Road Trips from Mesquite, NV
Mesquite is your launchpad for exploring the vast, high-altitude landscapes of Nevada. You've got options ranging from a half-day drive to a full weekend adventure. Several routes offer access to Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument, perfect if you want to add a park visit to your trip. For longer hauls, consider destinations that recommend an overnight stay to break up the drive. The terrain often features high-altitude sections with climbs, so be prepared for some elevation gain on these routes.
Total Routes
6
Shortest
5.2h
With Parks Nearby
6
Weekend trip
Tonopah, NV
5h 11m282.1 mi one way
This 5.2-hour drive to Tonopah is the shortest option that still features high-altitude terrain with climbs. It's a good choice if you want to get out on the road without committing to a full weekend. Unlike some longer routes, an overnight stay isn't recommended here.
Wells, NV
7h 27m384.7 mi one way
Clocking in at 7.5 hours, this trip to Wells is a longer surface road journey. It shares the high-altitude terrain with climbs found on other Mesquite departures. If you're looking for a substantial drive without park access, this route fits the bill.
West Wendover, NV
7h 7m365.8 mi one way
This 7.1-hour drive to West Wendover is another solid surface road option. It also includes high-altitude sections with notable climbs. It's comparable in time to the Wells trip but heads to a different part of the state.
Long-haul ideas
Johnson Lane, NV
9h 48m495.4 mi one way
For a longer excursion, consider this 9.8-hour drive to Johnson Lane. It's one of the routes that recommends an overnight stay and offers access to Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument. This trip includes high-altitude sections with climbs.
Cold Springs, NV
10h 2m517.2 mi one way
This 10-hour drive to Cold Springs is the longest option and is labeled a 'long-haul drive.' It requires an overnight stay and provides access to Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument. Expect high-altitude terrain with significant climbs.
Winnemucca, NV
9h 37m514 mi one way
This 9.6-hour 'long-haul drive' to Winnemucca is recommended for an overnight stay. While it doesn't offer park access, it does traverse high-altitude sections with notable climbs, making for a scenic drive.
Browse by Mood
Tonopah, NV
5h 11m282.1 mi one way
Johnson Lane, NV
9h 48m495.4 mi one way
Cold Springs, NV
10h 2m517.2 mi one way
Wells, NV
7h 27m384.7 mi one way
Tonopah, NV
5h 11m282.1 mi one way
Wells, NV
7h 27m384.7 mi one way
West Wendover, NV
7h 7m365.8 mi one way
Winnemucca, NV
9h 37m514 mi one way
When to Go
Spring
Spring driving conditions are favorable across these high-altitude routes, with potential for enjoying Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument.
Summer
Expect warm temperatures on these high-altitude drives. Longer routes recommending an overnight stay are practical for summer exploration.
Fall
Fall colors might be visible on some high-altitude sections. Cooler temperatures make the longer drives more comfortable.
Winter
High-altitude sections with climbs may experience winter weather. Shorter, day-trip options are more reliable during colder months.
Starting Somewhere Else?
Other nearby cities with their own escape planners.
Ready to plan?
Pick any destination above for full turn-by-turn directions, fuel cost, rest stops, and weather. Or visit the Mesquite, NV city hub for all incoming and outgoing routes.