Famous route

US 50: The Loneliest Road in America

US 50 crosses central Nevada from the Reno and Carson City area to Ely and Great Basin National Park. Towns are far apart, cell service is patchy and fuel needs careful planning.

State: Nevada
Length: 375 to 500 miles, depending on the start
Suggested time: 2 to 4 days
Start / end: Fernley/Carson City – Ely/Baker
Best season: Spring to autumn, check winter conditions

What should you know before visiting US 50: The Loneliest Road in America?

No toll roads expected for a car.

The official guide says eastbound travelers can stock up in Fernley, which has gas stations. It gives no fuel distances, so plan your own stops and refuel early.
Many points along the route are beyond cell service. Download maps and route information before leaving, and carry water and warm clothing.
Campgrounds are listed at Great Basin National Park, Fort Churchill, Cave Lake and Lahontan, and RV parks in Dayton and Baker. Check the operators for opening dates and reservations.

The drive

The name dates from a 1986 Life magazine article about US 50 between Fernley and Ely. The tourism office describes the trip as 375 to 500 miles, depending on the starting point, over 2 to 4 days. Main towns run west to east: Carson City, Dayton, Fallon, Austin, Eureka, Ely and Baker. Stops include Grimes Point, Middlegate (a historic Pony Express and stagecoach site), Hickison Petroglyph Recreation Area and Great Basin National Park with Wheeler Peak at 13,064 ft.

Planning

The official survival guide notes that many points are beyond cell service, so download route information first. The official guide mentions motels, restaurants and gas stations in Fernley, and food or lodging in Eureka and Baker. Check services in the other towns before you rely on them. The sources give no seasonal closures, vehicle limits or pass heights, so check the Nevada Department of Transportation for conditions, especially in winter. Wild camping rules were not covered; ask the land managers (BLM, Forest Service) before staying overnight off a campground.

FAQs

Why is US 50 called the Loneliest Road in America?

Life magazine used the phrase in July 1986 for the stretch between Fernley and Ely. The AAA reportedly advised against the drive and suggested carrying survival gear. Today the name is used to promote the route.

Where should I refuel on US 50?

The official guide says eastbound travelers can stock up in Fernley, which has gas stations. Other towns on the route, such as Fallon, Austin, Eureka and Ely, are the likely stops. Distances between them are long, so refuel early.

Can I camp along the route?

Campgrounds are listed at Great Basin National Park, Fort Churchill State Historic Park, Cave Lake State Park and Lahontan State Recreation Area; RV parks are named in Dayton and Baker. Check each operator for season and reservations.