| Document and Entity Information | Dec. 30, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Dec. 30, 2020 |
| Entity Registrant Name | THE GOLDFIELD CORPORATION |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000042316 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 1-7525 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 88-0031580 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 1684 West Hibiscus Blvd. |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Melbourne |
| Entity Address, State or Province | FL |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 32901 |
| City Area Code | 321 |
| Local Phone Number | 724-1700 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, par value $0.10 per share |
| Trading Symbol | GV |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSEAMER |
| Current Fiscal Year End Date | --12-31 |
