Taos to Ely: Epic Road Trip Across the Great Basin

The road from Taos, New Mexico to Ely, Nevada traces a dramatic transition from the Sangre de Cristo Mountains to the vast Great Basin. This route, roughly 750 miles via US-285 and US-50, takes you through high desert, alpine forests, and ghost towns. A little-known fact: the stretch of US-50 across Nevada is famously called the “Loneliest Road in America,” but the journey begins with a climb over 9,000-foot Poncha Pass.

Driving time is approximately 11–12 hours without stops, but is it worth driving Taos, NM to Ely, NV? Absolutely—this route offers some of the most pristine, uncrowded landscapes in the West. For tips on unearthing hidden stops, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Route Snapshot

The primary route from Taos to Ely follows US-285 north to Poncha Springs, Colorado, then west on US-50 through the San Luis Valley, across the Continental Divide, and into Utah. In Utah, US-50 merges with I-70 briefly near Salina, then continues as a two-lane highway across the Great Basin. Fuel stations are sparse, especially on the Nevada stretch (up to 100 miles apart). Always fill up when you can.

• Total distance: ~750 miles
• Estimated driving hours: 11–12
• Recommended breakdown: Taos → Moab (stop 1), Moab → Ely (stop 2)

Fuel Economy Considerations

• Gas prices typical: $3.50–$4.50/gallon (2025)
• Average vehicle range: ~300 miles helps avoid anxiety
• Key fuel stops: Salida, CO; Moab, UT; Delta, UT; Ely, NV

Road Conditions and Safety

US-50 is generally well-maintained but can be affected by winter weather (October–April). Snow tires or chains are recommended for mountain passes. Summer temperatures exceed 100°F in the basins. Always carry water, snacks, and a spare tire. Cell service is intermittent—download offline maps.

For navigating, use route planning tools that identify gas stations and rest stops. The route is suitable for most vehicles, but high-clearance is not necessary.

Long stretches of highway demand careful planning. Fatigue is a real risk on the Loneliest Road. Plan to stop every 2–3 hours. The best strategy is to split the drive into two days with an overnight in Moab. This also allows time to explore Arches or Canyonlands. If you must do it in one day, leave at dawn and expect to arrive by sunset.

• Rest stops: Poncha Springs, CO; Salida, CO; Montrose, CO (detour); Green River, UT; Delta, UT; Ely, NV
• Driver fatigue tips: caffeine, windows down, music, frequent breaks
• Accommodation: hotels in Salida, Moab, and Ely; camping allowed in national forests

Family and Child Suitability

The route is family-friendly with many national parks and interactive museums. The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park has easy trails and visitor centers. The Moab area offers gentle hikes and river rafting. In Ely, the train museum is a hit with kids. For downtime, bring car games because cell service fades. Restrooms are available at gas stations, but some remote stops have pit toilets.

Pet-friendly framework: Most motels chains (Best Western, Super 8) allow pets, but call ahead. National parks require pets on leashes and restrict trails. The desert heat can be dangerous for dogs—never leave them in the car. Carry extra water for your pet.

Culinary Infrastructure

Food options are limited on the Nevada stretch. In Moab, you'll find excellent Southwestern cuisine and microbreweries. In Ely, try the “Cellblock 468” at the Jailhouse Casino or the Basque-style dinner at the Hotel Nevada. Pack a cooler with snacks and drinks. Picnic spots abound, especially along the Colorado River. In Green River, the “Ray's Tavern” serves famous green chili burgers.

For caffeine lovers, small-town diners often have strong coffee. The Starlight Diner in Salida is a local favorite. Hygiene: restaurant standards are high, but in remote areas, choose well-reviewed stops.

Hidden Off-Route Spots

Detour for the Black Canyon of the Gunnison (25 miles south of US-50). Or visit the ghost town of Sego, Utah, a few miles north of the highway. In Nevada, the Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park offers a glimpse of 19th-century charcoal production. The archaeological site of Danger Cave near Wendover (off course) is a National Historic Landmark. Best stops Taos to Ely: Great Basin National Park (near the end) is a must for its cave tours and dark skies.

The drive from Taos to Ely is a masterclass in geological diversity. You start amidst the aspens and granite peaks of the Sangre de Cristo range, then descend into the San Luis Valley—a vast, flat agricultural basin. Crossing the Colorado-Utah border, the terrain morphs into red rock canyons and desert mesas. In Nevada, the landscape opens into the sagebrush sea of the Great Basin, punctuated by mountain ranges like the Snake Range.

• Taos to Salida: winding mountain roads, river valleys, and views of Mount Princeton.
• Salida to Moab: the San Luis Valley, Curecanti National Recreation Area, and Black Canyon of the Gunnison.
• Moab to Ely: Arches National Park (detour), the Colorado River, and the lunar landscape of the Great Basin.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Near the route, you'll find the Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado (a short detour off US-160). Mesa Verde preserves Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Another UNESCO site, Taos Pueblo itself, is near the start. These stops add cultural depth to the journey. Allow a day for exploring.

In Utah, you can also detour to Canyonlands National Park, not a UNESCO site but equally stunning. The Great Basin National Park in Nevada (near Ely) features ancient bristlecone pines and Lehman Caves.

Local Commerce and Culture

Small towns along the way offer authentic Western character. In Colorado, Salida has a vibrant arts district and hot springs. In Utah, the town of Green River is known for melons and diner fare. Ely itself is a former mining hub with a historic downtown and the Nevada Northern Railway Museum. Buy local crafts in Moab and sample fry bread in Taos.

Don't miss the quirky roadside attractions: the “World's Largest Thermometer” in Baker, CA is off route, but the “Shoshone Indian Ice Caves” near Delta, UT are worth a stop. The real gems are the obscure ghost towns like Cisco, Utah—a dusty relic on US-50.