Wells is a small city in Nevada. It’s just 50 miles (80.47 kilometers) away from Elko, a more populous area packed with several accommodations, from exciting hotels with casinos to local inns. However, if you are looking for some home-like experience in Elko or nearby areas, there are other options as well. You can book any of the cozy Airbnb vacation rentals in the area. Ideally located where the I-80 and U.S. 93 meet in Northern Nevada, only a few visitors have discovered the scenic beauty of this place and beyond. It has hidden valleys with creeks, rivers, and lakes that beckon every guest to enjoy their coolness and loveliness.
For hiking enthusiasts, there are several trails that lead to the many secret treasures of Wells and nearby places. If you are staying a few days in Wells, you can play golf, go fishing, and even visit one of its casinos. Wells may be small but it offers a variety of activities that most travelers crave. Read on to learn more about the best things to do in Wells, Nevada!
1. Bull Creek Outfitters
The humble city of Wells - and Northeastern Nevada at large - attracts thrill-seekers and adventurers with its unique geographical layout, as it is surrounded by abundant wildlife, flora, and fauna. This setting also makes for an unusual spot for hunting tours. If you’re still somehow skeptical about this fact, let Bull Creek Outfitters change your perception a bit.
One of Nevada’s best hunting preserves, Bull Creek Outfitters specializes in guided hunts for mountain lions. These types of wild cats can be found throughout the state, and with such an elusive character, it takes plenty of skill to catch one. This place to go in Wells, Nevada, is a must for die-hard hunters looking for something new apart from the usual deer-hunting activities.
Bull Creek Outfitters
Address: 4176 N Metropolis Rd, Wells, NV 89835, United States
Website: Bull Creek Outfitters
Price: 104 USD onwards
2. Wells California Trail Overlook
Although it now serves as a pit stop for road-trippers traveling along the I-80 highway, Wells in Nevada was once a vital point of interest for emigrants heading westward to the coasts of California. The California Trail was a pivotal moment in American history, where the untamed, marvelous beauty of the Wild West was a brand-new discovery, even to those who were familiar with the East.
On their journey, travelers encounter a fork in their trail leading to two different directions. Those who chose to go left will soon discover some “well springs” that were sourced from the Humboldt River. The area with those springs eventually became what’s known today as the city of Wells. To commemorate this feat, several historical markers have been put out along the original route.
Wells California Trail Overlook
Address: 451 6th St, Wells, NV 89835, United States
3. 12 Mile Hot Spring
12 Mile Hot Spring, also known as Bishop Creek Hotspring, is a shallow, man-made pool, filled with hot water flowing from a spring at the side of a canyon. One can only drive up to a certain point since the road becomes too rough and muddy as you near the area. You should find a place to park your vehicle and be ready to trudge through rugged terrain. The pool is not very deep, but it is 40 feet (12.2 meters) long. Still, it can get crowded because many visitors to Wells consider the hot spring a part of their itinerary. Just lying in the hot water will drive away your tiredness and makes the trip worth it.
12 Mile Hot Spring
Address: Bishop Creek, Wells, NV
4. Angel Lake
Angel Lake is located in Elko County, in the northern part of Nevada. At 8,378 feet (2,553.6 meters), one can enjoy a spectacular view of the places below, including Wells. Guests can engage in an array of activities here, including fishing and sailing on the lake, using non-motorized water vessels. One can also spend days hiking the various trails that give access to many other lovely spots in Nevada. Families can have a great time camping and picnicking here.
Angel Lake
Address: East Humboldt Range, Elko County, Nevada
Website: Angel Lake
5. Wells City Park
The Wells City Park was constructed for the use of the residents of Wells. In 2008, a pavilion was constructed in memory of long time residents, Butch and Dorothy Elton. The structure has been rented out as a venue for social gatherings, meetings, and conferences. The grassy lawn of the park is an excellent place for families to have picnics. Children can freely roam and play as much as they want here.
Wells City Park
Address: Wells City Park, Wells, NV 89835, USA
Website: Wells City Park
6. Angel Creek Campground
Angel Campground is just 8 miles from the city of Wells. The campground is grassy, with mature aspens providing shade, and wild flowers adding color to the lovely place, during the summer. The campground has excellent amenities, with toilets, water, picnic tables, firewood, grills, and tent pads for campers.
The campground is always alive with activities and the combined smells of barbecue cooking, the leaves of the trees, the flowers, and the grass, create a fragrance that is unique at the site. Angel Lake is close by, offering water activities, such as swimming, fishing, and canoeing, while the numerous trails beacon to the adventurous to follow the path. Angel Creek Campground is among the best campgrounds in Nevada.
Angel Creek Campground
Address: Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest
Website: Angel Creek Campground
7. Chimney Rock Golf Course
One of the sports that visitors can fully enjoy is golf. The city takes pride in its 9-hole course, Chimney Rock Golf Course, with the impressive Humboldt Mountains in the background.There is a snack bar, a pro shop, and carts to rent, to enhance your golfing experience.
Chimney Rock Golf Course
Address: 144 Ventosa, Wells, NV 89835, USA
Website: Chimney Rock Golf Course
8. Lamoille Canyon
Lamoille Canyon is a valley believed to have been formed by glaciers, during the ice age. Located in the center of Elko County, it is the biggest valley found in Ruby Mountain, with a length of 19 kilometers (11.8 miles). The road leading to the canyon is aptly named the Scenic Byway, because of its magnificent, natural beauty.
The road ends in a parking area at the top, with several trails leading to beautiful places. There are picnic areas and campgrounds here, from where one can enjoy nature to its fullest.
Lamoille Canyon
Address: Lamoille Canyon, Nevada 89828, USA
Website: Lamoille Canyon
9. Spruce Mountain
Spruce Mountain is one of the highest peaks in the US and perhaps, the highest in Nevada. Wells is located at the foot of this mountain. From the peak of the mountain, one is presented with an awesome view of the surrounding hills and lower peaks. Well is at the foot of this mountain and those who want to explore it can start climbing from Wells.
The road is accessible by car and beside the road, along the way, there are scenic sights. There is a ghost mining town that used to thrive when lead and silver was mined in the area. The peak must be reached by foot but your effort is rewarded with a spectacular view.
Spruce Mountain
Address: Elko County, Nevada
Website: Spruce Mountain
10. Terry Wells Nevada Discovery Museum
The Terry Wells Nevada Discovery Museum presents a great learning opportunity for its visitors. Featured and permanent exhibits are all awesome, opening up a world that is alien to young children and even some adults. Recently, Sue, the biggest and most complete skeleton of a dinosaur ever discovered, has been featured in the museum.
One popular exhibit for little children is the “Little Discoveries”, where toddlers can learn and explore. “Under the Stars” is a gallery that takes visitors from night to day and day to night. There is a tent and a cave set up for exploring the natural wonders of Wells.
Terry Wells Nevada Discovery Museum
Address: 490 S Center St, Reno, NV 89501, USA
Website: Terry Wells Nevada Discovery Museum
11. Trail of the 49ers Interpretative Center
This center allows visitors to relive the life of the 49ers, who were the pioneers who took the difficult and long journey in search of gold, during the 1849 Gold Rush in California. One can track the path they took, one of which is the road to the Death Valley Canyon. There are artifacts on display and a shop where visitors can buy books about the 49ers, as well as gift items.
Trail of 49ers Interpretative Center
Address: 436 6th Street. Wells, Nevada
Website: Trail of 49ers Interpretative Center
12. Western Folklife Center
The Western Folklife Center has exhibitions, educational programs, radio and television programs and research projects, that showcase the traditional culture of the American West. The facility has a 300-seat theater and features various cultural shows and presentations.
Western Folklife Center
Address: 501 Railroad St, Elko, NV 89801, USA
Website: Western Folklife Center
Wells, the gateway to the West
Wells might be a small city, but it serves as the gateway to the west. Its various trails which lead to Nevada’s hidden, beautiful spots, ghost mining settlements, mountains peaks, canyons, rivers, lakes, museums and cultural centers, echo the colorful past of the west.