The quaint town of Panaca was the first permanent settlement in southeastern Nevada and today remains largely unchanged from its early roots as a Mormon farming community. In fact, many of Panaca’s residents can directly trace their ancestry to the town’s original settlers. The small community was originally part of Utah, but congressional boundary reclassifications in 1866 moved the town into Nevada. Visitors fortunate enough to pause in Panaca will be treated to its well-preserved and historic buildings, fine examples of classic 19th century architecture. But the town has preserved more than its buildings, with evidence of its Mormon roots apparent today. Panaca is a “dry” municipality, the only one in Nevada that forbids the sale of alcoholic beverages. It’s also the only community in the state, besides Boulder City, that prohibits gambling.

The charming town of Panaca is a popular spot for people traveling to the magnificent Cathedral Gorge State Park, which offers great camping, picnicking, fantastic hiking trails and incredible scenery all year round. Nearby Echo Canyon State Park is another beautiful spot for exploration, while the historic charcoal ovens at Panaca Summit are an impressive sight that shouldn’t be missed. Visitors will also find a variety of interesting ghost towns within easy driving distance of the town.