The Loneliest Highways in the United States
The vast landscapes of America offer some of the most breathtaking drives, often stretching over hundreds of miles without a single gas station or town in sight. From the deserts of Nevada to the frozen tundra of Alaska, some of the country's loneliest highways are a testament to the vastness and isolation of the American wilderness.
Longest Stretch with Limited Services
One of the most notable stretches of road in the United States is the 180-mile journey from Kramer Junction in California to Bishop. This route, a mix of US Highways 58 and 395, traverses through some of the most stunning landscapes in the state. Of the 180 miles, the only town you will find is Lone Pine, which is home to only two gas stations. This stretch highlights the isolation that can be experienced even in one of the more populated regions of the country.
Northern Nevada - The Loneliest Highway
Traveling across northern Nevada, the route from southern Reno to the Nevada/Utah state line is often referred to as the "Loneliest Highway in America." In August 2017, a driver reported it as an incredibly isolated stretch, with no other cars in sight for 35 minutes and no gas stations or cell service. The wide open and beautiful desert scenery may be breathtaking, but it certainly puts drivers to the test if they run out of fuel or face unexpected issues.
Alaska's Dalton Highway
Alaska's State Route 11, also known as the Dalton Highway, is one of the loneliest stretches of road in the country. This 240-mile section has no services at all, with no gas stations, restaurants, hotels, or even a Starbucks. This stretch is so remote that it's infamous for its increased risk of encountering polar bears. This 240 miles of wilderness is truly one of the most challenging driving experiences in the United States.
From Fairbanks to Prudhoe Bay
A slightly longer stretch is the route from Fairbanks to Prudhoe Bay, covering about 380 miles. While there is a full-service hospital in Fairbanks and a medical facility in Deadhorse, there are no gas stations along the way. This makes it the longest stretch of highway in America between hospitals, adding an additional layer of concern for drivers, especially in case of medical emergencies.
1970s Interstates
Travel back to the 1970s, and you'll find that even major interstates like Interstate 5 were once vast stretches of desert with no services. In 1972, the nearly 300-mile stretch from just north of Los Angeles to San Francisco lacked any gasoline stations, which was a significant issue at the time. Fortunately, they managed to solve this problem within a year, but it's interesting to note the changes that have occurred over the decades.
US Highway 6 in Nevada
US Highway 6 in Nevada, between Tonopah and Ely, boasts a 165-mile stretch with no gasoline stations. The two ends have large truck-stop type stations that are open 24/7, but the middle of the road offers no services. This stretch is particularly challenging for travelers who might need to stop for a break or to refuel.
Interstate 70 Between Salina and Green River, Utah
Finally, Interstate 70 in Utah presents another challenging stretch. About 105 miles between Salina and Green River has no gas stations, with Salina having multiple 24-hour gas stations at the on-ramp. This stretch is particularly noteworthy due to its remote location and the lack of other services.
In conclusion, the United States has no shortage of long and isolated stretches of road. From the deserts of California to the tundra of Alaska, these routes offer breathtaking views but also present significant challenges for drivers. Whether it's the longest stretch without gas stations, a desert highway with no services, or an icy road with no town in sight, these roads are a testament to the vastness and beauty of the American landscape.