Pioche

Nearby Communities

• Caliente
• Panaca
• Alamo
• Rachel
• Ely

Pioche is a historic mining town and the county seat of Lincoln County, Nevada. Nestled in the high desert mountains of southeastern Nevada along U.S. Route 93, Pioche had a population of approximately 600 as of the 2020 Census.

Founded in the 1860s after silver was discovered in the nearby hills, Pioche quickly developed a reputation as one of the roughest towns in the Old West—reportedly more violent than Tombstone, Arizona. At its peak, Pioche had over 6,000 residents and dozens of saloons and businesses. Today, it’s a quiet but fascinating destination for history buffs and outdoor explorers.

Quick Facts

• **Status:** Unincorporated
• **County Seat:** Lincoln County
• **Population:** ~600
• **ZIP Code:** 89043
• **Elevation:** ~6,100 ft
• **Founded:** 1864
• **Route:** U.S. Route 93

Local Economy

Today’s Pioche supports itself through:

• **Tourism and heritage travel**
• **County government and public services**
• **Small businesses and hospitality**
• **Seasonal mining, ranching, and outdoor recreation**

Historic Sites and Attractions

• Boot Hill Cemetery – resting place of gunslingers and vigilantes
• Historic Lincoln County Courthouse – built in 1871
• Thompson’s Opera House – still hosts performances
• Pioche Mining Museum and aerial tramway cables from the silver era
• Scenic hiking in surrounding hills and Echo Canyon State Park

Education

Pioche is part of the Lincoln County School District and includes:

• Pioche Elementary School
• Older students attend school in nearby Panaca or Caliente

Governance and Services

As the county seat, Pioche hosts the Lincoln County Commission and key services including courts, law enforcement, and administrative offices. Utilities and emergency services are coordinated through the county and supported by local volunteers.