Peterson Sorenson
US Route 50 cuts through some of the most remote and beautiful scenery in America. Known as “America’s Loneliest Road,” this highway offers a journey through forgotten towns, historic trails, and breathtaking scenery. So, let’s discover 15 things you might not know about this famous road that crosses 12 states and captures the heart of adventurers seeking solitude.
The Birth of America’s Loneliest Road
US Route 50, nicknamed “America’s Loneliest Road,” spans across the country from Ocean City, Maryland, to Sacramento, California. The nickname originated in a Life Magazine article in 1986, which described the stretch of Route 50 through Nevada as desolate and barren.
Spanning Across 12 States
US Route 50 is no ordinary highway. It stretches over 3,000 miles and crosses 12 states, making it one of the longest highways in the United States. From the Atlantic Coast to the Pacific, Route 50 cuts through diverse views, including dense forests, towering mountains, sprawling farmlands, and vast deserts.
The Loneliest Section
The title “America’s Loneliest Road” specifically refers to the 287-mile stretch of Route 50 that runs through Nevada. Here, the road cuts through remote desert terrain with long stretches between small towns and few signs of civilization. Drivers often travel for miles without seeing another vehicle, emphasizing the road’s isolation and peacefulness.
Historic Roots of Route 50
US Route 50 is a piece of American history. Much of the highway traces the path of the old Lincoln Highway, one of the first transcontinental roads for automobiles in the United States. Built in the early 20th century, it was part of the country’s growing infrastructure to connect the coasts, and today, it’s a reminder of the nation’s pioneering spirit.
The Friendliest Town on Route 50
On the long drive through Nevada’s desert, travelers often find relief in the small town of Eureka. Known as the “Friendliest Town on the Loneliest Road,” Eureka offers a glimpse into Nevada’s mining history. With well-preserved 19th-century buildings and a friendly atmosphere, it’s a welcoming stop on the empty highway.
No Fast Food Chains
Unlike most highways across the US, you won’t find many fast food joints along Nevada’s portion of Route 50. Instead, travelers must rely on the small, family-owned diners and cafes scattered throughout the route. It’s part of what makes the experience so unique—you’re stepping back in time to a slower, quieter era.
Historic Pony Express Stations
US Route 50 runs parallel to parts of the original Pony Express Trail, the famed 19th-century mail delivery route. Several old Pony Express stations still stand along the highway, including in Nevada’s Cold Springs. These remnants offer a connection to the past and remind travelers of how challenging communication once was.
Great Basin National Park
Located near the Nevada section of Route 50, Great Basin National Park is one of the lesser-known national parks in the US. Home to the stunning Lehman Caves, ancient bristlecone pines, and the towering Wheeler Peak, it’s a must-see stop for nature lovers. The park also has some of the darkest night skies in the country.
Population Decline
Many of the small towns along Route 50 have seen a sharp population decline since the early 20th century. Once bustling mining hubs, places like Ely and Austin, Nevada, now have just a fraction of their peak populations. The quiet, sometimes eerie atmosphere in these towns is part of what gives the road its “loneliest” label.
Passport Challenge for Travelers
For those seeking a more interactive way to explore the Loneliest Road, Nevada offers a “Loneliest Road Passport Challenge.” Travelers can pick up a passport at designated locations along Route 50 and get it stamped at different stops, including towns and attractions along the highway.
A Photographer’s Dream Route
The vast, open vistas of Route 50 are a haven for photographers. With towering mountain ranges, endless desert views, and stunning sunsets, the route offers endless opportunities for capturing America’s beauty. The emptiness and vastness of the terrain provide a striking contrast to the busy highways most are used to.
An Old Mining Town With Character
Ely is one of the largest towns on the Nevada portion of Route 50 and offers a rich history as a mining town. The nearby Nevada Northern Railway Museum is a popular stop where visitors can ride vintage trains. The town has embraced its connection to Route 50, celebrating its role in the highway’s lore with local festivals and attractions.
High Desert Wildlife
Despite its reputation for being empty, the areas along Route 50 are teeming with wildlife. Drivers might spot mule deer, pronghorn antelope, wild horses, and golden eagles as they travel through the Nevada desert. These sightings are a reminder of the rugged, untamed wilderness that surrounds the road.
Altitude and Weather Variability
One of the most surprising things about Route 50 is how dramatically the altitude changes as you travel. In Nevada alone, the road passes through several mountain ranges, with elevations reaching over 7,000 feet at points like Austin Summit. This means the weather can change drastically, with snow possible even in spring or fall in the higher elevations.
The End Points
While the Nevada section gets most of the attention, Route 50’s entire span takes you from coast to coast. It starts at the Atlantic Ocean in Ocean City, Maryland, where the boardwalk provides a lively contrast to the quiet desert miles ahead. On the western side, it ends in the state capital of Sacramento, California.
