Stargazing Pyramid, Gerlach, Fly, and Black Rock Desert

[some seeing eye]

Our little home named a dark skies destination: (#5)

Check your wildfire smoke maps first though.

https://www.thrillist.com/travel/nation ... ttractions

Driving from Reno to Massacre Rim

It’s pretty isolated out here. But there are some sights to see along the way, because Nevada. From Reno, head east on I-80 until you hit SR-447—otherwise known as the “Burner Byway.” Make a detour to Pyramid Lake, the ancient remnants of the prehistoric Lake Lahontan, an inland sea that once covered most of the massive state of Nevada. It’s a world-renowned fishing destination and the only known habitat for the ancient Cui-ui fish. This is all Paiute tribal land, so take note that permits are required for fishing, boating, and camping.

Further north lies Gerlach, the gateway to Burning Man due to its proximity to the Black Rock Desert (aka “The Playa). At Bruno’s Country Club & Motel, grab some food and a Picon Punch (an artifact of Basque influence in Northern Nevada). Maybe rest here for the night and see for yourself why FiveThirtyEight named Gerlach the “
Gas up in Gerlach, then head north on SR-34 to follow the mile-long “Guru Road,” yet another weird but inspirational outdoor art installation project in the middle of the desert. Not far ahead is Fly Geyser, a six-foot-tall, rainbow-colored mound of mineral deposits that spews hot water five feet into the air. It’s located on private property, but if you want to see it up close, guided tours and nature walks are offered by the Friends of Black Rock High Rock.

Once you step foot in the Black Rock Desert, you will be walking on one of the largest, flattest surfaces in the world—that prehistoric Lake Lahontan, mentioned above? This is its dry lakebed. There is perhaps no greater wide-open sky to stargaze than what you’ll experience right here. Stay the night in the Soldier Meadows Campground, and spend some time star-soaking in the bathing pools formed by dammed pockets along a natural hot springs river.