Silver Terrace Cemeteries Virginia City
Explore the historic Silver Terrace Cemeteries, a collection of 11 resting places with 1800s headstones offering views of Virginia City.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Silver Terrace Cemeteries Virginia City
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the historic Silver Terrace Cemeteries, a collection of 11 resting places with 1800s headstones offering views of Virginia City.
"A great historical place to walk and read about, with a free walking tour and awesome little museum."
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The ground is uneven, sandy, and rocky. Avoid open-toed shoes; boots are recommended for comfort and safety.
💧 Bring Water & Sun Protection
It can get hot and dry. Stay hydrated and protected from the sun, especially during warmer months.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Headstones
Throughout the cemeteries
Discover unique, custom headstones dating back to the 1800s, telling stories of miners and early settlers.
Panoramic Views
Upper sections of the cemeteries
Enjoy breathtaking views of Virginia City and the surrounding Nevada landscape from this elevated vantage point.
Eleven Distinct Cemeteries
Across the hillside
Explore the unique organization of 11 cemeteries, reflecting fraternal, religious, and social divisions of the past.
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The ground is uneven, sandy, and rocky. Avoid open-toed shoes; boots are recommended for comfort and safety.
💧 Bring Water & Sun Protection
It can get hot and dry. Stay hydrated and protected from the sun, especially during warmer months.
🚶♀️ Download the Walking Tour
A free audio walking tour is available to download, offering insights into the history and notable figures.
📸 Capture the Views
The cemeteries offer stunning panoramic views of Virginia City, perfect for photography.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The ground is uneven, sandy, and rocky. Avoid open-toed shoes; boots are recommended for comfort and safety.
💧 Bring Water & Sun Protection
It can get hot and dry. Stay hydrated and protected from the sun, especially during warmer months.
🚶♀️ Download the Walking Tour
A free audio walking tour is available to download, offering insights into the history and notable figures.
📸 Capture the Views
The cemeteries offer stunning panoramic views of Virginia City, perfect for photography.
👻 Embrace the Atmosphere
Many visitors report feeling a unique, sometimes spooky, atmosphere due to the history and location. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Silver Terrace Cemeteries for their historical significance, unique headstones, and stunning views of Virginia City. Many find the atmosphere deeply moving and appreciate the preservation of this 19th-century resting place. However, some note the challenging, uneven terrain and occasional vandalism, which can detract from the experience.
"A great historical place to walk and read about. They have a brochure at the entrance where they show different people being buried in their background common but also you can download the walking tour audio For free (see one of my photos)
What a gym of a city it is, including the cemetery. They preserved it the way it was 150 years ago, and they're so proud of their own little town. The little museum is awesome as they have regular everyday household items from 150 years ago mama as if the family just left them behind and they picked it all up."
Angella Raisian
"It's a
long walk. Very interesting , but sad to see all the vandalism that has taken place"
Tina Bell
"I felt goosebumps while exploring this place. The stench of the dead wafts in the air. It’s one of the most beautiful cemetery I visited mostly families of miners were buried here according to their religion. Most tombstones dated back in the 18th century."
Anthony Ibarrola
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Silver Terrace Cemeteries are located on a steep hillside just outside the main town of Virginia City, Nevada. They are easily visible from much of the town. Parking is available nearby, and it's a short walk to the entrance.
Virginia City is a historic town, and while there might be local shuttles or tours, direct public transportation to the cemeteries themselves is unlikely. It's best to drive or take a taxi/rideshare if you're not staying in town.
Yes, it's possible to walk from the historic downtown area to the Silver Terrace Cemeteries. However, be prepared for an uphill trek, especially if you plan to explore the higher sections.
Limited parking is typically available near the entrance points of the cemeteries. During peak tourist seasons, it might be more challenging to find a spot close by.
The access roads and parking areas are generally designed for standard passenger vehicles. RVs and larger vehicles might find it difficult to navigate and park, especially on the steep hillside.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Silver Terrace Cemeteries is generally free. It's a public historical site, allowing visitors to explore and learn about its history without an admission fee.
The cemeteries are typically open during daylight hours. As an outdoor historical site, there are no strict opening or closing times, but it's advisable to visit during safe daylight hours.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Silver Terrace Cemeteries. It's a free historical attraction for visitors to explore.
While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns, uneven terrain, and potential for vandalism. It's best to visit during daylight hours.
While official guided tours might be limited, many visitors utilize the free audio walking tour available for download, which provides historical context and points of interest.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find a collection of 11 historic cemeteries with unique headstones dating back to the 1800s, many belonging to miners and their families. The site also offers impressive views of Virginia City. +1
Most visitors spend about 20-30 minutes walking around and reading headstones. If you plan to explore thoroughly and take in the views, you might spend up to an hour.
Yes, the terrain is very uneven, sandy, rocky, and not level. It's a steep hillside, so sturdy footwear is essential.
There are no facilities within the cemetery grounds. It's recommended to use restrooms and fill water bottles in Virginia City before you visit.
Many visitors and local lore suggest the Silver Terrace Cemeteries have a haunted reputation, adding to the eerie atmosphere for some explorers. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon offers the best light with a golden glow on the headstones and landscape. Early mornings can also provide beautiful, soft light and fewer people.
You can capture unique historic headstones, panoramic views of Virginia City, and the atmospheric landscape of the hillside cemeteries.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, always be respectful of the solemn nature of the site and avoid intrusive or disrespectful photography.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local ordinances and be aware of any restrictions before flying a drone over the cemeteries. Respect for the site and other visitors is paramount.
For headstones, a macro lens or a standard lens with a close focusing distance works well. For landscapes, a wide-angle lens can capture the expansive views. Consider shooting in RAW for better post-processing.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, parents should be mindful of the uneven and potentially hazardous terrain. Ensure children wear appropriate footwear and stay close to adults. The somber nature of a cemetery might also require discussion beforehand to set expectations. Consider downloading the audio tour to make the historical aspects more engaging for older children.
👻 Paranormal Enthusiasts
For those interested in the supernatural, the cemeteries offer a prime location for exploration. While official paranormal tours may not be readily available, the site itself provides a naturally eerie backdrop. Be respectful of the grounds and other visitors while you investigate the spectral stories associated with this historic resting place.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Photographers
Photographers will be drawn to the dramatic landscape and the intricate details of the historic headstones. The elevated position provides stunning panoramic views of Virginia City, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Silver Terrace Cemeteries
Many of the individuals laid to rest here were miners who worked the rich silver veins, along with their families and other prominent citizens of the era. The headstones, some dating back to the 1880s, offer a poignant glimpse into the lives and mortality rates of the time, with many dates showing close proximity, indicative of the harsh realities of life in the West.
Exploring the Silver Terrace Cemeteries provides a tangible connection to Virginia City's boomtown past. The organization of the cemeteries by groups like the Catholics and Masons highlights the importance of community and shared identity even in death during that period.
Navigating the Terrain and What to Expect
While there are paths to follow, navigating the grounds requires careful attention to avoid tripping hazards and potential wildlife.
Despite the ruggedness, the experience is often described as deeply moving and atmospheric. The historical significance, combined with the dramatic landscape, creates a unique environment for reflection. Many visitors find the experience to be both interesting and somber, appreciating the preservation efforts that allow a glimpse into the past.
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