The Most Isolated Road in America: An Expedition Along Nevada’s Historic and Picturesque Highway 50
Traversing the core of Nevada, U.S. Route 50 has secured the striking moniker “The Most Isolated Road in America.” However, don’t be tricked by the title—this 287-mile segment is anything but desolate. Filled with history, stunning natural landscapes, quirky roadside delights, and lively small communities, Nevada’s Highway 50 is a road trip enthusiast’s paradise. Once an essential path for the Pony Express and subsequently the Lincoln Highway—the first coast-to-coast highway—this route stands as a living archive of the American West.
In 1986, Life Magazine notoriously critiqued this stretch of road, cautioning travelers about its barrenness and scarcity of attractions. Nevertheless, experienced explorers understand otherwise. With its expansive skies, historic mining towns, ancient rock art, and geothermal hot springs, the Most Isolated Road provides an extraordinary and memorable experience. Here’s your definitive guide to navigating Nevada’s Highway 50 from east to west.
Great Basin National Park: A Desert Haven
Your adventure commences near the Utah border in Baker, the gateway to Great Basin National Park. This underappreciated treasure is among the least frequently visited national parks in the contiguous U.S., yet it features some of the most varied landscapes—from ancient bristlecone pine forests to the Lehman Caves and the snow-crowned Wheeler Peak.
Top Activities:
– Lehman Caves: Join a ranger-led expedition through spectacular limestone caverns adorned with rare formations like cave shields and soda straws.
– Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive: Climb to 10,000 feet for breathtaking vistas and entry to alpine trails.
– Bristlecone-Alpine Lakes Trail: Hike to witness 5,000-year-old trees and one of North America’s southernmost glaciers.
– Stargazing: As an International Dark Sky Park, Great Basin presents unmatched views of the Milky Way and distant celestial bodies.
Ely: A Railroad Community with Cultural Vibrancy
Around 60 miles west lies Ely, a former mining boomtown transformed into a cultural center. Renowned for its bright mural walk and historic railroad, Ely presents an unexpected blend of art, history, and outdoor excitement.
Must-See Attractions:
– Northern Nevada Railway: Take a ride on a century-old steam engine through picturesque desert scenery.
– Ely Renaissance Village: Discover restored homes that reflect the town’s multicultural legacy.
– Mural Walk: Explore over 20 murals narrating the story of Ely’s past and present.
– OHV Adventures: Rent an off-road vehicle to navigate the nearby BLM lands.
Eureka: The Most Welcoming Town on the Most Isolated Road
Next comes Eureka, an enchanting town that once rivaled Virginia City in mining production. Nowadays, it is recognized for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and friendly ambiance.
Highlights Not to Miss:
– Eureka Opera House: A beautifully revitalized venue that continues to host performances.
– Historic Walking Tour: Grab a map and explore the town’s architectural treasures and mining heritage.
Austin: A High Desert Escape
Midway along Route 50, Austin is a diminutive town with substantial charm. Nestled in the Toiyabe Mountains, it provides a blend of history, art, and natural marvels.
Key Stops:
– Hickison Petroglyph Recreation Area: Examine ancient rock art from the Western Shoshone indigenous people.
– Spencer Hot Springs: Relax in natural geothermal pools accompanied by views of the surrounding mountains.
– Stokes Castle: Explore a quirky stone tower built in the 1890s as a vacation retreat.
Middlegate Station: A True Roadside Treasure
This historic roadhouse is an essential stop for refreshments, fuel, and enjoyment. Adorned with dollar bills and vintage memorabilia, Middlegate Station embodies Americana.
Nearby Attractions:
– The Shoe Tree: Contribute your own pair of shoes to this roadside legend.
– Free Camping: Set up your tent or park your RV for a night beneath the stars.
Fallon: A Fertile Haven in the Desert
Recognized for its agriculture and wetlands, Fallon surprises as a lush oasis in the Nevada desert. It also serves as a center for birdwatching, distillery tours, and sand dune exploration.
Top Pursuits:
– Frey Ranch Distillery: Sample estate-grown whiskey at Nevada’s inaugural legal distillery.
– Sand Mountain: Hike or ATV across vast dunes formed by ancient Lake Lahontan.
– Grimes Point: Investigate petroglyphs and archaeological sites that date back thousands of years.
– Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge: Observe hundreds of bird species in this internationally acknowledged wetland.
Virginia City: A Diversion Worth Exploring
Just off Route 50, Virginia City is one of the most well-preserved Western towns in the U.S. Once a booming silver mining center, it now offers a rich combination of history, entertainment, and Old West allure.
Key Features:
– Historic Fourth Ward School Museum: Discover the educational and mining history of the town.