The town of Hilltop began in 1906 when prospectors discovered gold ore very close to the original discoveries of the 1860s. The Hilltop boom really got under way in 1908 and by 1909 there were 200 people living in Hilltop. The town itself was well developed with several fine house, a school, numerous stores, and saloons. By 1912, mining activity was in full swing. Hilltop’s population varied greatly during the teens. By 1918, mining had slowed greatly and only about 50 residents were left. Various companies conducted operations during the period from 1920 to 1927 with various degrees of success. Hilltop still had about a dozen residents during the 1930s but by 1940 it had become a true ghost town. The remains at Hilltop are quite extensive. One could easily spend a full day exploring one of the best spots in Lander County.

Submitted by: Shawn Hall from his book Romancing Nevada's Past: Ghost Towns And Historic Sites Of Eureka, Lander, And White Pine Counties Click here to purchase his book!