The Loneliest Road in America

Jody Vandergriff

If you are a fan of long and serene drives, then the Nevada portion of Route 50 is the perfect destination. Known as the "Loneliest Road in America," this 287-mile stretch of road offers a unique and unforgettable road trip experience. The road may be long and barren, but it boasts some stunning natural beauty and historic landmarks, including ghost towns and mining communities that are frozen in time. Be cautious while embarking on this journey and ensure to fill the tank at every gas station along the way, as you never know when the next one will appear. Welcome to the Loneliest Road in America!

Tags: Roadtripping, Loneliest Road in America

  • Cave Lake State Park in Ely, United States

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      A visit to Cave Lake State Park during a road trip along the Loneliest Road in America is a must for nature lovers. The park is located at the base of the scenic Ruby Mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as fishing, camping, hiking, and boating on the lake. It is an excellent opportunity to take a break from the long drive and explore the natural beauty of the area.

  • Berlin in Austin, United States

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      Berlin is a well-preserved ghost town located in the Reese River Valley, along the Loneliest Road in America. Visitors can take a step back in time and explore the town's many historic buildings, including a schoolhouse, a church, and several homes. The town also has several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding valley. Berlin is a popular destination for ghost town enthusiasts and history buffs, and is a must-see for anyone traveling the Loneliest Road. Additionally, the town is a popular spot for photography and has been featured in several films and television shows.

  • Reese River Valley in Nevada, United States

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      Reese River Valley is a beautiful and remote valley located along the Loneliest Road in America. Visitors can explore the valley's stunning scenery and historic sites by taking a scenic drive or hiking one of the many trails in the area. The valley is home to several ghost towns, including the well-preserved town of Berlin. Additionally, there are several hot springs located in the area for those seeking a relaxing soak in nature. Reese River Valley offers a unique and unforgettable experience in the heart of the Nevada wilderness, and is a must-see for anyone traveling the Loneliest Road.

  • Hickison Petroglyph Recreation Area in Austin, United States

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      Hickison Petroglyphs is a fascinating and remote site along the Loneliest Road in America that offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the ancient peoples who once inhabited the area. The petroglyphs, which are thought to be thousands of years old, are etched into the rocks and depict a variety of animals, shapes, and symbols. Visitors can take a short hike to the site and view the petroglyphs up close, or simply admire them from a distance.

  • Spencer Hot Springs in Nevada, United States

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      Spencer Hot Springs is a remote and peaceful natural wonder located along the Loneliest Road in America. The hot springs are tucked away in the mountains near the town of Austin, Nevada, and offer a perfect spot to relax and soak in the warm water after a long day of driving. The hot springs are known for their stunning views of the surrounding valley and the nearby Toiyabe Range. Visitors can enjoy camping nearby or take a day trip to the springs to enjoy a dip in the warm waters. The road leading to the springs is unpaved and can be rough, so visitors should be prepared with appropriate vehicles and equipment.

  • Ely in Nevada, United States

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      Ely is a charming town located along the Loneliest Road in America, and is a popular destination for travelers looking to explore the region's unique history and natural beauty. The town is home to a variety of attractions, including the Nevada Northern Railway Museum, where visitors can take a historic train ride through the scenic countryside. The town's historic downtown area is also worth exploring, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and museums. Ely is also a great jumping off point for the Great Basin National Park offering hiking, camping, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visitors can also explore the area's mining history at sites like the Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park and the Hotel Nevada Gambling Hall.

  • Eureka in Nevada, United States

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      The Loneliest Road in America passes through the town of Eureka, a small town located in central Nevada, with a population of just over 600 people. The town was founded in the 1860s as a mining boomtown, and many of the original buildings from that era still stand today, giving the town a unique historic charm. In Eureka, you can visit the Eureka Sentinel Museum, which is housed in the former offices of the Eureka Sentinel newspaper. The museum has exhibits on local mining history, as well as displays on the town's early days as a frontier settlement. There is also the Eureka Opera House, which was built in 1880 and recently restored. The Opera House still hosts a variety of performances throughout the year.

  • Middlegate Station in Nevada, United States

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      Middlegate Station, located on the Loneliest Road in America, is a unique roadside stop with a rich history. The station has been serving travelers for over a century and is known for its famous "Monster Burger", a massive two-pound burger that's become a rite of passage for many road trippers. Visitors can also explore the station's museum, which features exhibits on the area's mining and ranching history, or spend the night in one of the station's cozy cabins.

  • Grimes Point Archaeological Area in Nevada, United States

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      Grimes Point Archeological Area, situated on the Loneliest Road in America, offers visitors a glimpse into the prehistoric culture of the Great Basin region. The area contains a number of petroglyphs and rock art sites, some of which date back over 8,000 years. Visitors can explore the site on foot via a number of hiking trails, and learn more about the area's history and geology at the on-site museum.

  • Carson City in Nevada, United States

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      Carson City, the capital of Nevada, is located just off the Loneliest Road in America and offers visitors a great blend of history and outdoor adventure. Visitors can start at the Nevada State Capitol Building, where they can take a guided tour and learn about the state's legislative process. The Nevada State Museum is another must-visit attraction, featuring exhibits on the state's mining history and indigenous cultures. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby Sierra Nevada mountains, with opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and skiing. For those looking to relax, the Carson Hot Springs offers natural hot springs soaking and spa treatments. Finally, the Nevada State Railroad Museum offers a unique glimpse into the history of transportation in the West, with train rides and exhibits on the history of the Virginia & Truckee Railroad.

  • Austin in Nevada, United States

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      Austin is a small town located on the Loneliest Road in America, and it's a great place to stop and explore on a road trip. The town has a rich mining history, and visitors can learn more about it at the Stokes Castle, a historic stone mansion that offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. The town is also home to the International Hotel, a historic building that once served as a stagecoach stop and now houses a museum and gift shop. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore nearby Hickison Petroglyphs Recreation Area, which features ancient rock art and hiking trails. Austin is also home to some great restaurants and cafes, including the historic International Cafe, which has been serving up homestyle meals for over 100 years. Finally, the town's annual Austin Fly-In event draws aviation enthusiasts from around the country to watch vintage planes take to the skies.

  • McGill Drugstore Museum in Nevada, United States

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      The McGill Drugstore Museum is a fascinating stop along the Loneliest Road in America, located in the small town of McGill, Nevada. The museum is housed in the historic McGill Drugstore, which dates back to the early 20th century and is now a restored time capsule of American drugstore culture. Visitors can browse the shelves stocked with vintage medicines, toiletries, and other curiosities, and learn about the history of pharmacy and medicine in the West. The museum also features exhibits on local mining history, with artifacts and photos dating back to the town's early days as a copper mining hub. In addition to the museum, visitors can explore the town of McGill and nearby ghost towns, or take a scenic drive through the beautiful Great Basin National Park, just a short distance away.

  • Reno in Nevada, United States

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      Reno is a lively city located off the Loneliest Road in America, and it's a great place to stop and explore on a road trip. Visitors can try their luck at one of the many casinos or enjoy the city's thriving arts and culture scene, with galleries, museums, and theaters showcasing local talent. Reno is also a gateway to some of Nevada's most beautiful natural areas, including Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities in the nearby wilderness areas. Finally, Reno is famous for its food and drink scene, with a wide range of restaurants, breweries, and distilleries serving up local specialties and craft drinks. Plan 2-3 days to enjoy all that Reno has to offer.

  • Stokes Castle in Nevada, United States

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      Stokes Castle, located off the Loneliest Road in America, is a unique and historic stop that's worth a visit. The castle was built in the early 20th century as a summer home for a wealthy businessman, and is now a popular attraction for its stunning architecture and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore the castle's grounds and learn about its history through exhibits and interpretive signs. The castle is also a great spot for photography, with its distinctive stone facade and scenic views. Nearby, visitors can explore the historic town of Austin or take a scenic drive through the surrounding Great Basin landscape.

  • Sand Mountain in Nevada, United States

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      Sand Mountain, located off the Loneliest Road in America, is a unique and impressive natural wonder that's definitely worth a visit. This massive sand dune rises up over 600 feet high and covers an area of more than 4,000 acres, making it one of the largest sand dunes in Nevada. Visitors can hike to the top of the dune and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, or try their hand at sandboarding or other outdoor activities. The area is also home to a variety of desert wildlife, including lizards, snakes, and birds of prey. Nearby, visitors can explore the historic town of Fallon or the beautiful Lahontan Reservoir, which offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming.

  • Pony Express Historical Marker: Riverbed Station, United States

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      The Pony Express Historical Marker, located off the Loneliest Road in America, is a must-see for history buffs and anyone interested in the Wild West. This historic site commemorates the Pony Express, a legendary mail delivery service that operated in the mid-19th century, carrying mail across the country in record time. The marker features exhibits and interpretive signs that tell the story of the Pony Express and its riders, who braved harsh conditions and dangerous terrain to deliver the mail. Visitors can also explore the surrounding desert landscape, which has changed little since the days of the Pony Express. Nearby, visitors can explore the historic towns of Eureka and Austin, or take a scenic drive through the Great Basin National Park.

  • Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park in Nevada, United States

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      Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park, located off the Loneliest Road in America, is a hidden gem that's definitely worth a visit. The park features six massive beehive-shaped ovens, which were built in the late 19th century to produce charcoal for use in the nearby mines. Visitors can explore the ovens and learn about their history through exhibits and interpretive signs. The park is also a great spot for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing, with opportunities to see deer, elk, and other wildlife. Nearby, visitors can explore the historic town of Ely or the beautiful Lehman Caves in the Great Basin National Park.

  • Great Basin National Park in Nevada, United States

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      Great Basin National Park, located off the Loneliest Road in America, is a stunning and unique destination that's definitely worth a visit. The park is home to the Lehman Caves, a spectacular underground cavern system with a variety of intricate formations and unique wildlife. Visitors can explore the caves on guided tours, which offer a fascinating glimpse into the park's geology and history. The park is also a great spot for hiking, with trails ranging from easy nature walks to strenuous backcountry treks. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and may even spot wildlife such as bighorn sheep, marmots, and mountain lions. At night, the park offers some of the darkest skies in the country, making it a popular spot for stargazing and astronomy. Nearby, visitors can explore the historic towns of Ely and Baker or visit the Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park. Overall, Great Basin National Park is a must-see destination for anyone traveling the Loneliest Road in America.

  • Hotel Nevada & Gambling Hall in Nevada, United States

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      The Hotel Nevada Gambling Hall is a popular destination located along the Loneliest Road in America. The historic hotel was built in the early 20th century and has been beautifully restored, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's mining history. The gambling hall offers a variety of games, including slot machines, blackjack, and poker, and visitors can enjoy live entertainment and a cozy bar. The hotel's rooms are comfortable and charming, with antique furnishings and modern amenities. The town of Ely, where the hotel is located, is also home to a variety of other attractions, including the Nevada Northern Railway Museum and the Great Basin National Park, making it a must-see destination for anyone traveling the Loneliest Road.

  • Nevada Northern Railway Museum in Nevada, United States

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      The Nevada Northern Railway Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling the Loneliest Road in America. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the area's rich mining history, with historic trains and buildings that have been beautifully preserved. Visitors can take a scenic train ride through the rugged countryside, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The museum also hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including train robberies and Christmas-themed rides. The museum is located in the town of Ely, which is also home to a variety of other attractions, including the Great Basin National Park and the Hotel Nevada Gambling Hall.