Transportation
The Loneliest Roads in America: Exploring the Solitude of US Highways
The Loneliest Roads in America: Exploring the Solitude of US Highways
For many travelers, the allure of venturing into the vastness of America lies in the solitude and isolation one can find on some of its highways. Taking a journey along the loneliest roads can be both an exciting and eerie experience. In this article, we delve into the solitude of some of America's most desolate stretches, including US Highway 50 in Nevada, which has earned the moniker 'The Loneliest Road in America.'
US 50 in Nevada: America's Loneliest Highway
In January, driving from Reno to Las Vegas at night, I experienced first-hand the desolate beauty of the road. With no street lights and almost no traffic, the darkness and stillness made for a profound sense of isolation. One can truly feel like they are exploring uncharted territories, akin to traversing a parallel universe.
US 50 across Nevada is one of the most loneliest stretches of highway. In parts of Nevada, particularly in the middle, the road stretches dead straight for tens of miles. Despite the impressive desert and basin landscape, the absence of anything else leaves one feeling utterly alone. This feeling is further emphasized by the eerie silence of the road. Some argue that the Dalton Highway, which spans from Fairbanks, Alaska, to the Arctic, is even lonelier, but that is a matter of subjective perception.
Other Desolation Across America
Loneliness by definition can be subjective. What someone finds lonely may not be the same for another person. My own experiences driving long-haul trucks for 55 years highlighted how solace can be found even in the most desolate stretches. That said, here are some other highways that may resemble parts of US 50:
US 50: Loneliest Road in Nevada
By the Nevada tourist bureau, US 50 is famously known as the Loneliest Road. This highway winds through the heart of the desert, offering breathtaking views of the basin and range terrains. The stretches of nothingness can be both awe-inspiring and daunting. Additionally, if you decide to loop back to US 50 from Nevada 375, you will be near Area 51, which adds a layer of intrigue for those interested in conspiracy theories.
US 83: The Road to Nowhere
This highway is often referred to as 'The Road to Nowhere,' though the 'nowhere' it points to is a bit more interesting than it sounds. You'll pass through the small metropolii of Bismarck, ND, Pierre, SD, North Platte, NE, and Dodge City, KS. The stops, however, offer more of a glimpse into the journey itself rather than the destinations. If your goal is to experience the solitude and vastness of America, this highway can be a great pick.
US 2 and US 95: Scenic and Solitary
US 2, stretching from Minnesota to Glacier National Park in Montana, offers scenic drives through the northern tier of the United States. While not as desolate as Nevada's stretches, it provides a mountainous landscape with hairpin turns and adventuresome drivers. US 95, on the other hand, offers a more diverse experience. By taking US 140 in northern Nevada and then looping onto US 93, you can explore a different and equally remote area without retracing your steps.
In conclusion, while US 50 in Nevada is a standout in terms of solitude, the experience of the lonely road can vary widely depending on the individual, the journey, and the destination. These desolate highways offer not only physical solitude but also a way to reconnect with oneself and feel the vastness of America. Whether you're driving long-haul or a solo traveler, these highways provide a unique and unforgettable experience.