The best time to go to Ely is during the late spring and early autumn months, specifically from May to June and September to October. These periods offer the most pleasant weather conditions for exploring the area.
During late spring, the temperatures are comfortably mild, typically ranging from 15°C to 25°C. This is an excellent time for outdoor activities such as hiking, exploring the Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park, and enjoying the scenic drives around the Great Basin National Park. The landscape is also often greener, and wildflowers begin to bloom, adding to the natural beauty.
Early autumn brings similarly comfortable temperatures, usually between 10°C and 20°C, and often less wind than in spring. The changing aspens and cottonwoods provide stunning fall colours, making it a particularly picturesque time for photography and scenic drives, especially along the "Loneliest Road in America," US-50. This season is also ideal for visiting the Nevada Northern Railway Museum without the intense heat of summer.
While summer (July and August) can be warm, with temperatures sometimes exceeding 30°C, it's still a popular time for visitors, especially families, due to school holidays.