Embarking on a journey to Ely means venturing into the heart of the Great Basin. This three-day itinerary is designed to help you balance the townâs rich industrial heritage with the stunning natural beauty of Nevadaâs high peaks. Most visitors arrive via a scenic drive from Elko (about 3 hours) or Las Vegas (about 4 hours). As you plan your trip, remember that this is a remote region; keep your fuel tank full and your camera ready for the expansive vistas that define the Loneliest Road in America.
Day 1: Steam Engines and Starry Skies
Start your first morning in Ely by heading straight to the Nevada Northern Railway National Historic Landmark. Spend several hours touring the engine house and taking a ride on a vintage steam train. The sound of the whistle echoing through the canyons is an experience you won't soon forget. After the train ride, grab lunch at a local diner in the historic downtown area and spend the afternoon walking the Mural Tour, which showcases the townâs history through dozens of large-scale paintings on the sides of historic buildings.
As the sun begins to set, head just a few miles south to Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park. Explore the massive stone ovens as the light turns golden against the mountains. The park is an excellent spot for a sunset picnic. Because Ely is located in one of the darkest regions of the lower 48 states, stay after dark for some world-class stargazing. The Milky Way is often visible to the naked eye here, providing a humbling end to your first day in the high desert.
Day 2: The Depths and Heights of Great Basin
On your second day, make the hour-long drive east to Great Basin National Park. It is highly recommended to book a morning tour of Lehman Caves well in advance. These tours take you through spectacular underground chambers filled with rare geological formations. Once you emerge back into the sunlight, drive up the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive, which gains thousands of feet in elevation and offers multiple pull-outs with breathtaking views of the snake range. At the end of the road, choose a hike that fits your ability level.
The Bristlecone Pine Trail is a moderate 2.8-mile round trip that takes you to a grove of ancient trees, some of which are over 4,000 years old. If you have the stamina and started early, the Alpine Lakes Loop offers stunning reflections of the peaks in crystal-clear mountain water. After a full day of mountain air, return to Ely for a hearty dinner. The drive back during twilight is often the best time to spot elk and deer along the highway, so keep a watchful eye for wildlife.
Day 3: Gems, Lakes, and Local Culture
Spend your final morning searching for treasures at Garnet Hill. This volcanic site is famous for the small, dark red garnets found in the rocks. Itâs a relaxing way to spend a few hours, and youâre almost guaranteed to find a few small gems to take home as a souvenir. From there, take a short drive to Cave Lake State Park. You can spend the midday hours hiking the trails that overlook the water or simply relaxing by the shore. The scenery here, characterized by steep limestone walls and clear water, is a stark contrast to the surrounding desert flats.
In the afternoon, head back into town to visit the Renaissance Village. These restored homes offer a poignant look at the immigrant families who built Ely. Before you depart, stop by the White Pine County Museum to see the "Ely Giant" (a large prehistoric cave bear skeleton) and other local oddities. This final afternoon allows you to soak in the quiet, friendly atmosphere of the town before you begin your drive back to the airport or your next destination. This itinerary covers roughly 200 miles of driving locally, so ensure your vehicle is in good shape.
Travel Tips and Logistics
Ely sits at a high elevation, which means you should drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness and apply sunscreen even on cool days. The sun is much stronger here than at sea level. When traveling between sites like Great Basin National Park and Ely, be aware that services are extremely limited. There is very little cell service on the stretches of highway between destinations, so downloading offline maps or carrying a paper map is a smart move. Always check the official NPS or state park websites for any sudden road closures or weather alerts.
Regarding your budget, plan for an average daily spend of about $145. This covers your lodging, fuel for the long scenic drives, museum admissions, and meals. While there are a few fast-food options, the local cafes and historic hotel restaurants provide a more authentic taste of Nevada. If you are traveling in an RV, Ely has several well-maintained parks, but you should reserve your spot in advance, especially during the summer months when the town hosts various events and railway festivals.
Extending Your Stay
If you have an extra day or two, consider exploring further afield. To the north, the Ruby Mountains near Elko offer a different alpine experience with jagged peaks and glacial canyons. To the west, the long road to Reno takes you through several "ghost towns" and historic mining districts like Austin and Eureka. Each of these towns has its own unique character and well-preserved Main Street. Alternatively, you could spend more time in Great Basin National Park attempting the summit of Wheeler Peak, a strenuous 8-mile hike that requires a full day and good weather.
For those interested in the "Loneliest Road" experience, you can pick up a passport at the local visitor center and get it stamped in various towns along Highway 50. This is a fun way to document your journey through one of the most remote parts of the United States. No matter how you choose to spend your time, Ely serves as a perfect base camp for discovering the hidden depths of the Great Basin. The combination of industrial history and pristine wilderness ensures that every day spent here is filled with discovery.
More ways to book Ely
Illustrative · Diego AngelSprinter Adventure Van
Small enough to park at the trailhead, comfy enough to sleep in.
$189/day (estimate)
Direct link · RVshare