Belmont Ghost Town Nevada Day Trip Historic Silver Mining Town

Like many things in Nevada, Belmont Ghost Town is in the middle of nowhere. Although the silver mining town of Belmont only prospered for about 20 years, a few notable points of interest exist, including the best-preserved building, the courthouse. During its peak, the high desert town had two saloons, restaurants, a post office, a bank, a school, and enough residents to support two newspapers. Today, Belmont has a few residents and a steady stream of ghost town enthusiasts.

Belmont History Nevada Boom and Bust

At the height of the silver mining boom, Belmont had over 10,000 town folk. Like many other towns, the town soon emptied when the mine played out. From 1876 to 1905, Belmont was the county seat of Nye County, Nevada, with a fine two-story brick courthouse that still stands today. During its peak, Belmont produced over $15 million of silver and other ores. Six mills operated nonstop, processing the ore into bars of silver to be shipped down the valley to Tonopah. The town’s prosperity was tied to the success of its mines, and as the richest deposits dwindled by the late 1880s, residents began to leave.

By 1889, most businesses and people had left town to chase after the latest gold or silver discovery. The few companies left included the drugstore, brewery, and Saloon. A stagecoach still served the town for another year before it went out of business. By 1911, Belmont’s population was less than 50, with no working mines, and there was very little reason for the remaining folks to stay. By 1911, Belmont’s population was less than 50, with no working mines, and there was very little reason for the remaining folks to visit.

There was a minor comeback in 1914 when a mill was reconstructed to process mine tailings and ore from three small mines. The mini-boom lasted until 1922, when the remaining ore was all processed, and no new deposits could be found.

Things to See in Belmont, Nevada

Belmont Courthouse – Designated as a state historical site, this location remains largely intact, although it is currently closed to the public. Built-in 1876 during Belmont’s peak as a booming mining community, the two-story brick structure was designed to serve as the seat of Nye County until 1905. Over the years, visitors have left their mark in various ways, including an unverified carving attributed to Charles Manson (more info.

Dirty Dick’s Belmont Saloon – Dirty Dicks Saloon is an excellent spot to snap a photo to prove you made the journey to Belmont. Although the Saloon itself isn’t as old as Belmont’s original boomtown era, it was built in the 1960s by combining two structures from the early 1900s. Dirty Dick’s operates on solar power and sources its water from a spring and well, showcasing Belmont’s self-sufficient nature. The Saloon is a seasonal establishment, typically open in the summer, and serves as a social hub for visitors exploring the remnants of the ghost town.

Buildings and Ruins – Other remnants include the towering brick chimney of the Monitor-Belmont Mill, damaged by Air Force pilots using it for target practice during World War II, and ruins of miner cabins, mill sites, and the Combination Mill. Belmont Ghost Town was not always as quiet as it is today. The city had its share of murders, lynchings, and the occasional gunfight on the main street. Being out in the middle of nowhere, there was not too much for the miners to do other than work, drink, and fight.

Getting to Belmont Ghost Town

Belmont’s remote location and dry climate have helped preserve its structures, making it an intriguing destination for Western enthusiasts.

To reach Belmont, take US-6 east from Tonopah for about 5.5 miles, then turn north onto State Route 376 for 13 miles. Afterward, head east on Belmont Road (old Nevada 82) for 26.5 miles. The road is paved until you reach the northern edge of the town. Before embarking on your journey, ensure your vehicle is in good working order and carry all the necessary supplies.

Belmont offers a tangible connection to Nevada’s Wild West history, with its weathered ruins and quiet streets whispering stories of a once-thriving silver boomtown.

Nearby Belmont, Nevada

Tonopah Nevada Historic Mining Park

Tonopah, Nevada, often called the “Queen of the Silver Camps,” is halfway between Las Vegas and Reno. In the early 1900s, the town gained recognition for its silver and gold deposits. Recently, the high prices of precious metals, including lithium clays, have spurred new mining projects in the area. Today, tourism is Tonopah’s primary income source, and one of the most popular attractions is the historic mining park. Website.

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