Nevada, famed for its star-kissed night sky, is extending an open invitation to visitors across the globe for the rarest celestial extravaganza of the decade. The annular solar eclipse, or the Great American Eclipse, will transpire on October 14, 2023. The event will create a breathtaking spectacle where the moon, in its full glory, wears a fiery halo, often called the “Ring of Fire.”

The annular solar eclipse marks its first occurrence in a span of 11 years, and its journey, this time, weaves through the tranquil towns of Nevada. The rural expanse of the state, renowned as one of the quietest and darkest regions in the lower 48, offers an optimal viewing arena for this celestial marvel. The Great Basin National Park in Nevada, a recognized Dark Sky Sanctuary by the International Dark Sky Association, boasts a unique vantage point with an impressive eclipse viewing duration of three minutes and twenty-nine seconds, as confirmed by the Great American Eclipse website.

Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park | Travel Nevada

Communities across White Pine County, which lies in the eclipse’s path of totality, will be a part of the festivities with the grand Ring of Fire Eclipse Festival, running from October 11 to October 16. The county will come alive with various engaging activities, such as group rides facilitated by the Great Basin Trails Alliance, a unique alien and UFO spectacle at the White Pine Public Museum, and a pub crawl hosted by the White Pine County Chamber of Commerce.

In a twist of tradition and spectacle, spectators can board an early 20th-century locomotive at the Nevada Northern Railway in Ely to observe the eclipse. Setting off from Ely station at 7:30 a.m., Solar Eclipse Limited will journey towards the viewing spot in the Keystone community in the path of totality. The company of NASA-affiliated interpreters will enhance the journey, and each passenger will be given special eclipse-viewing glasses. Ticket prices range from $60 for adults, $51 for seniors, and $30 for children up to 12.

Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest | Travel Nevada

Emphasizing the significance of this event, Tracie Barnthouse, Public Relations Manager at Travel Nevada, stated, “This major celestial event is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the rich experiences offered by Nevada’s rural communities. We are thrilled to welcome visitors and urge them to extend their stay, to immerse themselves in the vast array of adventures awaiting them in the Silver State.”

Beyond the Eclipse Festival, many attractions and activities will be discovered in Ely and White Pine County. History and culture enthusiasts can visit the East Ely Railroad Museum and Nevada Northern Railway, the Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historical Park, and the Ely Mural Walk. Adventure seekers can explore the Ward Mountain Recreation Area, Cave Lake State Park, Garnet Hill, Lehman Caves, Wheeler Peak Summit Trail, and the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest.

As a significant element of Nevada’s diverse offerings, the Great Basin National Park welcomes visitors year-round with many activities and adventures. Learn more about what the state has to offer at www.TravelNevada.com. This celestial event, a union of science and nature, is an ideal occasion to experience the extraordinary and rediscover the charm of Nevada’s rural landscapes.

Written by: Matthew Thomas

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