Enterprise is a census-designated place in Clark County, Nevada, United States with a population of 184 residents as of 2021 according to Wikipedia. It is located approximately 40 miles north of Las Vegas near the southern tip of the Las Vegas Range.
History
The area was first settled in the 1860s by a Mormon colony dispatched from Salt Lake City. It was originally named Enterprize due to the pioneering spirit of its founders. The town served as a waystation for travelers going between Utah and southern California. It provided a place to rest and get fresh horses and supplies.
In 1922, a rare mineral called volborthite was discovered in the area. This brought additional settlers hoping to strike it rich. However, the unstable mineral proved difficult to extract and commercial operations were short-lived.
Today, Enterprise remains a small isolated community. Its economy is based primarily around serving travelers along State Route 168.
Geography & Climate
Enterprise is located in a desert valley bounded by rocky ridges and buttes. The terrain is arid and largely covered in scrub brush. Summers are extremely hot with average highs over 100°F. Winters are mild with daytime highs in the 60s. The average annual precipitation is only about 5 inches per year.
Demographics
As of the 2020 Census, Enterprise had a population of 184 residents. This is down from a peak of nearly 500 residents in the 1960s. The racial makeup is predominantly white. The median age is 57.4 years, significantly higher than the U.S. average due to retirees attracted by the warm climate and low cost of living.
Attractions & Landmarks
One of the most notable attractions near Enterprise is the Valley of Fire State Park. This park, located just 15 miles west, contains bright red Aztec sandstone outcroppings and petrified logs and trees over 150 million years old. It offers hiking trails, ancient petroglyphs, and spectacular scenery unlike anywhere else on earth.
Another point of interest is the Lost City Museum. This museum contains artifacts and structures showing how ancient Pueblo Indians lived in the area over 1,000 years ago. It provides an intriguing look into Nevada’s prehistoric past.
Government
Enterprise does not have its own formal government. It relies on services provided by Clark County. The town is represented by the Clark County Commission District A Commissioner.
Economy & Business
As a tiny isolated town, Enterprise has limited economic activity. The main businesses cater to travelers along Highway 168. These include:
- The Enterprise Resort – A motel, restaurant, saloon, and convenience store for highway travelers.
- Enterprise Trading Post – A gift shop selling Native American jewelry, art, and souvenirs.
- Two gas stations along the highway.
Most residents work in Las Vegas and commute. Major employers in the Las Vegas metro area include Caesars Entertainment, MGM Resorts International, Wendover Resorts, and University of Nevada – Las Vegas.
Parks & Recreation
Outdoor recreation attracts many visitors to Enterprise and the surrounding area. Popular activities include:
- Hiking – Numerous trails wind through the rocky desert landscape with scenic views.
- Camping – Both tent and RV camping are available nearby.
- Rock climbing – There are excellent sites for traditional and sport climbing.
- Mountain biking – Miles of trails and backcountry dirt roads draw cyclists.
- Off-roading – The open desert provides endless off-roading opportunities for ATVs and dirt bikes.
An annual highlight is the Enterprise Elvis Festival held each October. This quirky event celebrates all things Elvis and includes impersonator contests, memorabilia displays, and a lot of fried peanut butter and banana sandwiches!
Education
Public education in Enterprise is managed by the Clark County School District. Due to its tiny population, there are no schools located within Enterprise itself. Students are bused to schools in nearby communities such as Mesquite.
Healthcare
There are no medical facilities located within Enterprise. Residents rely on services available in Mesquite and Las Vegas. The nearest hospital is Mesa View Regional Hospital in Mesquite.
Transportation
State Route 168 is the only major road serving Enterprise. This scenic highway connects the town to Interstate 15 and Las Vegas to the south, and Great Basin National Park to the north.
Enterprise has a small general aviation airport, Mesquite Airport, with a single unpaved runway. There are no commercial passenger flights.
Media
Enterprise is too small to have any local media outlets. Residents rely on media from Las Vegas for news and information. The Las Vegas Review-Journal and Las Vegas Sun are the major regional newspapers.
Notable People
Very few celebrities or public figures hail from Enterprise due to its tiny size and remote location. However, the town does claim the following notable residents:
- Leonard Knight (1931-2014) – Artist who created the Salvation Mountain public artwork near Slab City, California.
- Sarah Winnemucca (1844-1891) – Northern Paiute advocate and author.