Stretching 239.5 miles through the heart of Nevada, the Great Basin Highway follows US 93 through some of the most expansive and untouched landscapes in the American West. This state scenic byway carries travelers across vast desert valleys flanked by rugged mountain ranges, offering a raw, unfiltered glimpse into the Basin and Range geography that defines Nevada’s interior.

Along the route, wide-open sagebrush flats give way to dramatic mountain passes, with views stretching to distant horizons in every direction. Watch for wild horses grazing near the roadside, red-tailed hawks riding thermals above the ridgelines, and the subtle beauty of high desert wildflowers in spring. Key stops include opportunities to explore historic mining towns, quiet stretches of public land perfect for stargazing, and access points to some of Nevada’s most remote wilderness areas.

The drive takes roughly four to five hours without stops, but plan a full day to pull over for photographs and short hikes. Late spring through early fall offers the most comfortable conditions, with mild temperatures and long daylight hours. Clear autumn days bring golden light and cooler air that sharpens the mountain views into stunning relief.

Explore Nearby

• Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area — Public Land in Nevada
• Mount Wilson Wilderness — Public Land in Arizona
• Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort State Historic Park — State Park in Nevada
• Ice Age Fossils State Park — State Park in Nevada
• Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument Dark Sky Park — Dark Sky Site in Arizona