The Toiyabe Range runs like a stone spine through the middle of the state, shadowed by the drama of the Sierras and ignored by speed-focused roadtrippers on U.S. 50. But tucked between the range’s high ridges and desert basins are towns that didn’t vanish when the silver did—places like Ophir, Carvers, and Cloverdale that didn’t pivot toward reinvention, they just quietly kept existing.
This isn’t about tourism gloss. It’s about lived-in landscapes and unpaved roads, where post offices double as gathering places and hot springs still steam undisturbed by spa brochures. These ten towns weren’t designed to be discovered; they just are. They hold to their rhythms—old mining timetables, ranching routines, and the kind of silence you earn by showing up.
Why “Toiyabe”? From the Shoshone word toiyapi, it means “mountain.” And these mountains have shaped more than just the skyline—they’ve guarded stories, slowed time, and left these towns suspended in something between memory and motion.
Below are 10 quiet outposts with desert views, cold rivers, and front porches that face the wind. You don’t have to move fast out here. But you might just find yourself staying longer than planned.
10. Ophir: The Forgotten Mining Town in the Toiyabe Range
With a population that has dwindled to near zero, Ophir stands as a silent testament to Nevada’s rich mining history. This abandoned town offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past, with remnants of old buildings and mines dotting the landscape. Exploring Ophir, you can wander through the ghostly remains, imagining the bustling life that once filled its streets during the silver boom.
There are no industries here anymore; the town is a relic, preserved by its isolation. What makes Ophir truly secluded is its high-altitude location deep within the Toiyabe Mountains, far from major roads and modern development. The quiet serenity and breathtaking mountain scenery make it a fascinating destination for adventurous souls seeking solitude and a touch of history.
Where is Ophir?
Ophir is tucked away in the heart of the Toiyabe Range in central Nevada, nestled high in the mountains at an elevation of over 9,000 feet. Its remote location is accessed via unpaved roads, making it a challenge to reach but rewarding for those who venture forth. The town’s seclusion is amplified by the rugged terrain and lack of nearby settlements, enveloping visitors in a sense of timeless isolation.
To get there, travelers must navigate winding mountain paths, typically using four-wheel-drive vehicles, which adds to the sense of discovery and adventure. Ophir’s hidden position amidst towering peaks truly makes it a forgotten gem awaiting rediscovery.
9. Cloverdale: Hidden Hot Springs Oasis
Cloverdale is a tiny, unincorporated community known primarily for its secluded hot springs that offer a peaceful retreat in the midst of the desert. With a sparse population, this oasis provides a quiet escape for visitors looking to soak in natural hot springs surrounded by the vastness of Nevada’s landscapes.
Activities here revolve around relaxation and nature appreciation, with stargazing being a popular nightly pastime due to the area’s minimal light pollution. There are no significant industries in Cloverdale, contributing to its tranquil atmosphere. Its seclusion stems from its remote location and the fact that it’s off the main tourist trails, making it an ideal spot for those seeking solitude and rejuvenation.
Where is Cloverdale?
Located on the western edge of the Toiyabe Range, Cloverdale sits between Austin and Tonopah, accessible via a network of rural roads. The town’s hidden nature is heightened by the surrounding desert terrain and the absence of signage directing travelers to it.
To reach Cloverdale, visitors must venture off the beaten path, often requiring local knowledge or GPS assistance to navigate the less-traveled routes. This remoteness ensures that Cloverdale remains a peaceful haven, where the only sounds are those of nature and the bubbling of its soothing hot springs.
8. Gabbs: Solitude Under the Desert Sky
Gabbs is a small town with an approximate population of around 250 residents, offering a tranquil lifestyle under the expansive desert sky. While the town itself is quiet, it serves as a gateway to outdoor activities such as hiking, off-roading, and rockhounding in the surrounding areas. Historically, Gabbs was known for its magnesite mining operations, but today, the industry has largely faded, leaving behind a peaceful community.
The secluded nature of Gabbs is due to its remote location in Nevada’s high desert, far from major cities and highways. The vast open spaces and minimal population make it a perfect spot for those seeking solitude and a deep connection with nature.
Where is Gabbs?
Gabbs is situated northeast of the Toiyabe Range, nestled between the mountain range and the Desatoya Mountains. Its location along State Route 361 places it well off the main thoroughfares, contributing to its sense of isolation. The town is approximately 140 miles southeast of Reno, requiring a drive through scenic but sparsely populated areas.
Getting to Gabbs involves traveling long stretches of quiet roads, reinforcing the feeling of stepping away from the hustle of everyday life. The remoteness of Gabbs provides unobstructed views of the starry night skies and a profound sense of peace.
7. Carvers: Gateway to Toiyabe’s Untamed Wilderness
Carvers is a small community with around 100 residents, serving as a pivotal access point to the unspoiled wilderness of the Toiyabe Range. The town offers basic amenities and is a popular stop for travelers looking to explore the remote trails, campgrounds, and scenic vistas nearby. Outdoor enthusiasts can engage in activities such as hiking, hunting, and wildlife observation in the surrounding mountains.
Carvers has a modest economy centered around ranching and serving the needs of visitors passing through. Its secluded ambiance is due to its remote location and the vast stretches of natural landscapes that envelop it, providing a tranquil environment away from urban distractions.
Where is Carvers?
Located in central Nevada along State Route 376, Carvers lies to the east of the Toiyabe Range, approximately 60 miles south of Austin. The town’s isolation is accentuated by the expansive desert plains and the lack of nearby significant settlements.
To reach Carvers, travelers journey through open roads flanked by dramatic mountain ranges, often without encountering much traffic. This remoteness makes Carvers a serene gateway to the untamed beauty of the Toiyabe Range, appealing to those who relish the quiet and majesty of Nevada’s wilderness.
6. Manhattan: A Glimpse of Gold Rush Glory
Manhattan is a small town with a population of approximately 100 people, offering a snapshot of Nevada’s mining heritage. Founded during the silver boom and later revitalized by gold discoveries, Manhattan retains a nostalgic charm with its historic buildings and mining relics. Visitors can explore old mines, visit the local museum, and experience the frontier spirit that still lingers in the air.
The main industry has traditionally been mining, though activity has decreased over time. Manhattan’s seclusion comes from its tucked-away location amid Nevada’s mountain ranges, providing a peaceful setting enclosed by nature.
Where is Manhattan?
Nestled in northern Nye County, Manhattan lies east of the Toiyabe Range, accessible via State Route 377 off the main highway. The town is situated about 50 miles north of Tonopah, surrounded by the vast Nevada desert and rugged mountains.
Its remote location and minimal traffic contribute to its quiet atmosphere. Getting to Manhattan involves a scenic drive through arid landscapes and open skies, reinforcing the sense of isolation. The journey rewards travelers with a step back in time and a tranquil escape from modern life.
5. Belmont: Silver Town Turned Secluded Escape
Belmont is a historic town with a small population, now almost a ghost town, preserving the rich history of Nevada’s silver mining era. Visitors can wander through the well-preserved courthouse, old saloons, and various ruins that tell tales of its bustling past.
There are no active industries today, but the town serves as a fascinating open-air museum. Belmont’s seclusion is heightened by its remote mountain setting and lack of modern development, offering a quiet haven for history enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
Where is Belmont?
Situated northeast of the Toiyabe Range, Belmont is located in Nye County, about 45 miles northeast of Tonopah. The town is reached via a series of rural roads that wind through the desert and hills, contributing to its off-the-beaten-path allure.
The absence of nearby towns and its placement amid expansive natural surroundings make it one of the more isolated historic sites in the region. Traveling to Belmont immerses visitors in Nevada’s high desert beauty, with the journey itself being part of the experience.
4. Berlin: Ghostly Remnants in Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park
Berlin is a preserved ghost town within the Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park, offering a unique combination of mining history and paleontological wonders. With no permanent residents, Berlin allows visitors to explore structures from the late 1800s, including a mine and workers’ cabins.
The park is also home to the largest known ichthyosaur fossils, adding a prehistoric element to the experience. There are no industries here, as the town is maintained for historical and educational purposes. Berlin’s seclusion is maintained by its protected status and remote location, providing a serene environment for exploration.
Where is Berlin?
Berlin is located on the western slopes of the Shoshone Mountains, bordering the eastern edge of the Toiyabe Range. The state park lies approximately 20 miles east of Gabbs, accessible via State Route 844. The area’s remoteness is characterized by the rugged terrain and limited access roads, making it a quiet retreat for visitors.
Traveling to Berlin involves navigating through picturesque but isolated desert landscapes, enhancing the sense of stepping back in time. The journey culminates in a peaceful setting where history and natural beauty converge.
3. Ione: The Quiet Echoes of a Near-Ghost Town
Ione is a nearly abandoned town with just a handful of residents, offering a peaceful atmosphere amidst historical remnants. Visitors can explore old buildings, including a schoolhouse and remnants of mining operations that hint at its former vitality.
There are no significant industries left in Ione, contributing to its tranquil and undisturbed ambiance. The town’s seclusion is due to its remote location and the surrounding undeveloped land, making it a quiet haven for those interested in history and solitude.
Where is Ione?
Ione is situated in Nye County, east of the Toiyabe Range, accessible via a series of unpaved roads off State Route 844 near Berlin. Its location deep within the high desert contributes to its isolation, as it is distant from major towns and highways. Reaching Ione requires a sense of adventure and a willingness to traverse remote areas, often without cell service or amenities along the way. This seclusion enhances the town’s quiet charm, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the serene surroundings.
2. Austin: Historic Solitude Along the Loneliest Road
Austin is a small town with a population of around 200 residents, rich with history and surrounded by the beauty of the Toiyabe Range. The town offers several activities, including exploring historic churches, antique shops, and nearby mountain trails.
Once a booming silver mining town, Austin’s main industries now are tourism and small-scale ranching. Its seclusion stems from its location along U.S. Route 50, famously dubbed “The Loneliest Road in America,” which sees minimal traffic. The town’s mountainous setting and historic architecture make it a captivating destination for those seeking both culture and solitude.
Where is Austin?
Located in central Nevada, Austin sits on the western slopes of the Toiyabe Range along U.S. Route 50. Its remote position, over 100 miles from the nearest sizable city, contributes to its quiet atmosphere. The town is accessed via a scenic drive through vast stretches of desert and mountain landscapes, with few signs of civilization en route.
This isolation enhances Austin’s appeal as a tranquil retreat, offering visitors a chance to disconnect and appreciate the rugged beauty of Nevada’s interior. The journey to Austin reinforces the feeling of stepping away from the fast pace of modern life.
1. Kingston: A Hidden Retreat in the Toiyabe Mountains
Kingston is a small community of about 100 residents, nestled deep within the Toiyabe Range. The town offers a peaceful environment, with outdoor activities like fishing in the nearby river, hiking on mountain trails, and exploring the scenic Toiyabe Crest Trail.
Kingston’s primary industries are ranching and serving as a haven for retirees and remote workers seeking tranquility. What makes Kingston secluded is its location at the end of a valley, surrounded by towering peaks and accessible only by a single road. The town’s serene setting and close-knit community make it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle.
Where is Kingston?
Kingston is located in Lander County, on the eastern slopes of the Toiyabe Range, accessed via State Route 376 and then turning onto a county road leading into Big Smoky Valley. The town’s remote location is accentuated by the encircling mountains and limited access routes.
Getting to Kingston involves a journey through expansive desert valleys and then into the mountains, creating a sense of entering a hidden world. The town’s seclusion provides residents and visitors with a deep sense of peace, free from the noise and distractions of larger towns or cities.
