An exhilarating ride over Monitor Pass brings me to Nevada where I head north for some motorcycle camping on the Black Rock Desert playa during a windstorm.
Riding Solo | AZ to BC | Episode 8
Details
- Distance: 231 miles
- Location: California & Nevada
- Start: Markleeville, California
- End: Black Rock Desert, Nevada
- Roads: Robert M. Jackson Memorial Highway (Monitor Pass), US-395, NV-208, US-95 ALT, NV-447
- Conditions: pavement, dirt playa
- Cities: Wellington, Fernley, Gerlach
- Camping: Black Rock Desert BLM
Robert M. Jackson Memorial Highway
I’m preparing to leave California and travel into Nevada by way of Monitor Pass, a paved road that rises to an elevation of 8,343 feet.
Monitor Pass
Monitor Pass was constructed in 1953 and gets its name from a silver mining town.
NV-447
Heading north to Gerlach on Nevada State Route 447, a road that is the primary access route to the Black Rock Desert and site of the annual Burning Man event.
Black Rock Desert
The pavement ends as I head onto the dry lake bed. The Black Rock Desert playa is a harsh and unforgiving place to experience alone on a motorcycle.
Empty Desert Playa
With no shade from the sun I am in a very exposed position. Fortunately, the sun is going to set soon and things will cool off.
Camping on the Playa
I set up a shade structure using my tarp and prepare a cocktail while enjoying this special location. My Hydro Flask container keeps the ice for the cocktail cold.
Food and Drink
I’ve brought some special ingredients to make Triscuit Panzanella, a healthy and flavorful meal in a special location.
Tarp Camping in Wind Storm
I set up my tarp just before a strong wind begins. Fortunately I’ve pitched the tarp in the right direction to protect myself from the wind.