Utah-Nevada Border ~ Highway 50

 
The long section of U.S. Highway 50 that runs through northern Nevada used to be a busy tourism corridor before the interstate highways system came to be, but now this two lane road has been relegated to being America's loneliest road. Very few automobiles are seen on Highway 50 on any given day, yet there actually is plenty to experience in these wide open spaces. Fuel, food and water are scarce in these parts, so it is best to stock up to the hilt before taking on a Highway 50 adventure. The Great Basin Desert is a very unforgiving environment, so taking care to not become stranded should be first and foremost. 

The Utah-Nevada Border area along Highway 50 actually will be one of the few highlights when doing the loneliest road in America trip, because there are interesting signs and roadside oddities to see. Some of the dirt side roads are smooth enough for an average passenger car and one goes 20 miles to an active Trilobite Fossil Quarry on the Utah side of the line. Visitors can pry trilobite fossils loose all day long for a small fee, so this lesser known Highway 50 destination is perfect for a family outing. For those who drive a capable 4x4 high ground clearance vehicle, a huge dry lake that extends to the horizon beckons to be experienced near the border. Dirt roads go to an OHV recreation area at the west end of this dry lake and the terrain is so barren that it is like playing in the dirt on the moon. This vast dry lake is also a lanscape photographers paradise at dawn or dusk, so be sure to pack a camera for the ride.

There are many more interesting roadside attractions to be discovered going west on Highway 50 to Fallon, Nevada and all it takes is doing a little research to find an entire week's worth of interesting things to do. Fuel and water management is critical along this section of Highway 50, so making calculated plans ahead of time is the way to go. More Nevada Highway 50 destinations will be featured in upcoming articles, so stay tuned for more adventures on America's loneliest road!
​