The Elko area was inhabited 10,000-13,000 years ago by Native Americans but was settled by the first white men, who were fur-trappers, in 1827. Through the next couple of decades, a stream of pioneers and wagon trails passed through Elko’s hills creating distinct curves which would be the future mountain roads. The town of Elko was born in 1868 after the Central Pacific Railroad pushed its tracks eastwards. At the beginning of 1869, there were but a few tents and within a few weeks, plots were selling for $300-$500 each!

Sheepherders and cattlemen were the majority of the early Elko settlers, but in 1874, when the University of Nevada opened in Elko, a very different type population began developing. Elko became an educational beacon in the area when in 1885 it opened the region’s first high school.

Today Elko is a bustling center of commerce and tourism, which has a number of regular unique festivals and cultural gatherings. In January, Elko hosts the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering which is a week-long tribute to the cultural life in the rural West. Elko is also hosts the National Basque Festival which is a celebration of the rich Basque culture and its close ties to the Elko community.

Like most towns in Nevada, Elko also has its fair share of casinos. With a different style to the ‘bright lights, big city’ casinos that Las Vegas offers, Elko’s gambling resorts provide a true taste of the original Wild West hospitality and comfort.

Being a historic town, there are a few museums and galleries that are a must-see: The Northeastern Nevada Museum, Sherman Station and the Western Folklife Center. Stunning parks and nature walks are a prime feature of the area offering a day out for the whole family – picnic areas, swimming pools, tennis courts, barbeque pits, horse rides and playgrounds.

For a short drive out of town, a number of scenic tours await. The Lamoille Canyon displays stunning wildflowers, plentiful wildlife, waterfalls, valleys, and avalanche chutes. Lamoille Town is a quaint community sheltered at the foot of the Ruby Mountains at the edge of a small creek – the ideal stop after a nature trail in the canyon. Ghost towns are also scattered around the Elko area offering the visitor a true taste of the bygone days.

For a great holiday destination which offers rural comforts and hospitality, culture and nature attractions combined with the convenient amenities of a small city, make sure to visit Elko.

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