect day trip location or a quick weekend trip. This area does have old mining pits. Stay Out, Stay alive! Do not enter or go near open mining pits.
Portions of the Shellback Ridge area border designated wilderness, only hikers and equestrians are allowed within the wilderness boundary. Motorized and mechanized use is only permitted on surrounding non-wilderness trails. Please be respectful of the wilderness boundary and only travel on designated roads and trails for your activity type. Horses are allowed and only certified weed free hay can be brought in.
Currently, USDA Forest Service policy considers E-Bikes to be motorized vehicles, and therefore, are restricted to roads and trails designated for motorized use.
For information on recreational activities at the Illipah Reservoir visit the BLM and NV Department of Wildlife websites!
Take in a bit of a history lesson by visiting Hamilton, an old silver mining camp that was established in 1868! Just a few miles past Hamilton, is the Belmont Mill Ghost town! Be sure to stop by here as well.
Visiting Ely and need a place to stay or rent an Off-Highway Vehicle? Visit the White Pine County website to learn more!
For more information visit the BLM or USFS website or contact:
Download map files for your own use.
From downtown Ely, Nevada:
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