Visit the Elko Nevada Temple by LDS Temple News
The Elko Nevada Temple stands as the 209th dedicated temple in operation within the Church, a significant addition to the spiritual landscape of the region. Located at 2102 Ruby Vista Dr, Elko, NV 89801, this house of the Lord symbolizes hope and commitment to the community.
A Historical Announcement
The journey began on April 4, 2021, during the General Conference, when Prophet Russell M. Nelson publicly announced the Elko Nevada Temple. This moment marked the beginning of a new chapter for many who had long awaited a temple in Elko County.
Groundbreaking and Dedication
The groundbreaking and dedication of the house of the Lord took place on May 7, 2022, led by Paul B. Pieper. After several years of anticipation, the public open house was conducted from August 30, 2025, to September 13, 2025, allowing many to experience the beauty of the temple’s interiors. On October 12, 2025, the house of the Lord was dedicated by Apostle Gary E. Stevenson, who offered a dedicatory prayer that expressed the hope for the temple to be “a source of light and peace.”
Design Highlights
Occupying a generous 5.2 acres, the Elko Nevada Temple features stunning architectural elements. The exterior is adorned with White Mount Airy Granite stone veneer, while the design showcases a single attached end spire. Unique to this temple is the absence of a Gold-leafed Angel Moroni statue, which sets it apart within the region. The structure measures 12,901 square feet and reaches a height of 108.10 feet, an impressive presence in the landscape.
Elevation and Location
Set at an elevation of 5,133 feet, the temple is the first of its kind in the city of Elko and the first in Elko County. Additionally, it ranks as the third temple in the state of Nevada. Upon its dedication, it became the northernmost temple in the state, serving as a beacon for many.
Artistic Elements
The interior of the Elko Nevada Temple is thoughtfully decorated with original artwork created by several renowned artists. The collection includes significant landscape paintings such as “Lamoille Canyon” by Michael Coleman and “Autumn Sun — Ruby Mountains” by Louis Heinzman. Additionally, sacred pieces by Michael Malm and Albin Veselka enrich the spiritual atmosphere within.
Glass and Lighting
The exterior art glass features motifs of the desert globemallow, reflecting the natural high-desert landscapes surrounding Elko. The vibrant shades of orange, yellow, and green enhance the aesthetic, while geometric patterns inspired by the Paiute and Shoshone tribes add depth to the design. The interior light fixtures, crafted from brass with frosted glass, complement the overall elegance of the temple.
Significant Impact
Upon its dedication, the Elko Nevada Temple served a wide area, encompassing towns and communities across six large counties, covering approximately 46.5% of the state’s area, or 51,389 square miles. This significant reach demonstrates the temple’s role in uniting a diverse population.
The dedication of the Elko Nevada Temple is particularly noteworthy as it marks the first time since 1888 that a house of the Lord was dedicated during a period of apostolic interregnum. This historic moment parallels the dedication of the Manti Utah Temple when President Wilford Woodruff was president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
In summary, the Elko Nevada Temple embodies a commitment to spiritual growth and beauty. From its artistic features to its historical significance, this house of the Lord stands as a testament to faith and perseverance within the state of Nevada.