El Dorado Canyon (Nevada)

El Dorado Canyon is a canyon in southern Nevada, located southeast of Boulder City and near the Colorado River. Its primary historical significance stems from its rich deposits of gold and silver, which led to a mining boom in the mid-19th century. The primary settlement in the canyon was the town of Nelson, Nevada, established in the 1860s to support mining operations.

Mining in El Dorado Canyon was initially placer mining, with miners panning for gold in the riverbed. As surface deposits dwindled, hard rock mining became more prevalent, requiring the construction of extensive underground tunnels and shafts. The Techatticup Mine was the most productive and notorious mine in the canyon, known for its richness but also for its dangerous working conditions and frequent disputes over ownership.

The area was also known for its lawlessness in its early years, with claim jumping, robberies, and murders being commonplace. Its remote location and the influx of fortune seekers contributed to a volatile environment.

Today, El Dorado Canyon is largely a ghost town, though some residents remain. The Techatticup Mine and surrounding buildings are preserved as a historical site and tourist attraction, offering guided tours that explore the history of mining in the area. The canyon's stark desert landscape and historical remnants provide a glimpse into Nevada's mining past. Access is generally via dirt roads, adding to the feeling of remoteness and historical isolation. The canyon is also used for film and photography shoots due to its distinctive scenery.