Ely to Afton: Nevada to Wyoming Road Trip Guide

The drive from Ely, Nevada to Afton, Wyoming covers roughly 400 miles via US-93, US-50, US-6, US-89, and US-30. This route traverses the remote Great Basin, crosses the Utah border, and climbs into the Rocky Mountains. A little-known fact: near the Nevada-Utah line, US-93 crosses the “Loneliest Road in America” (US-50) at a ghost junction that once served as a Pony Express station. Expect 7–8 hours of driving time without stops, but plan for at least a full day to enjoy the attractions.

This guide answers key questions: what are the best stops Ely, NV to Afton, WY, how long to drive Ely, NV to Afton, WY, is it worth driving Ely, NV to Afton, WY, and things to do between Ely, NV and Afton, WY. For more tips on uncovering offbeat attractions, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

From Ely, the route heads into the Snake Range, home to Great Basin National Park (30 miles south of US-50). The park features Wheeler Peak (13,063 ft) and ancient bristlecone pines. These alpine landscapes contrast with the salt flats near the Utah border.

• Great Basin National Park: Entrance fee $15/vehicle. Lehman Caves tours require reservations. The drive up Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive is 12 miles of switchbacks.
• Delta, UT: Known for Topaz Mountain (topaz hunting) and the Great Basin Museum. Local rock shops sell geodes.
• Provo, UT: Nestled against the Wasatch Range. Bridal Veil Falls and Provo Canyon offer short hikes.

Local commerce includes farm stands in Elberta, UT (fruit in summer) and Dutch oven restaurants in Nephi, UT. In Afton, WY, the main street has cowboy-themed shops and a famous elk antler arch. For unique finds, deviate to the Cleveland-Cliffs iron ore mine near Eagle Mountain, UT – a surreal industrial landscape.

Safety concerns include wildlife (deer, elk) at dawn/dusk, especially in Utah’s canyon sections. Speed limits range from 65-80 mph. In Nevada, open range cattle may cross; reduce speed at night.

• Child-friendly stops: Great Basin National Park Jr. Ranger program, Delta’s aquatic center, and Provo’s Thanksgiving Point (dinosaur museum).
• Pet-friendly: Most Nevada rest areas allow dogs on leash. Clear Creek Canyon in Utah has designated dog-friendly trails.

Fatigue management: Break every 2 hours. Recommended rest zones - Baker, NV (45 mi from Ely); Border Inn at Nevada-Utah line (gas, diner, motel); Scipio, UT (rest area with vending). The drive through Utah’s Sevier Desert is monotonous; music or podcasts help.

The route follows well-maintained highways: US-93 out of Ely to US-50, then US-6/US-89 to US-30. Nevada portions are remote, with limited services between Ely and the Utah state line (about 90 miles). Utah sections near Delta and Provo have ample gas and food.

• Fuel: Fill up in Ely; next viable stations are in Baker, NV (45 mi) and Delta, UT (145 mi). Prices rise sharply in remote areas.
• Restrooms: Rest areas exist at Baker and near the Utah border. Many gas stations in small towns are closed after 8 PM.
• Road quality: Excellent condition on US-93 and US-50; Utah highways are smooth; winding sections on US-89 near the Wyoming line.

Cell phone coverage is spotty in Nevada and Utah’s west desert. Download offline maps before departure. Emergency services are sparse; carry a spare tire and extra water.