Introduction
The 400-mile drive from Lone Pine, California to Ely, Nevada along US-395 and US-6 traverses the stark transition from the Sierra Nevada rain shadow to the Great Basin. At 7,000 feet near Montgomery Pass, the road briefly touches the highest point on US-6 in Nevada, a fact often overlooked. This is a journey through America's least populated region, where the next gas station can be 50 miles apart.
This guide answers the questions: how long to drive Lone Pine, CA to Ely, NV (roughly 7 hours without stops), whether it's worth driving (for geology lovers and solitude seekers, absolutely), and what things to do between Lone Pine, CA and Ely, NV. For deeper dives on finding stops, check out how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.
| Segment | Miles | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Lone Pine to Bishop | 60 | 1h |
| Bishop to Tonopah | 140 | 2.5h |
| Tonopah to Ely | 200 | 3.5h |
Natural Landscapes and Local Commerce
Natural Landscapes & Attractions
- Alabama Hills (Lone Pine): Striking rock formations used in hundreds of films. Just 5 minutes west of US-395.
- Mono Lake (near Lee Vining): Tufa towers and saline ecosystem. Detour 20 miles north.
- Montgomery Pass: Elevation 7,167 ft, offers panoramic views of the White Mountains and the Great Basin.
- Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park (30 miles south of Ely): Beehive-shaped ovens built in the 1870s.
Local Commerce & Culture
- Bishop: The Indian Reservation offers date farms and the Paiute Palace Casino.
- Tonopah: Historic mining town with the Tonopah Brewing Company and the Clown Motel (quirky).
- Ely: The Northern Nevada Railway museum and the White Pine Public Museum showcase the region's railroad and mining heritage.
Road Safety, Family Stops, and Fatigue Management
Infrastructure Safety & Road Quality
- US-395 between Lone Pine and Carson City is well-maintained but winding in sections. US-6 from Tonopah to Ely is a two-lane highway with long straight stretches, often with no shoulder.
- Cell service is non-existent for many stretches, especially from Coaldale Junction to Ely (120 miles). Download offline maps.
- Winter (Nov-Mar) can bring snow and ice on Montgomery Pass (altitude 7,000+ ft). Check chain requirements in Lee Vining or Tonopah.
Family and Child Suitability
- Best stops Lone Pine, CA to Ely, NV for kids: Alabama Hills (easy short hikes), Mono Lake visitor center, and the Nevada Northern Railway train rides (Ely).
- Bishop's bowling alley and movie theater provide indoor options.
Pet-Friendly Framework
- Most motels in Lone Pine, Bishop, Tonopah, and Ely allow pets with a fee (often $20-$40).
- Alabama Hills is open to dogs on leash. Mono Lake's South Tufa area restricts dogs to the boardwalk.
- Carry extra water for your pet, especially in summer when pavement temperatures can exceed 120°F.
Fatigue Management & Rest Zones
- Break at Schurz (Tribal Bear pit stop) or Coaldale Junction (gas station with snacks).
- Rest areas: Fish Springs Summit (between Bishop and Tonopah) has picnic tables and restrooms.
- Stay overnight in Bishop, Tonopah, or Ely to break the drive.
Climatic Conditions & Route Aesthetics
- Spring (Apr-May): Wildflowers bloom in the valleys, but passes may have snow.
- Summer (Jun-Aug): Long days, intense sun, temperatures 90-100°F. Drive in early morning.
- Fall (Sep-Oct): Cool, clear days; autumn color in the canyons.
- Winter (Nov-Feb): Snow, ice, and possible road closures. The scenery is stark and beautiful.
Hidden Off-Route Spots
- Hot Creek Geological Site (north of Bishop): Active hot springs and volcanic features. Closed for safety but viewable from the parking area.
- Reese River Valley (off US-50 near Austin): Abandoned mining cabins and solitude.
- Hidden Cave (near Fallon): A remote archaeological site accessible by a 4-mile dirt road.
Route Logistics and Infrastructure
Fuel and Route Economics
- Gas stations are sparse between Bishop and Tonopah (120 miles) and between Tonopah and Ely (200 miles). Fill up in Bishop or Tonopah.
- Gas prices in remote Nevada stations are often $0.50-$1.00/gallon higher than in California.
- Carry at least 5 gallons of water for radiator emergencies in summer.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- The only nearby UNESCO site is Yosemite National Park (3h west). However, the route passes near the proposed Basin and Range National Monument, which contains ancient petroglyphs.
- Ely is home to the Northern Nevada Railway, a National Historic Landmark.
Continue Your Adventure
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to drive from Lone Pine, CA to Ely, NV?
The drive is approximately 400 miles and takes about 7 hours without stops. With breaks, plan for 8-10 hours.
What is the best time of year to drive this route?
Late spring (May) and early fall (September-October) offer mild temperatures and scenic conditions. Summer can be very hot, and winter may have snow closures.
Are there gas stations along the way?
Yes, but they are sparse. Key fuel stops: Bishop, Tonopah, and Ely. Between Bishop and Tonopah (140 miles) there is one station at Montgomery Pass (often closed). Between Tonopah and Ely (200 miles) only one at Currant (limited hours). Always fill up when you can.
What are the must-see attractions?
Alabama Hills, Mono Lake, Ward Charcoal Ovens, and the Nevada Northern Railway in Ely. Also consider a detour to the Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park near Gabbs.
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