If you’ve lived in Nevada–who’s nickname is The Silver State–for any amount of time, chances are you’ve heard of U.S. Route 50—aka The Loneliest Road In America. Traversing the entirety of the state, it’s one of Nevada’s most famous highways. But did you know that it’s also the oldest road in Nevada? It turns out that there is a ton of fascinating history behind the creation of this highway, and the breathtaking views certainly don’t hurt! For a picture-perfect adventure, look no further than this epic highway and all that it has to offer.

Making its way through the heart of Nevada, U.S. Route 50 is a transcontinental highway that stretches all the way from Sacramento, California to Ocean City, Maryland.
Mobilus in Mobili/Flickr
The stretch that goes through Nevada has famously been dubbed "The Loneliest Road in America" and it's by far one of the most breathtaking Nevada scenic drives.
This iconic stretch of highway may seem endlessly remote in some areas, but you'll find that there's actually a LOT to experience along Route 50.
Ken Lund/Flickr
Starting off with Lake Tahoe's stunning resort communities, you'll then encounter a plethora of mountain ranges, ghost towns, historic sites, state parks, small towns, and so much more.
U.S. 50 was first constructed in 1926, but its history in Nevada goes back way more than that.
Mobilus in Mobili/Flickr
The route was mostly built along the route of the Lincoln Highway—America's first transcontinental highway—which was built in 1913. Before that, the very same route was used by the Pony Express starting in 1860.
This means that driving along U.S. 50 is like driving through Nevada's history. In fact, many of the towns situated off of the highway originally served as Pony Express stations.
Michael Chr/Flickr
For instance, the super remote Middlegate Station is still home to a roadhouse to this very day. Stop here for a burger and take a look at the famous Shoe Tree!

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Another place that was founded by Pony Express riders is the small town of Austin.
Jasperdo/Flickr
Today it's considered a "living ghost town" and it's a little-known haven for travelers. Take in the uniquely small-town atmosphere and be sure to stop by Stokes Castle, an abandoned monument perched above the town.
In particular, U.S. 50 is a must-do adventure for history buffs.
Beau Rogers/Flickr
There is an abundance of historical sites located just off the highway including a myriad of ghost towns and wonderfully preserved destinations like Fort Churchill State Historic Park.
If you're traveling west to east, your adventure will terminate at Great Basin National Park.
james.henderson45@verizon.net/Flickr
Nevada's one and only national park is the perfect place to either start or end your journey on the Loneliest Road in America. It is here that the highway will then enter Utah just northeast of Baker.
The great thing about U.S. Route 50 is the fact that there's truly something for everyone on this historic route.
Don Barrett/Flickr
Adventure, breathtaking scenery, small-town charm, natural attractions, and so much more await. See for yourself and hit up the oldest road in Nevada soon!

Have you ever driven along the oldest road in Nevada? If so, when was the last time and where did you start and stop? What was your favorite part? We’d love to read about your experiences in the comments section below.

Are you looking for more beautiful roads to explore? Then be sure to check out our list of 10 Scenic Drives To Take In Nevada. C’mon, adventure is calling!

If you’re still in the mood for more fun and exciting Silver State adventures, take a look at this video about beautiful Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in America:

 

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More to Explore

More to love about Nevada

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | April 27, 2023

Where can we find lakes in Nevada?

  • Lake Tahoe was formed approximately 2 million years ago and is the largest freshwater lake in the Sierra Nevada region.
  • Lake Las Vegas in Henderson is a 320-acre lake surrounded by 3,592 acres of land.
  • Lower Cold Lake in Cold Lake is one of many of Nevada’s crystal-clear lakes.

Read on to learn more about some of the many other beautiful lakes in Nevada.

Where can we find breweries in Nevada?

  • Revision Brewing Company in Sparks is known for its great brews as well as its innovative can images and logos.
  • The Shoe Tree Brewing Co. in Carson City features some award-winning beers and is an area favorite.
  • The Tonopah Brewing Company in Tonopah not only offers popular beers but serves up great food too.

Read on to learn more about some of the many other tasty breweries in Nevada.

Where can we enjoy scenic views in Nevada?

  • The Ruby Mountains feature beautiful vistas as well as great backpacking and hiking opportunities.
  • The Jarbidge Wilderness is the place to scale the high mountains and canyons for spectacular views.
  • Mount Charleston is high enough at over 11,000 feet that you can’t help but enjoy fantastic views from here.

Read on to learn more about some of the many other places to enjoy scenic views in Nevada.

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