House of the Lord Elko Nevada Temple by LDS Temple News
Introduction to the Elko Nevada Temple
The Elko Nevada Temple stands as the 209th dedicated temple in operation, marking a significant milestone in the history of the region. Located at 2102 Ruby Vista Dr, Elko, NV 89801, this House of the Lord was announced to the public on April 4, 2021, by Prophet Russell M. Nelson during the General Conference.
Groundbreaking and Dedication
The groundbreaking and dedication of the House of the Lord took place on May 7, 2022, led by Paul B. Pieper. Following this, an open house was held from August 30, 2025, to September 13, 2025, allowing individuals to experience the interior of the House of the Lord prior to its dedication. The formal dedication occurred on October 12, 2025, conducted by Apostle Gary E. Stevenson. In his dedicatory prayer, he expressed a desire that this holy house would be “a symbol of light and peace and a strength for all eyes that fall upon it.”
Architectural Features and Design Elements
Location and Size
Elko Nevada Temple is beautifully situated on 5.2 acres, with a height of 108.10 feet and an elevation of 5,133 feet. This single-story House of the Lord stands out not only in its stature but also as the first temple in the city of Elko and the first in Elko County. Remarkably, it is the third temple built in the state of Nevada.
Exterior and Interior Design
The exterior of the House of the Lord features an elegant White Mount Airy Granite stone veneer, complemented by a single attached end spire, which is distinctive in its design. Notably, there is no Gold-leafed Angel Moroni Statue adornment.
The art glass incorporated into the windows presents motifs prominently featuring the desert globemallow, reflecting vibrant shades of orange, yellow, and green. This design mirrors the natural high-desert landscapes surrounding Elko and includes geometric patterns inspired by the Paiute and Shoshone tribes.
Artistic Contributions
Several notable artists contributed to the fine art displayed within the House of the Lord. This collection includes landscape paintings such as “Lamoille Canyon” by Michael Coleman, “Elko Landscape” by David Dibble, and “Autumn Sun — Ruby Mountains” by Louis Heinzman. The temple also features sacred works by Michael Malm, Albin Veselka, and Jeff Hein, among others.
Interior Features
The interior of the Elko Nevada Temple showcases brass frosted glass light fixtures that provide a warm ambiance. Doors are crafted from sapele wood, with brass hardware adding to the elegance of the House of the Lord. The exterior doors also demonstrate a commitment to quality by being made of brass.
The railings around the baptismal font are fashioned from brass, further highlighting the attention to detail in the House of the Lord’s design.
Conclusion
Once dedicated, the Elko Nevada Temple became the northernmost temple in Nevada and holds a significant role in the larger community, covering approximately 46.5% of the state’s area across six counties. This dedication marked a historical moment, as it was the first time since 1888 that a House of the Lord was dedicated during a period of apostolic interregnum.
The Elko Nevada Temple stands as a testament to architectural beauty and cultural significance, serving as a spiritual haven in the region.