Nelson Ghost Town Trails: 100 Score, Your Weekend Starts Now

Okay, you know I don't throw around "perfect" lightly, but the Nelson Ghost Town Trails in Lake Mead NRA just hit a literal 100 out of 100. Seriously, the conditions are so dialed in right now, you’d think the desert itself was trying to convince you to get out there.

We’re talking 67°F, which in a wide-open desert wash with no shade, feels like the ideal sweet spot. You get the warmth of the sun without any of that oppressive heat that hits this place in a few short weeks. Wind is barely a factor at 5 mph—just enough to rustle the creosote and keep things feeling fresh, not like you're fighting a gale. Zero chance of rain (obviously), and an AQI of 28 means the air is so clear you can see for miles, picking out every detail of the surrounding peaks. This isn't just "good," this is "drop everything and go" good.

This is a three-mile loop with only 250 feet of gain, so on paper, it looks like a walk in the park. And it is, mostly. But don't mistake "easy" for "effortless." You're walking through a desert wash, which means sand and gravel underfoot, and zero tree cover. What makes Nelson Ghost Town Trails special, though, isn't just the trail itself, it's what you're walking through. This place is packed with old mining relics, rusted-out vehicles, and the bones of what was once a roaring gold and silver town. It's like an outdoor museum where you can just wander, and the current conditions let you take your time soaking it all in without rushing for cover.

Now, about the heat. Even at 67°F, the desert sun is serious business. There is no shade on this trail, so you need to be prepared. Bring more water than you think you need – always – and wear a hat and sunscreen. This isn't a hike where you risk a flash flood like Buckskin Gulch, but the sun is your biggest adversary here. It's not a death march, but you can definitely get cooked if you're not paying attention. We went last fall, and even then, you felt the sun digging in. Today, with the temps still below 70, it’s a non-issue as long as you’re sensible.

If you’re bringing a dog, Riley gives it two paws up. He loves sniffing around all the old junk and the wide-open spaces. Just remember, the ground can get hot, even on a perfect day. We always pack extra water for him, and keep an eye on his paws. It’s mostly sand and loose gravel, but there are some rocky bits too. You'll want to take him early in the day, especially if you’re planning on hitting it any later in the week.

Logistically, Nelson Ghost Town is just outside the official Lake Mead NRA entrance, so you're not usually dealing with the typical park entrance fee just for the trails, but it's always good to have your America the Beautiful Pass ready just in case. There’s ample parking right at the ghost town itself, which makes it super easy to just pull up and hit the trail. We usually aim to get there by 9 AM, especially as we get deeper into spring, to beat any crowds and the worst of the midday sun. Today, you've got a little more wiggle room thanks to the amazing temps, but the early bird still gets the quietest experience.

Here’s the thing: look at the forecast. Tomorrow it's hitting 81°F. The day after, 83°F. Then 84°F. These perfect 60-something degree days? They’re fleeting. This is your window. If you're in southern Nevada or just passing through, this isn't the kind of score you ignore. You've got a weekend starting, the conditions are literally as good as they get, and a trail that's easy enough for anyone but interesting enough to keep you engaged. Don't let this one slip by. Go.

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