If you’re craving something that feels like a real Nevada story (not another “same Vegas, different day” moment), this is your sign to get off the Strip and do something you’ll actually talk about when you get home.

At Awesome Adventures, we built this full day experience around what guests actually want: a tour with a real flow, a real vibe, and a real “we did THAT” finish. You’ll start with a guided sightseeing walking tour through an 1861 ghost town-style location, gear up for an epic off-road ride, cool down and reset in our Adventure Zone, and wrap it all up with the WOW factor: the Techatticup Gold Mine tour, where you’ll hear the history and see what miners were chasing when they came out here looking for fortune.

And yes, we make the content easy too. Free photos and videos are a highlight on our tours so you can stay present while we capture the hype.

Quick Overview

Where you’re going: The Eldorado Canyon / Nelson, Nevada area near Las Vegas, home to iconic desert scenery, Old West vibes, and Techatticup Gold Mine history
What you’ll do: Guided ghost town-style sightseeing walking tour, guided ATV or guided RZR ride on private desert trails, Adventure Zone time, and the Techatticup Gold Mine tour
Best for: First-time riders and experienced riders, couples, groups, corporate/convention crews, bachelor/bachelorette parties, birthdays, and families who want something off the Strip
Why people love it: It feels like a full Nevada story, not just “an activity,” plus free photos and videos so you don’t have to film the whole day

Why This Off-Strip Day Hits Different

Vegas is iconic, but a lot of Strip plans start to blur together. The desert doesn’t.

This experience changes your whole mood. You go from neon and noise to open desert and big views. You’re laughing again. You’re breathing different. And you’re seeing a side of Nevada most visitors never touch.

The Techatticup Gold Mine and Eldorado Canyon region has real character. It’s rugged, scenic, historic, and it looks like a movie set because the area genuinely has that kind of energy. It’s the kind of day that makes your whole trip feel more memorable, not just more scheduled.

Where You’re Going and Why This Area Is Famous

Techatticup Gold Mine sits in the Eldorado Canyon region near Nelson, Nevada. This area is one of the most iconic historic mining zones close to Las Vegas, known for rugged terrain, canyon scenery, and that “Old West still lives here” feeling.

Even if you’re not a “history person,” you’ll love it because it has real character. It’s not polished. It’s not manufactured. It’s the kind of place where you can picture the early era of Nevada, when miners came out here chasing fortune.

It also happens to be ridiculously photogenic. The landscape has depth, texture, and backdrops that don’t look like “generic desert.” It looks like Nevada.

The Awesome Adventures Tour Flow

This is the part that matters most. When people ask, “What do we actually do?” this is the answer.

1) Guided Sightseeing Walking Tour Through an 1861 Ghost Town-Style Location

We start with a guided sightseeing walking tour so the day feels like an experience from the first minute, not just “gear up and go.” You’ll explore Old West vibes, rustic relics, antique collections, and iconic scenery that makes this area so famous.

This is also where groups love to take those first big photos together. The vibe is unreal, and it sets the tone before you even touch the machines.

2) Gear Up and Safety Instructions

Next, we get you geared up and walk you through everything you need to know. Whether you’ve never ridden before or you’ve done this a hundred times, we make sure you’re confident and ready.

We cover how to operate your ATV or RZR, how we ride as a group, spacing, pacing, and how to keep the ride smooth and fun. This is the difference between a ride that feels stressful and a ride that feels like a highlight.

3) Guided Off-Road Ride on Epic Desert Trails

Now it’s go time. You’ll head out on private desert trails with our guides leading the way.

This is not “only for first-timers.” We cater to both first-time riders and experienced riders, and we’re really good at reading the group so the ride feels exciting without feeling chaotic. If your crew wants more adrenaline, we can recommend the best way to level it up.

4) Get Dusted Off + Reset in the Adventure Zone

Yes, you’ll probably get dusty. That’s part of it. After the ride, we dust you off so you’re more comfortable for the rest of the experience.

Then you get time to reset in our Adventure Zone. Groups love this part because it’s where the day keeps flowing instead of ending abruptly.

You’re also welcome to bring your own snacks or lunch and enjoy them in the Adventure Zone after your tour.

5) Techatticup Gold Mine Tour (The WOW Factor Finish)

This is what turns the day into a full Nevada story. You’ll end with the Techatticup Gold Mine tour—hearing the history, seeing the mine up close, and learning what miners were chasing when they came out here searching for fortune.

It’s the perfect finish because it ties everything together. You don’t leave thinking, “Okay, that was fun.” You leave thinking, “That was a whole experience.”

ATV or RZR: Which One Should You Choose?

You can’t really choose wrong. It’s more about what kind of ride you want.

Choose an ATV Tour if you want

A single-rider, hands-on ride that feels sporty and classic
More “I’m driving my own machine” energy
A thrilling experience no matter what your skill level is

ATVs are more active because you’re on your own machine. If you want that classic adrenaline feel, this is it.

Choose an RZR Tour if you want

A side-by-side ride that feels stable with a full roll cage, roof, and seatbelts
A more comfortable seated experience that still hits exciting trails
A great option for couples and groups because you can ride next to someone and switch drivers during the ride

Important note: RZR drivers must be 21 years old to drive.

What’s Included With Awesome Adventures

We handle the details so you can focus on riding and making memories.

Guided sightseeing walking tour through an 1861 ghost town-style location
Guided ATV or guided RZR ride on private desert trails
Free photos and videos captured during your adventure so you can stay present
Unlimited ice-cold water throughout the tour
Clean safety gear and instruction included
Helmet socks provided, and helmets are required while riding
Extra comfort touches depending on weather conditions (including cooling support on hot days)
Adventure Zone time after your ride (and you can bring your own snacks or lunch to enjoy after)

Upgrades and Add-Ons That Make This Even Better

If you’re celebrating, planning a group day, or you’ve got experienced riders in your crew, these add-ons take the experience up a level.

Extended Ride

Want more trail time? Add an Extended Ride for extra riding so you can stay out longer and enjoy more of the terrain.

Desert Dash for Advanced Riders

Built for guests who want a more advanced experience and a more adrenaline-forward ride style. If you’ve ridden before and want something more intense, this is the upgrade.

Sweet Cheers and Celebration

Perfect for birthdays, bachelorettes, anniversaries, or any “we’re celebrating” reason. This adds a fun, photo-friendly celebration moment that makes the day feel extra special.

Poker Run

Large groups love this. It’s interactive, competitive in a fun way, and turns the tour into a full group experience where everyone is laughing, bonding, and engaged.

Scavenger Hunt

Another group favorite. Perfect for corporate outings, convention groups, reunions, and families who love a little competition. It’s fun, easy for large groups, and creates nonstop moments we can capture on camera.

What to Wear (And What Not to Wear)

Closed-toe shoes are mandatory. No exceptions.

We recommend comfortable pants you can move in and a long sleeve shirt to protect you from desert weather elements and terrain.

Bring sunglasses for sun and wind
Bring sunscreen even when it feels cooler
Bring a light layer depending on season
Keep hair flat so the helmet fits properly
Avoid dangling earrings that get annoying under a helmet

You will likely get dusty. We dust you off after the ride, but if you’re planning on going out afterward, bring an extra shirt. Also, white shows dust the most, so plan accordingly.

Weather Tips by Season

Spring

Great temps and clear skies, but it can still feel chilly while riding. Spring can be beautiful because you may catch desert blooms. Sunscreen still matters.

Summer

Hot and bright. Morning timing is a big win, and hydration is everything. Take advantage of the water breaks and don’t show up already dehydrated.

Fall

Cooler mornings, warm afternoons, and some of the best riding weather of the year. Bring a light layer and you’re set.

Winter

Cool air and occasional wind, but still a great time to be outside in the desert. A hoodie or light jacket goes a long way.

Important Booking and Safety Notes

We’re here for a safe, smooth, fun day—and these policies help keep it that way.

Driver requirements and verification

The driver’s license must match the credit card on file used to book. The person who booked the tour will need to show their credit card and ID to the tour guide to verify it is their card.

Incidentals (damage policy)

If an ATV is tipped or rolled, a minimum of $300 plus any additional damages will be charged to the card on file.

If a 2-seater RZR or 6-seater Ranger is tipped or rolled, a minimum of $3500 plus any additional damages will be charged to the card on file.

If a 4-seater RZR is tipped or rolled, a minimum of $4500 plus any additional damages will be charged to the card on file.

The easiest way to avoid this: follow the rules, listen to the guide, ride smart, and keep it smooth. Everyone stays safe, and it doesn’t hit your pocketbook.

Pro Tips That Make the Day Better

Hydrate the night before and the morning of, especially in warmer months
Relax your shoulders and grip—tension is what makes people tired fast
Ride smooth, not fast—smooth is more fun and keeps the group flowing
Follow your guide’s pacing and spacing rules so the ride stays safe and enjoyable
Let us capture the photos and videos so you can actually live the experience
If you’re coming with a group, decide the vibe ahead of time (scenic and chill, or more adrenaline) so we can help tailor the best flow

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

Couples who want a real off-Strip memory that feels different from the typical Vegas itinerary
Bachelor and bachelorette groups who want a high-energy main event (plus free photos and videos of the whole crew)
Corporate and convention groups who want real bonding without awkward icebreakers
Families who want something outdoorsy and memorable near Las Vegas
First-time riders and experienced riders who want a guided ride that feels exciting, safe, and well-run

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour beginner-friendly?

Yes. We guide you through everything and keep the ride organized and fun. We also cater to experienced riders, and upgrades like Desert Dash are perfect if you want something more advanced.

Should I choose ATV or RZR?

Choose ATV if you want a single-rider, hands-on experience. Choose RZR if you want a side-by-side ride that feels stable and comfortable, especially for couples and groups. RZR drivers must be 21+.

Will I get dusty?

Most likely, yes. That’s part of the adventure. We dust you off after the ride, and bringing an extra shirt is a smart move if you’re going out afterward.

Can I bring snacks or lunch?

Yes. You’re welcome to bring your own snacks or lunch and eat in the Adventure Zone area after your tour.

Ready to Turn Your Vegas Trip Into a Real Nevada Story?

If you want a memorable Nevada experience that’s close to Las Vegas but feels like a world away, this Techatticup Gold Mine and off-road adventure is the move. You’ll get the ghost town sightseeing tour, the guided ride on epic trails, time to reset in the Adventure Zone, and the unforgettable Gold Mine tour that ties it all together.

Book HERE or give us a call