Ballarat Ghost Town
One of the first mining towns of the Death Valley gold rush, Ballarat was established in 1897.
Plan Around Ballarat Ghost Town
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Ballarat Ghost Town Details
One of the first mining towns of the Death Valley gold rush, Ballarat was established in 1897 around a series of Panamint Mountain mines that ultimately produced tens of thousands of tons of gold ore. Named after a famous gold camp in Australia, the town at one time had 500 residents and -- in a typical mix -- seven saloons but no churches. Privately owned, Ballarat today has one full-time resident, Rock Novak, who runs a general store catering to tourists and four-wheelers who often assemble and camp here as part of Panamint Mountain expeditions. The town is located off Highway 178 between the western boundary of Death Valley National Park and the town of Trona, California.
Difficulty
Low
Distance
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Estimated time
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Nearby Parks Around Ballarat Ghost Town
Compare nearby parks around Ballarat Ghost Town when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Ballarat Ghost Town
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Ballarat Ghost Town while the map context is still fresh.
5.1 mi away
Surprise Canyon
The strenuous trail to Surprise Canyon used to be shared with off-road vehicles, but the route was closed to vehicles after the road was washed out.
8.8 mi away
Panamint City
This Panamint Range ghost town sprung up after silver and copper was found nearby in 1872.
11.0 mi away
Striped Butte
Striped Butte is located in the remote Butte Valley in the southwest corner of the park.
11.1 mi away
Arcane Meadows
The Arcane Meadows can be found at the 9,800-foot level of the hike to the summit to Telescope Peak.
11.5 mi away
Panamint Range
The 100-mile long Panamint Range forms the mountainous western side of Death Valley.
