While I was working my way toward northern California, I made a number of stops to explore old ghost towns in western Nevada. It was getting late so I was figured I should find a good place to camp. After seeing a dirt road to veer off of highway 95 from, I made my way east into a vast open area surrounded by nearby mountains (bordering Area 51 I think). There were rugged roads in many directions and I just let the truck lead the way, eventually ending halfway up a hillside providing outstanding views of the vistas below.
There was old mining equipment strewn around the site, and so I thought this would be an exciting area to explore after I set up my camp. There was not a soul in sight. The weather was perfect (at least at the moment. Hours later the wind was quite fierce.) and the views majestic.
I began to investigate the the area, working my way up the hillside when I happened upon an opening in the mountain. After a quick glance I went back to my truck to get some supplies…namely, a good flashlight and my gun. I went back up to the shaft (or perhaps more accurately, a cave tunnel opening). I noticed narrow gauge train tracks, so I figured this tunnel must go quite a long way. Have a look at the video below to see my experience.
Nevada’s abandoned mines are found throughout the state. According to the Nevada Division of Minerals, there are over 100,000 abandoned mines. If it’s not obvious, I should mention that entering an abandoned mine can be very dangerous, and if done, should be at your own risk. 
The dangers might not be obvious at first inspection, so here are some things to consider…
- Mines can have unstable openings and walls.
- Toxic gas and/or a lack of oxygen.
- Decayed timbers can cause cave-ins.
- Unstable explosives and toxic chemicals can be left behind.
- Shafts filled with water…if you fall in you could drown.
- Poisonous snakes, spiders and other critters.
- Bats and rats may carry diseases.
Click the following link to see more of my Abandoned Nevada Mines and Ghost Towns pictures. If you enjoyed this post and video, please hit the “like” button and share with friends and family, it really helps.
If you’d like to explore this particular mine, here are the coordinates: 37 32′23.5 n, 117 10′18.5 w. Note: If you go, watch out for nails near the site…I would recommend not parking your vehicle near the site, but rather walk up.
Boulder City is a stark contrast to the rest of Nevada. It is the only major city within Nevada that does not allow for any type of gambling. Even a raffle requires a special permit by the city. The town prides itself as being an alternative to Vegas. With that said, Boulder City may come across as a dull place, however there are still plenty of activities available for those living in or visiting 
Boulder City was originally developed as a federal reservation for those working on the Hoover Dam in the 1930s. Once the dam was completed, the town remained and now those living in Boulder City can check out one of the modern man-made marvels of the world.
As a result of Hoover Dam, the largest man-made lake in the world was created in Lake Mead. The lake is 112 miles long with over 550 miles of shoreline. For those that love water recreation, Lake Mead is the place to go in the Las Vegas area. Boating is easily the most popular recreational activity at the lake, but you can also fish, swim, sunbath and water ski. With a few exceptions, you can enjoy activities at Lake Mead year-round.
If you are a fan of railroads, or have kids or grand children that love trains, then a visit to the Nevada State Railroad Museum is a must. You can learn about the history of the trains used during the construction of Hoover Dam and even take a ride on some of the classic trains.
