Anyway, last year I did the stretch of the route from the store in Empire to BRC unsupported without any real issues, despite all the WTF mistakes I made (at least I made the over-prepared burner mistake with water and brought more than I needed for the ride plus the entire week). This year I've already learned a lot of the what not to do. It was definitely a high point of last year for me and so I'd like to start a bit further away make a few days (er, dawn/dusk) trip to the burn.
Does anyone know of a good route, especially through the desert parts before Gerlach? (Once I reach Gerlach, I'm good.) I'm pretty flexible which direction I come in from (preferring to weigh safety, feasibility, and the occasional town/car (just in case) a bit above directness), though I'd love to come in from Lassen if possible because it would be an excellent side trip on my way. I'm pretty certain that I'll have an early pass again this year, so traffic is less of an issue than during the event. Unless other cyclists think it's truly the best route, I'd like to avoid the first stretch of Pyramid Lake because it doesn't feel very safe to me. (I trust my ability to survive in desert more than I trust cars not to hit me I guess.) I'd like to stop in Gerlach rather than just blow right on through. (I'm a sucker for running water and beds.)
Anyway, all suggestions for routes are much appreciated. Also, if you've done this and are want to give me other hints and stuff, I'm all ears. Thanks!
, but I figure we're all a little/a lot crazy if we're into the burn culture. We've got friends/family going who can help us by carrying in water and supplies so I'm assuming that will help with part of the adventure. 
