Virginia City, Montana

A Montana Ghost Town

Experience the Old West and visit the old mining town of Virginia City, Montana! Gold was discovered in Alder Gulch in the spring of 1863 bringing with it a stampede of gold seekers. Alder Gulch yielded an estimated $30 million in gold just in the three short years between 1863 and 1866. In 1864, the population of Virginia City was more than 10,000. Today there are less than 140 residents. The well preserved, Old West, ghost town, is a vibrant summer destination today.

Things To Do

Pan for gold in nearby Nevada City, ride the Alder Gulch Shortline Railroad between Virginia City and Nevada City and view the dredge tailings or take in a show at the Virginia City Players. Visit the Living History Museum or see a comedy show at the Brewery Follies. Shop the quaint stores that line the Main Street for a western keepsake. There is something for everyone in this very much alive Montana Ghost Town.

Virginia City and Nevada City, located one and a half miles apart, welcome visitors daily from 10 am to 6 pm, Memorial Day through Labor Day. There are things to do for children and adults. Dress up in western garb for an old west photo. Grab an ice cream cone, take in a show, and spend the day in a bygone era.

Stay in Ennis, Montana

Spend the day exploring the mining towns then return to your cozy room or cabin at the Rainbow Valley Lodge, just 14 miles away in Ennis, Montana. We offer a continental breakfast daily, wireless internet, swimming pool, and warm, western hospitality. The drive from Ennis, Montana to Virginia City, Montana is a scenic one. MT Route 287 brings you over the Virginia City Hill, just 10 easy miles away. Look back on the huge Madison Mountain Range before descending into the quaint mining town.

Stay in Ennis where you will find great restaurants, shopping, a whiskey distillery, horseback riding, and more. A larger, full-service town, Ennis is only 70 miles from the west entrance to Yellowstone National Park. Here you will find a grocery store, gas stations, and services not available in the small ghost town.

The Rainbow Valley Lodge in Ennis, Montana provides lodging for ghost town vacations.