Nevada's 'Extraterrestrial Highway' Takes You As Close As You Can Get to Area 51

What is the Extraterrestrial Highway?

The Extraterrestrial Highway spans roughly 98 miles through the stark Nevada desert. Officially designated as such in 1996, the name was a clever marketing ploy to capitalize on the region's enduring connection to UFO sightings and the allure of Area 51. The area has been a hotbed of UFO theories. Think about it, the name alone conjures up images of alien spacecraft, government cover-ups, and maybe even a close encounter of your own.

What to Expect on Your Extraterrestrial Road Trip

Driving the Extraterrestrial Highway isn't your typical scenic road trip. Prepare for long stretches of open road with minimal services and a landscape that, while beautiful in its own way, can feel incredibly remote. Here's what you can anticipate:

• Vast, Open Spaces: The highway cuts through a wide valley surrounded by mountain ranges. The views are expansive and offer a sense of isolation.
• Limited Services: Gas stations and restaurants are few and far between. Make sure your car is fueled and you have plenty of water and snacks.
• Unique Attractions: Along the way, you'll find quirky roadside attractions like the Alien Research Center (formerly the Area 51 Research Center) and the Black Mailbox, a legendary (though no longer black or mailbox) spot for UFO enthusiasts.
• Stargazing Opportunities: With virtually no light pollution, the Extraterrestrial Highway offers incredible stargazing opportunities. On a clear night, the Milky Way blazes across the sky.
• A Sense of Mystery: The overall atmosphere is one of intrigue and speculation. Keep an eye out for unidentified aerial phenomena… you never know!

Planning Your Journey to Area 51's Vicinity

Before embarking on your adventure, it's crucial to be prepared. Here's some essential information to consider:

Preparation is Key: Fill up your gas tank in Alamo or Rachel, the two main towns near the highway. Carry extra water, food, and a first-aid kit. Cell service is spotty, so download offline maps and inform someone of your travel plans.

Respect the Land: This is a remote and fragile environment. Stay on marked roads, pack out all your trash, and be mindful of wildlife.

Understand the Limits: Area 51 itself is heavily guarded and off-limits. Trespassing is a federal offense. The fun is in the journey and the speculation, not in trying to breach security.

Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall offer the most pleasant weather. Summer can be scorching, and winter can bring snow and ice.

Key Locations Along the Extraterrestrial Highway

While the whole highway is an experience, certain locations stand out. Here's a quick guide:

The Enduring Allure of Area 51 and the Extraterrestrial Highway

The fascination with Area 51 and the Extraterrestrial Highway shows no signs of waning. Whether you're a true believer, a curious traveler, or simply someone looking for a unique road trip experience, this corner of Nevada offers something special. It's a place where the boundaries between reality and speculation blur, where the vastness of the desert amplifies the sense of the unknown, and where you can let your imagination run wild with the possibilities of what might be out there. So, pack your bags, fuel up your car, and get ready for an adventure that's truly out of this world!