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Located deep in Utah’s west desert near
the Nevada border is the famous mining camp of Gold Hill. The town
established in 1892 was named after a gold bearing mountain just
east of the town. Gold Hill became famous for its location of many
minerals including silver, gold, copper, lead, tungsten, and
arsenic. The town boomed and died several times in its existence.
The first boom lasted for a decade until its richest mines were
worked out and the town was nearly abandoned. During World War I
arsenic was badly needed and Gold Hill was just the location to find
the mineral.
The mines were reopened and new mills
built, and in 1917 the Deep Creek Railroad was built into Gold Hill.
When WWI ended arsenic was no longer needed and the town once again
died. WWII reawakened the town due to the high demand of tungsten
used in steel and electric filaments. Tons of the mineral was
shipped out until the need slowed and Gold Hill dwindled once again.
In 1940 the last train rails were tore up and sold for scrap. During
the 1940’s several mines were reopened and were mined for arsenic.
This was only temporary and in 1946 the schoolhouse was locked for
the last time and the post office was finally closed in 1949, adding
Gold Hill to the list of Utah’s ghost towns. In its history the town
boasted a population of up to 3000 people.
The town had salons, stores, pool halls,
a post office and even a newspaper (The Gold Hill News). Today many
structures still stand allowing you the opportunity to view into the
towns past. If you visit this area please respect private property
and come prepared. This town is in a very desolate location far from
any services and help. Take plenty of water, food, gas, spare tire,
cell phone etc.
Driving Directions:
The best route is to take I-80 West to Wendover Nevada. In
Wendover take I93 South for approx 30-45 minutes and you
will see a small sign pointing east to Gold Hill. |
