The Santa Rosa Range isn’t the kind of place you pass through. It’s the kind of place you stumble upon, if you’re lucky, where the road stretches long, the sky swallows the horizon, and the wind hums through forgotten mining towns and ranching outposts. Here, the world moves at its own pace—faster when the storms roll in, slower when the heat settles thick in the valley.
Unionville, where Mark Twain once swung a pickaxe before realizing he preferred a pen. Stone House, a ghost town that refuses to vanish, its crumbling walls holding onto whispers of the Overland Stage Line. Paradise Valley, a ranching relic where time hasn’t just slowed—it’s paused. These are towns that don’t announce themselves. You won’t find neon signs or tourist traps, just a scattering of buildings, a few hardy locals, and a silence so deep you can hear your own thoughts.
This is Nevada at its most raw, its most untamed. Ten towns, barely dots on the map, but big enough to get lost in—if you know where to look.
10. Unionville: Mark Twain’s Secluded Hideaway
Unionville, with a population of fewer than 20 residents, is a ghost town that once thrived during the silver mining boom of the 1860s. Visitors can explore remnants of old stone buildings and mines, capturing the essence of a bygone era. The town is perhaps best known as the temporary home of Mark Twain, who tried his hand at mining before turning to writing. The main industry has faded, leaving behind a quiet community that preserves its historic charm. Its seclusion is accentuated by the surrounding mountains and the sparse population, making it a peaceful retreat for those interested in history and solitude.
Where is Unionville?
Located in Pershing County, Unionville sits in Buena Vista Canyon on the western slopes of the Humboldt Range. Its remote position, far from major highways and cities, contributes to its secluded nature. The town is accessible via a gravel road off Interstate 80, requiring a bit of navigation through the desert landscape. This isolation ensures that Unionville remains a quiet haven, undisturbed by heavy tourist traffic, where one can truly disconnect and step back in time.
9. Stone House: A Deserted Oasis
Stone House is an uninhabited ghost town that offers a unique glimpse into Nevada’s frontier past. Once a station for the Central Pacific Railroad and the Overland Stage Line, it now stands silent, with stone structures that have weathered over a century of desert conditions. There are no residents or industries today, but the preserved buildings attract history enthusiasts and photographers. Its seclusion is due to its abandonment and the vast surrounding desert, providing an eerie yet captivating atmosphere.
Where is Stone House?
Situated in Humboldt County, Stone House lies near the Santa Rosa Range, off of U.S. Route 95. The town can be reached by a dirt road that veers off the main highway, requiring careful navigation. Its remote location, away from populated areas and services, contributes to its deserted feel. Visitors should come prepared, as the isolation means limited cell service and amenities, but the journey offers a rewarding step into the past.
8. Golconda: Mining Heritage and Mountain Backdrop
With a population of around 200 people, Golconda is a small town steeped in mining history. Visitors can explore old mining sites and enjoy views of the surrounding Santa Rosa Range. The town once flourished during the gold and copper mining era in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, it serves primarily as a quiet residential community, and its main industries include some mining operations and local services. Golconda’s seclusion comes from its small population and location amidst expansive desert and mountainous terrain.
Where is Golconda?
Golconda is located in Humboldt County, just east of Winnemucca along Interstate 80. Despite its proximity to the interstate, the town maintains a secluded feel due to its minimal development and the vast open spaces that surround it. Access is straightforward via I-80, but the town’s quiet streets and limited commercial activity make it a peaceful stop. The scenic backdrop of the Santa Rosa Range enhances its sense of isolation and connection with nature.
7. Fort McDermitt: Echoes of History
Fort McDermitt, home to approximately 340 residents, is a community rich in Native American history and culture. Originally established as a military fort in the 1860s, it now serves as the headquarters for the Fort McDermitt Paiute and Shoshone Tribes. Visitors can learn about indigenous history and traditions at local cultural centers. The main industries include tribal administration and ranching. Its seclusion is due to its location on the northern edge of Nevada, providing a quiet and culturally significant retreat.
Where is Fort McDermitt?
Located on the Nevada-Oregon border in Humboldt County, Fort McDermitt is accessible via U.S. Route 95. The town’s remote position, far from major urban centers, contributes to its secluded atmosphere. The surrounding high desert and proximity to the Santa Rosa Range offer expansive views and a sense of tranquility. Travel to Fort McDermitt involves a scenic drive through open landscapes, emphasizing the journey as part of the experience.
6. Paradise Ranchos: Living Off the Beaten Path
Paradise Ranchos is a small, unincorporated community with a sparse population, offering panoramic views of the Santa Rosa Range. The area is characterized by ranching and agricultural activities, with vast tracts of open land. There are few formal attractions, but the natural beauty and opportunity for outdoor activities like hiking and horseback riding draw those seeking a deep connection with nature. Its seclusion stems from its remote location and the limited development in the area.
Where is Paradise Ranchos?
Situated in Humboldt County, Paradise Ranchos is located east of U.S. Route 95, near the base of the Santa Rosa Range. Access requires travel on unpaved roads, enhancing its off-the-beaten-path appeal. The community’s distance from towns and services means visitors should come prepared, but the reward is a peaceful retreat amid Nevada’s natural landscapes. The isolation is perfect for those looking to escape the modern world’s distractions.
5. Kings River Valley: Nature’s Secluded Haven
The Kings River Valley is a sparsely populated area known for its stunning natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor recreation. With a very small population, the valley offers solitude and a close connection to the land. Activities include fishing in the Kings River, hiking, and wildlife viewing. There are few, if any, commercial industries, with ranching being the primary occupation among residents. The seclusion is inherent in the vast open spaces and minimal human presence.
Where is Kings River Valley?
Located in northern Humboldt County, the Kings River Valley lies east of the Santa Rosa Range. Access is via unmarked roads from Nevada State Route 140, requiring careful navigation and sometimes four-wheel-drive vehicles. The remote setting, far from amenities and towns, ensures a quiet environment. This isolation, coupled with the pristine natural surroundings, makes it an ideal spot for those seeking peace and a break from civilization.
4. Orovada: Hidden Heart of Farmland
Orovada is a small agricultural community with around 200 residents, nestled amidst fertile farmlands and the backdrop of the Santa Rosa Range. The town is known for its alfalfa and potato farming, contributing to Nevada’s agricultural output. Visitors can experience rural life and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding fields and mountains. The main industries are farming and ranching, and the town’s quiet demeanor reflects its hardworking community. Orovada’s seclusion is due to its distance from larger towns and its setting within expansive agricultural land.
Where is Orovada?
Located along U.S. Route 95 in Humboldt County, Orovada sits approximately 45 miles north of Winnemucca. Despite its position on a major highway, the town remains peaceful, with little commercial development. The surrounding open spaces and farmland enhance the sense of seclusion. Travelers can reach Orovada by car, enjoying views of the high desert and mountains along the way. Its remote location makes it a quiet stop for those exploring northern Nevada.
3. Denio: Solitude in the High Desert
Denio, with a population of around 40 people, is a tiny community offering solitude amidst unspoiled high desert landscapes. Visitors can explore the nearby Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge and enjoy outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and hot springs soaking. The main industries include ranching and some tourism related to outdoor recreation. Denio’s seclusion is emphasized by its minimal population and vast surrounding wilderness, making it a perfect getaway for solitude seekers.
Where is Denio?
Situated on the Nevada-Oregon border in Humboldt County, Denio is accessible via State Route 140. The town’s remote location, far from larger cities, contributes to its peaceful atmosphere. The journey to Denio involves traversing miles of open desert and rugged terrain. Its isolation is part of its charm, offering visitors a chance to disconnect and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Nevada’s high desert.
2. McDermitt: The Quiet Border Town
McDermitt is a small town straddling the Nevada-Oregon border, with a combined population of around 500 people. The town offers expansive views of the surrounding desert and mountains, providing a tranquil escape. Activities include exploring local historical sites and enjoying outdoor recreation like hiking and rockhounding. The main industries are ranching, mining, and some tourism. McDermitt’s seclusion comes from its remote location and the vast open spaces that envelop it.
Where is McDermitt?
Located along U.S. Route 95, McDermitt is positioned at the northernmost point of Nevada in Humboldt County. Its distance from major urban areas contributes to its quiet nature. Access is straightforward via the highway, but the town’s remote setting ensures limited traffic and a peaceful environment. The surrounding landscapes offer a sense of isolation that is appealing to those looking to get away from it all.
1. Paradise Valley: A Glimpse into Nevada’s Past
Paradise Valley is a historic and secluded town with a population of about 100 residents. Nestled at the base of the Santa Rosa Range, it is known for its well-preserved architecture dating back to the late 19th century. Visitors can stroll through the town to see historic buildings, visit the local museum, and enjoy the peaceful rural setting. The main industries are ranching and some agriculture, reflecting the town’s roots in supporting local miners and settlers. Paradise Valley’s seclusion is due to its location away from major roads and cities, providing a tranquil atmosphere steeped in history.
Where is Paradise Valley?
Located in Humboldt County, Paradise Valley is about 40 miles northeast of Winnemucca. Access is via State Route 290, which winds through scenic landscapes before reaching the town. The isolation is enhanced by the surrounding mountains and the lack of commercial development. Visitors traveling to Paradise Valley can enjoy the journey through vast open spaces and the opportunity to disconnect in a setting that feels untouched by time.
