U.S. Route 50 across Nevada is often referred to as “The Loneliest Road in America.” The nickname originated from a 1986 Life magazine article describing the highway as one of the most remote roads in the country.
For motorcyclists who enjoy quiet roads and wide-open landscapes, the Nevada section of U.S. 50 offers a unique long-distance riding experience through expansive desert valleys and mountain ranges.
This route is featured in our guide to the Best Motorcycle Roads in America.
🔍 Quick Facts
Distance
~409 miles
Elevation
6,000 – ~7,000 ft
Surface
100% Paved
Best Time
Apr – Oct
Skill Level
Int – Adv
Route Overview
The Nevada portion of U.S. 50 stretches roughly 400 miles from Ely to Fallon, crossing multiple desert basins separated by mountain ranges.
Along the route, riders encounter small towns, historic mining communities, and long stretches of highway with minimal traffic.
Because of the road’s remote nature, careful trip planning is recommended.
What Makes This Ride Special
Remote Landscapes
The road passes through large areas of sparsely populated desert terrain.
Open Highway Riding
Long, straight sections offer uninterrupted views of distant mountains.
Historic Stops
Small towns along the route preserve elements of Nevada’s mining history.
Low Traffic Levels
Compared with major highways, traffic is often very light.
Route Highlights
Ely
A historic Nevada town that serves as a common starting point for the ride.
Austin
A small mountain town with roots in Nevada’s mining era.
Sand Mountain Recreation Area
A large dune visible from the highway near Fallon.
Tips for Motorcycle Riders
- Fuel stops may be widely spaced along the route.
- Carry water and plan for longer distances between services.
- Summer temperatures can become extremely hot in desert areas.
Best Time to Ride
Spring and fall generally offer the most comfortable riding conditions. Summer rides are possible but may involve high desert temperatures.
Final Thoughts
Riding the Loneliest Road in America offers a different type of motorcycle adventure. Instead of tight curves or dramatic mountain passes, riders experience wide-open landscapes and a sense of solitude rarely found on modern highways.
More Scenic Motorcycle Rides
If you enjoy riding routes like US-50 — The Loneliest Road in America, you may also want to explore some of these well-known motorcycle roads: