Monitor Valley Road

Trail Overview

Monitor Valley Road is a quintessential Nevada thoroughfare, acting as the high-speed "main street" for one of the most expansive and scenic basins. This wide, well-maintained gravel road stretches for miles, offering a rhythmic driving experience as it follows the long, rolling undulations of the valley floor. To the east and west, you are flanked by the towering peaks of the Monitor and Toquima ranges, providing a constant and dramatic backdrop to your journey. The drive is as much about the wildlife as it is about the destination. The Monitor Valley is a stronghold for Nevada's most iconic species; Pronghorn Antelope racing across the flats and large bands of wild mustangs grazing near the roadside. As you head south, the road eventually transitions into Belmont Road, carrying you directly into the legendary ghost town of Belmont. While the road is smooth and fast, its sheer scale provides a profound sense of isolation and adventure, serving as the ultimate "launchpad" to reach dozens of technical canyon loops and hidden springs. This is active cattle country. Despite the road's width, livestock frequently wander across the track. Maintain a safe speed to allow for sudden stops, especially at night. Expect zero cell service for the duration of this long trek. The vastness of the valley ensures you are well beyond the reach of any towers. Download offline maps before leaving Tonopah or Austin.

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Difficulty

While the main road is wide and smooth, use extreme caution near the edges. The shoulders drop off quickly and consist of very soft, silty soil. Pulling too far off to the side can easily lead to a vehicle getting "sucked in" or stuck in the soft shoulder. Suitable for all vehicles, including 2WD sedans, heavy adventure vans, and large overland trailers.

History

The Monitor Valley is one of the longest and most historically significant valleys in Nevada. For thousands of years, it was a vital seasonal home for the Western Shoshone, who utilized the valley's diverse resources. In the 1860s and 70s, this road was the primary freight and stagecoach line connecting the silver boomtown of Belmont to the rest of the world. Heavy wagons pulled by 20-mule teams once carved deep ruts into this same soil, hauling out the silver that built the iconic courthouse still standing in Belmont today. Driving this road is a trip through the very infrastructure that founded the state of Nevada.

Technical Rating

Monitor Valley Road can be accessed by the following ride types:

• High-Clearance 4x4
• SUV
• SxS (60")
• ATV (50")
• Dirt Bike