🫶The International Car Forest🫶
My recent adventure took me deep into the Nevada desert, where I stumbled upon a truly captivating sight: the International Car Forest of the Last Church in Goldfield. It's not just a collection of old cars; it's an expansive, evolving outdoor art gallery where vehicles are stood on end, buried, or painted in vibrant, imaginative ways. I'd seen pictures, but experiencing it in person was something else entirely. From my visit, I learned a few crucial things for anyone planning to explore this incredible spot. First off, it's located on private property, which makes it even more unique that it's open to the public. There’s absolutely NO CHARGE to visit, which is amazing, but they do accept Zelle or PayPal donations (internationalcarforest@gmail.com) and mail-in gifts to help maintain and expand the site – something I'd highly recommend contributing to if you appreciate the art. They also have 501c3 Non-Profit Status applied for, which is great to hear. When you go, remember that this is an active art venue. The signs clearly state, “RESPECT THE ART – RESPECT THE ARTISTS.” This means no climbing on the vehicles, no fires, and definitely no overnight camping. While casual visits and photography are encouraged, commercial photography, videos, parties, and other activities require a permit. It's important to honor these rules so everyone can continue to enjoy this space. I even saw some areas where 'taggers are tolerated,' showing how the art continues to grow and change, but we should always avoid destroying the existing pieces. The desert environment means you should come prepared. Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes, bring plenty of water, and consider a hat and sunscreen, especially if you're visiting in warmer months. The terrain can be uneven, and there's not much shade. Allow ample time to wander around, as there are so many intricate details and different perspectives to discover among the cars. It's a fantastic spot for unique photography, and I spent hours capturing the rusted metal, vibrant paint, and stark desert backdrop. For more detailed history, potential events, or information on specific plantings or tours, their website (www.internationalcarforestofthelastchurch.com) is a great resource. It's an absolute must-see if you're ever in Esmeralda County, Nevada, looking for truly unique artwork off the beaten path!









