Elko Nevada Temple: A New Monument of Faith in Elko
The Elko Nevada Temple stands as the 209th dedicated temple in operation and is a significant addition to the spiritual landscape of Nevada. Conveniently located at 2102 Ruby Vista Dr, Elko, NV 89801, this House of the Lord offers a breathtaking experience for all who seek inspiration in their lives.
LDS Temple News Presents the House of the Lord Elko Nevada Temple
The Elko Nevada Temple was announced to the public on April 4, 2021, by Prophet Russell M. Nelson during the General Conference. This announcement was met with great excitement, paving the way for the temple’s future impacts on the community and beyond.
On May 7, 2022, the groundbreaking and dedication took place under the direction of Paul B. Pieper, signaling the beginning of this monumental construction. Following this, a public open house was held from August 30, 2025, through September 13, 2025, allowing many to explore the foundation of this sacred space.
The official dedication occurred on October 12, 2025, led by Apostle Gary E. Stevenson. An excerpt from the dedicatory prayer emphasizes the temple’s purpose: “May this holy house be a symbol of light and peace and a strength for all eyes that fall upon it.”
Architectural Features
Spanning 5.2 acres, the Elko Nevada Temple features a stunning exterior finish of White Mount Airy Granite stone veneer. With a height of 108.10 feet, this House of the Lord is single-story and built at an elevation of 5,133 feet, making it a prominent feature in the landscape.
The architectural design includes a single attached end spire, while the exterior art glass showcases vibrant shades of orange, yellow, and green. This artistic element prominently features the desert globemallow, a native floral motif that mirrors the surrounding high-desert landscape. Geometric patterns inspired by the Paiute and Shoshone tribes are also integrated into this design.
Interior Design Elements
Inside, the Elko Nevada Temple carries a collection of fine art created by several notable artists. The official collection includes landscape paintings such as “Lamoille Canyon” by Michael Coleman, “Elko Landscape” by David Dibble, and “Autumn Sun — Ruby Mountains” by Louis Heinzman. Additional sacred artworks by Michael Malm, Albin Veselka, and Jeff Hein further enrich the interior.
The interior light fixtures, crafted from brass and frosted glass, provide an elegant finish. The doors, made of sapele wood with brass hardware, enhance the overall aesthetic of this House of the Lord. The baptismal font area features railings made from brass, maintaining the quality and craftsmanship found throughout the temple.
A House of the Lord for Nevada
This temple is significant not only as the first in Elko and Elko County, but also as the third in the state of Nevada. Following its dedication, it became the northernmost temple in the state. Its district covers towns and communities in six large counties, encompassing approximately 46.5% of Nevada’s land area, or 51,389 square miles.
The dedication of the Elko Nevada Temple marks a historic moment, being the first time since 1888 that a house of the Lord was dedicated during a period of apostolic interregnum when President Wilford Woodruff led the dedication of the Manti Utah Temple.
Conclusion
The Elko Nevada Temple stands as a remarkable expression of faith and artistry, symbolizing hope and inspiration within the rich fabric of the Elko community and the state of Nevada. Its architectural beauty, combined with its historical significance, creates an enduring legacy that will impact generations to come.