Nevada is full of otherworldly landscapes that make for fantastic places to explore, but few are as out-of-this-world as the Lunar Crater near Tonopah. Named for the fact that it closely resembles the moon’s actual surface, you’ll be happy to know that you don’t even need a rocketship to visit this unique destination. Simply hop on the Lunar Crater Backcountry Byway, a rugged 24-mile highway that will take you directly to the giant crater so you can admire it for yourself.
Approximately halfway between Tonopah and Ely on Highway 6 is a bizarre natural feature only accessible via the Lunar Crater Backcountry Byway. When you feel like an adventure, hop on this rugged dirt road and see what otherworldly landscape awaits!
The Lunar Crater Backcountry Byway is relatively short at only 24 miles long, but it makes up for it by giving drivers an adventure to remember. Alongside this rugged dirt road, you'll witness an array of natural features that look like they belong on a different planet—like Lunar Crater.
The 430-foot-deep Lunar Crater is truly a remarkable sight. Designated a National Natural Landmark in 1973, seeing this giant hole-in-the-ground firsthand is an awe-inspiring experience in itself. However, it's just one part of the large volcanic field that it sits on!
At Lunar Crater, you can look around and see a myriad of other volcanic features equal in rugged beauty. From other craters to cinder cones, lava beds, and basalt flows, this place definitely has some out-of-this-world vibes.
In fact, the area around Lunar Crater really does resemble the moon's actual landscape, and it was even used as a training site for astronauts on a lunar mission in the 1970s. Here they collected rock samples and tested procedures in full astronaut gear.
The scenic byway passes right by the crater and takes you to several other notable features in the area, as well. Take your time to explore and view the area's rich wildflowers and wildlife. There's so much to see!
Go where few have gone before and check out this incredible natural wonder hiding in the Nevada desert. The Lunar Crater Backcountry Byway gives you a glimpse at exploring another world!
Have you visited the massive Lunar Crater in this remote region of Nevada? This looks like a fantastic place to explore if you like to avoid the crowds. Let us know about your favorite highway for exploring Nevada’s beauty in the comments below!
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