I Embarked on the Most Extraordinary Road Trip in America

Nevada is reputed to be one of the most paranormally charged regions in the U.S., making it the perfect destination for someone like me, who is inherently attracted to the bizarre and unusual. Reports of ghosts and aliens abound across the Silver State, with many mysterious events occurring along a desolate 98-mile stretch known as State Route 375, or the Extraterrestrial Highway. I was determined to experience it firsthand.

My adventure kicked off in Hiko, a tiny community of just 124 residents. This remote locale is famous for E.T. Fresh Jerky, a quirky roadside store offering 'alien jerky' (which, to my slight disappointment, is actually made from beef) alongside a variety of otherworldly souvenirs. I was amused by a fortune-telling machine resembling Zoltar that depicted the 45th president as an alien, bought way too many mementos, and left my mark on the back wall in silver Sharpie to declare to the universe that 'Tiana was here' before continuing my journey.

Next, I visited a string of increasingly remarkable destinations. The Alien Research Center featured a giant silver Martian outside its gift shop. In Rachel, the nearest town to Area 51, I met a man who had come during the internet-viral Storm Area 51 movement of 2019 and decided to stay. (He claimed he came for the aliens but remained after watching his dog thrive in the open space.)

At times on the E.T. Highway, I felt utterly isolated. There was no cell service, and the endless, featureless terrain—broken only by repetitive lane markings and the occasional creosote bush—was almost hypnotic. Yet every interruption to that monotony—like a replica of a crashed flying saucer or the Black Mailbox, a popular spot for UFO enthusiasts—filled me with a sense of childlike wonder.

Eventually, just as it felt like the road would stretch on forever, I reached Tonopah, hailed as one of the premier stargazing spots in the nation. This town also features the World Famous Clown Motel, showcasing over 3,000 clown dolls, ceramics, and various artworks. It was here that I experienced the breathtaking view of the Milky Way with my own eyes for the first time, just hours before the desert road led me back to Las Vegas the next morning.

Chasing the unexpected comes with its challenges: I've been stranded in northern Iceland, lost in southern New Mexico, and frequently scolded by my family for choosing such remote 'vacations' more times than I can remember.

There are certainly benefits to visiting popular tourist spots. It’s easier to know exactly what to expect after reading reviews and seeing every angle of a landmark. However, venturing into lesser-known areas can reveal surprising treasures and reignite a sense of pure joy, reminding you of the true value of travel.

Naturally, I never encountered any aliens on the Extraterrestrial Highway; if I had, I'd probably be halfway to Saturn by now. Instead, I embraced the opportunity to explore the edges of the world, enjoying the thrill that anything—no matter how unbelievable—could be lurking out there.

Guide to Road-Tripping the Extraterrestrial Highway

The E.T. Highway takes about two days to travel, covering a total distance of approximately 500 miles round trip (around eight hours of driving). I suggest tackling the primary segment between Las Vegas and Tonopah on the first day, staying overnight in Tonopah, and then returning to Las Vegas the next day via a different route.

Day One

From Las Vegas, take Route 93 northwest for 1.5 hours until you reach E.T. Fresh Jerky (12600 US-93, Hiko, Nevada) on your right. You can't miss the array of crashed spaceships outside. The drive from here to Tonopah takes about 2.5 hours, so make sure to stock up on snacks and water for the desert adventure ahead.

Upon leaving E.T. Fresh Jerky, cross the road and continue west on Route 375 to keep your journey going. This marks the official beginning of the Extraterrestrial Highway, signified by the iconic E.T. Highway road sign (📍37.53240° N, 115.23210° W). Just a few minutes down Route 375, you'll encounter the Alien Research Center and, even more intriguingly, the ominous signs indicating the outer limits of Area 51.

The segment between here and your next destination, the UFO enthusiast's favorite spot the Little Black Mailbox (📍37.45700° N, 115.48260° W), might be the toughest leg of your journey. Don’t be surprised if you initially miss it: the mailbox is unmarked on the left side of the road, filled with curious notes from believers.

Next, head over to Rachel, the nearest town to Area 51, and enjoy a well-deserved meal at the Little A’Le’Inn. Not only is the food surprisingly delicious, but the place is often buzzing with fellow travelers eager to chat; you’ll likely hear some captivating stories from other visitors and locals before you wrap up your day in Tonopah, which is another 1.5-hour drive away.

Day Two

While the three-hour drive from Tonopah to Las Vegas is less remote and technically not part of the E.T. Highway, there are still plenty of quirky desert attractions to explore.

Traveling southeast from Tonopah on Route 95, make a stop at the International Car Forest of the Last Church, which showcases artistically stacked piles of rusted, graffiti-covered cars. From there, continue to the burro-populated town of Beatty, Nevada, the gateway to three remarkable sites: the ghost town of Rhyolite, the intriguing Goldwell Open Air Museum, and the expansive Death Valley National Park.

For one last taste of extraterrestrial charm before returning to Sin City, swing by the Area 51 Travel Center: a unique blend of a gas station and, yes, an alien-themed brothel.

Where to Stay Along the Extraterrestrial Highway

Accommodations along the E.T. Highway are limited. In Rachel, Nevada, the Little A’Le’Inn is likely the top choice for UFO enthusiasts, offering overnight lodging just outside Area 51. In Tonopah, the daring may consider spending a night at either the Mitzpah Hotel, known as one of the most haunted hotels in America, or the equally spooky the World Famous Clown Motel. For those who prefer a less ghostly experience, the historic Belvada Hotel is a solid alternative.

Additional Tips for Traveling Along the Extraterrestrial Highway

Always download maps and music before you set off. Cell service can be unreliable for long stretches of your journey. Be sure to save a Google Map of the area to your phone, along with music and podcasts to keep you entertained during the ride.

Stock up on water, snacks, and gas whenever possible. Gas stations are scarce, so make the most of each opportunity to refuel.