Redlands to Tonopah Road Trip Guide

The route from Redlands to Tonopah spans 480 miles along US-395 and US-6, crossing the Mojave Desert into the Great Basin. This drive passes the geological wonder of the Eastern Sierra Nevada, where the highest peak in the contiguous US (Mount Whitney) looms over the lowest point (Badwater Basin) just 85 miles east.

Historically, this corridor was part of the Old Spanish Trail, used by traders in the 19th century. Today, the drive takes approximately 8 hours without stops, but the landscape demands exploration.

Road quality is excellent on US-395, but US-6 east of Bishop has narrow shoulders and occasional cattle grazing nearby. Cell service is spotty between Bishop and Tonopah.

• Infrastructure Safety: Rest areas every 50 miles; no tolls
• Family Suitability: Great for older kids who enjoy geology and history. Stop at the Laws Railroad Museum in Bishop.
• Pet-Friendly: Most motels along route accept pets; carry extra water.

For fatigue management, take breaks at the following locations:

• Rest area near Olancha (mile marker 60 on US-395)
• Benton Crossing rest stop on US-6 (no services, just a picnic area)
• Tonopah Station Hotel (historic rest stop)

The drive from Redlands to Tonopah is worth it for the dramatic shifts in terrain and solitude. For a family, plan overnight stops at Bishop and Tonopah.

The route traverses the Mojave Desert, transitioning to sagebrush steppe near Tonopah. The Alabama Hills near Lone Pine are a highlight, with eroded granite formations used in hundreds of films.

• Natural Landscapes: Mojave Desert, Alabama Hills, Sierra Nevada foothills
• UNESCO Sites: None directly on route, but nearby Death Valley NP (UNESCO) is a 2-hour detour
• Climatic Conditions: Summer temperatures exceed 100°F (38°C); winter can drop to 30°F (-1°C). Spring and fall are ideal.

Local commerce includes fruit stands along US-395 north of Redlands, selling oranges and avocados. In Tonopah, the historic Mizpah Hotel offers a glimpse into mining-era luxury.

Culinary stops: In Lone Pine, try the Alabama Hills Cafe for hearty American fare. In Bishop, the famous Erick Schat's Bakkery offers sheepherder bread and pastries.

• Best stops: Alabama Hills (photo ops), Manzanar NHS (history)
• Hidden Off-Route: Hot Creek Geological Site near Mammoth Lakes, 20 min detour

Driving on US-395 and US-6 means remote stretches with limited services. Fuel up in Redlands, then again in Bishop or Lone Pine. The section from Bishop to Tonopah has no gas stations for 120 miles, so plan accordingly.

• Redlands to Bishop: 230 miles, 3.75 hours
• Bishop to Tonopah: 250 miles, 4.25 hours
• Total fuel cost (approx $60-$80 depending on vehicle)

The road is well-maintained two-lane highway. Traffic is light, but watch for slow-moving farm vehicles near Bishop.

For best stops Redlands, CA to Tonopah, NV, consider these milestones:

• Barstow (45 min) – Route 66 nostalgia
• Lone Pine (3.5 hours) – Gateway to Alabama Hills
• Tonopah (8 hours) – Historic mining town

Learn more about how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.