Belmont, Nevada

Today's drive was interesting.  On the recommendation of a friend, I drove to Belmont on NV 377.

Belmont began life in 1865 with the discovery of silver nearby.  The town thrived and within two years, the population had swelled to over 4,000 people.  As several of the mines closed, residents and businesses started to leave.  By 1890 most had left town.  In 1905 the county seat was relocated to Tonopah, sealing the town's fate.

Unlike many other old Nevada mining towns, numerous buildings still stand in Belmont, like the historic Belmont Courthouse, which is part of the Belmont Courthouse State Historical Park.

The location is very remote, thus requiring a bit of effort to reach.  The closest town is Tonopah, about 50 miles.  The road from Manhattan on NV 377 is dirt, but because it is at 7700 feet, this time of year it is snow and mud.  The part of the road with snow was actually much easier to navigate than the road without ....that one was pure mud and I had to use 4-wheel drive to keep from sliding and spinning.  People comment that I am "brave" or "adventurous."  My response is there is a thin line between that and stupid and I cross it on a regular basis. 😓

In the morning I am off on another adventure.  I'm heading north to Winnemucca to experience the brothels.  Wish me luck, as snow is again in the forecast.  I have about 2 weeks left in Nevada and still lots to see!