Tonopah to Vegas drive

Question

We are looking at a Nevada trip in September, and travelling from Southern Lake Tahoe to Tonopah, then back to Vegas before flying home. We are intrigued by the Extra terrestrial highway, but wondered if it's worth taking this route back to Vegas? We will have lots of time as the flight back to the UK will be in the evening, so no rush. We're not looking for masses of tourist spots, and quite like the vast open roads, but wondered if there's anything to be gained by taking that route, rather than what would seem to be the more direct (sat nav suggested) route via Rt 95?

Answer

The drive from Tonopah to Las Vegas via the Extra-Terrestrial Highway (Route 375) is definitely an intriguing option, especially if you enjoy the vast, open roads and the adventure of traveling through some unique and remote landscapes. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect from both the Extra-Terrestrial Highway route and the more direct Route 95, so you can decide which best fits your interests:

1. The Extra-Terrestrial Highway (Route 375)

The Extra-Terrestrial Highway is a scenic and remote route that stretches from the town of Tonopah down toward Rachel, Nevada, and eventually connects to Route 93. It’s famous for its eerie, isolated landscape and its proximity to the highly secretive Area 51, which has long been associated with UFO sightings and conspiracy theories. Here’s what you can expect from taking this route:

Unique Experience: If you’re intrigued by the mysterious reputation of Area 51, this route will allow you to pass through the heart of UFO lore. Along the way, you’ll pass quirky roadside attractions like the "Little A'Le'Inn" in Rachel, a UFO-themed diner and gift shop. Even if you don’t stop, the drive itself has a mysterious, almost otherworldly feel to it, with long stretches of empty road and views of the Nevada desert.
Scenic and Remote: The highway offers stunning, desolate landscapes. It’s a great choice if you enjoy the wide-open, minimalist scenery of the Nevada desert. The road is not heavily traveled, so you can enjoy a peaceful drive without much traffic. However, it can feel quite isolated, so it’s best to make sure you have plenty of supplies and a full tank of gas, as services are few and far between.
Not Much for Tourist Stops: While the area has its unique charm, you won’t find many traditional tourist spots along the highway. It’s more about the experience of being on an iconic, remote highway than about sightseeing. If you enjoy solitude and wide-open spaces, this route is perfect. But if you’re looking for frequent stops or towns to explore, this may not be the best route for you.

2. Route 95 (The More Direct Route)

The more direct route via Route 95 is the recommended path according to most GPS devices, and it’s the faster, more conventional way to get from Tonopah to Las Vegas. This route takes you through a mix of small towns and more populated areas. Here's a look at what this drive offers:

Faster and More Practical: This route is about 2 hours shorter than the Extra-Terrestrial Highway, so it’s more efficient if you’re looking to get to Las Vegas quickly. It’s a more conventional highway, with regular access to gas stations, food, and restrooms, making it a more practical option.
Less Remote: Route 95 takes you through towns like Beatty and Amargosa Valley, which are more populated and offer more services. While this route isn’t as unique as the Extra-Terrestrial Highway, it’s still a peaceful drive through Nevada’s vast desert, with more infrastructure along the way.
More Scenic Stops: While it doesn’t have the UFO theme of the Extra-Terrestrial Highway, Route 95 offers some interesting small towns and desert scenery. If you’re looking to break up the drive with a few stops, towns like Beatty and Amargosa Valley provide a few options for a quick detour.

3. Which Route to Choose?

Given that you mentioned having plenty of time and an interest in wide open roads, the Extra-Terrestrial Highway could be an interesting and memorable option for your trip back to Las Vegas. It offers a unique experience with a sense of adventure and isolation that Route 95 simply doesn’t match. If you’re a fan of quirky and remote places or interested in the Area 51 legend, this could be the perfect route for you.

However, if your priority is convenience and getting to Las Vegas with fewer concerns about fuel stops or needing supplies, Route 95 might be the better choice. It’s faster and more practical, with more services along the way.

Ultimately, since you’re not in a rush and have a taste for open roads and unique experiences, the Extra-Terrestrial Highway offers a one-of-a-kind adventure that’s worth considering for your trip. Just make sure to plan ahead, as there’s very little along the route in terms of services, and it can feel very isolated at times.