Bishop to Ely: Ultimate Nevada Desert Road Trip Guide

This route from Bishop, California to Ely, Nevada covers roughly 400 miles along US-6 and US-50, earning the nickname 'The Loneliest Road in America.' You'll traverse the White Mountains, cross the Nevada border, and pass through vast basins and ranges. The drive takes about 6-7 hours without stops, but plan for a full day to absorb the surreal landscapes.

Historically, this corridor followed the Pony Express route and later the Lincoln Highway. One quirky fact: in Ely, the Nevada Northern Railway Museum houses a 1909 steam locomotive that starred in the movie 'The Sting.'

Fuel stations are sparse; fill up in Bishop (several options) and again in Tonopah (around mile 160). Between Tonopah and Ely, the next reliable gas is in Ely itself, so plan accordingly. Cell service is patchy, especially through the Monitor Valley and around the White Pine Range. Download offline maps and consider a satellite messenger.

Road quality on US-6 and US-50 is generally good, but watch for gravel trucks and wildlife, especially at dawn/dusk. Summer temperatures often exceed 100°F in the valleys, while winter brings snow and ice, particularly over the 7,000-foot passes.

• Fuel stops: Bishop (multiple), Tonopah (Safeway gas), Ely (several)
• Rest areas: None official between Tonopah and Ely; use pull-offs at scenic viewpoints
• Accommodation: Bishop has motels and inns; Tonopah has historic hotels; Ely offers budget chains

West of Tonopah, the Monte Cristo Range offers volcanic hills and wild mustangs. Further east, the Currant Mountain Wilderness provides pinyon-juniper forests and secluded hiking. For a deeper dive into planning off-the-beaten-path stops, check out how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Local commerce along the route includes the historic Mizpah Hotel in Tonopah, built in 1907, and the Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park near Ely, showcasing 19th-century charcoal production. In Ely, the Northern Nevada Railway offers train rides through the ghost town of Ruth.

• Natural highlights: Boundary Peak (highest in NV), White Mountains bristlecone pines
• Cultural stops: Tonopah Historic Mining Park, Garnet Hill rockhounding area
• UNESCO sites: None directly on route, but nearby (e.g., Yosemite National Park is to the west)

Road safety depends on weather and visibility. In summer, carry extra water and sunscreen; in winter, chains may be required over the passes. The route is suitable for families with children if you plan frequent breaks. Pet-friendly stops include the BLM lands near Currant, where dogs can roam (on leash).

Fatigue management is crucial on this long, straight road. Break every 2 hours at pull-offs like the Hot Creek Geological Site near Bishop or the Little Antelope Summit viewpoint. For a substantial rest, stop in Tonopah at the Tonopah Brewing Company for locally crafted beer and pub fare. Culinary options are limited; pack snacks and picnic supplies.

• Family stops: Tonopah's Central Nevada Museum, Ely's Renaissance Village
• Pet-friendly: Many BLM lands allow off-leash; carry water bowls
• Rest zones: Use designated picnic areas at Lund (near Ely) or at the Ward Mountain Scenic Overlook