Visiting the Black Rock City Temple Safely and Respectfully

The Temple in Black Rock City is a profound gift — a space for honoring, celebrating, grieving, and finding solace. It holds both quiet reflection and joyous connection, from heartfelt memorials to spontaneous weddings. From the moment its doors open, Temple Guardians are there to create a safe, welcoming environment for all. This Temple belongs to everyone. As you enter, embrace the spirit of community, respecting each other, the structure, and the land. We are guests on the ancestral lands of the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe, who have cared for this desert for generations. Honor their stewardship by being mindful of your impact and treating this sacred space with reverence.

Understanding Temple Offerings

Temple offerings are heartfelt expressions of remembrance and celebration — tangible tributes to loved ones, cherished moments, and the connections we share. These may take the form of posters, photos, messages, or other meaningful items. While personal expression can include political or ideological sentiments, fostering an environment of respect and understanding is essential.

You may place offerings on any available surface inside or outside the Temple, up to 10 feet high. Please be mindful not to cover or obstruct existing tributes. If space is limited, Temple Guardians can help you find a suitable spot.

To keep offerings secure in the desert winds, bring your own attachment materials, such as a stapler or sturdy tape. If reaching higher areas, use stable, self-supporting ladders with assistance — leaning ladders are not permitted for safety reasons.

These offerings are deeply personal. Once placed, they become part of the Temple’s shared experience. Out of respect for the privacy of those who have shared their tributes, we kindly ask that you refrain from photographing them. These offerings are not intended for public display on social media or elsewhere without the consent of those who created them.

By following these guidelines, you help maintain a respectful and meaningful space for all who visit the Temple.

Flags and Symbols

Flags and other symbols often hold deep personal and political meaning. While diverse expressions are welcome, we ask all visitors to respect these symbols, regardless of personal views. Desecrating or intentionally damaging any offering, including those with political significance, is not acceptable.

Honoring Loved Ones: A Note on Human Remains

Many come to the Temple to honor the memory of loved ones. While tributes and memorials are welcome, the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe has requested that cremated human remains not be placed or scattered within the Temple or on the playa. The Paiute people, as caretakers of this land, believe that leaving human remains here affects the living spirits of the Black Rock Desert. We deeply respect their traditions and beliefs.

We encourage you to find alternative ways to pay tribute to your loved ones. You are welcome to bring ashes into the Temple temporarily as part of a personal memorial, but please ensure they are removed before dawn on Sunday, in preparation for the burn. Cremated pet remains are permitted as they are consistent with Paiute beliefs.  

No Climbing or Fire Permitted

For safety reasons, climbing on the Temple is strictly prohibited. The structure is delicate and not designed to support human weight. This is also why ladders — unless they are free-standing — are not allowed, as leaning them against the Temple could compromise its integrity.

Similarly, no fire or smoke of any kind is permitted. This includes smoking, vaping, smudging, candles, or incense. The Temple is meant to burn down in a sacred and intentional ceremony on Sunday, and any premature fire could put both the structure and participants at risk.

Preparing for the Sunday Burn: Sunday Closure

The Temple closes to visitors at sunrise on the Sunday before Labor Day to secure the perimeter for the burn. After closure, Temple Guardian Offering Carriers can place offerings on your behalf — ask any Guardian at the perimeter for assistance. You are welcome to view the Temple from beyond the perimeter until the burn, scheduled for approximately 8 pm PT that evening.

Temple Practices for Connection and Respect:

To fully embrace the spirit of the Temple and contribute to a positive experience for all, consider these practices:

  • Share the space with kindness: be mindful of others’ emotional journeys. Respect personal boundaries and offer quiet support.
  • Respect all offerings: every offering has deep personal meaning to someone, and the Temple is a place of acceptance and respect for all. 
  • Capture memories with consent, even for posted offerings: photographing and filming within the Temple is generally discouraged. If you wish to photograph or film within the Temple, always ask for permission. 
  • Protect the Temple’s integrity: refrain from climbing the structure, and please do not introduce fire within the Temple or its perimeter. 
  • Seek guidance from Guardians: Temple Guardians are available 24/7 to assist and can be identified by their bandanas and ID laminates. Don’t hesitate to approach them for information, support, or assistance.
  • Honor the land: Remember that we are guests on the ancestral lands of the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe. Treat the land with respect and leave no trace.
  • Embrace the full spectrum: allow yourself to feel the range of emotions the Temple evokes. Whether you come to celebrate, mourn, or simply connect, be present in your experience.