Did you know there is a place in Nevada that closely resembles the moon’s surface? Not many people are aware of this massive crater that looks like something straight from another world. You can’t help but feel like you’re in a sci-fi movie while exploring it. If you’ve ever wanted to live out your dream of being an astronaut, this is your chance. Keeping scrolling for more information about Nevada’s one-of-a-kind Lunar Crater.
There's a region about halfway in between Tonopah and Ely where the landscape is vast and seemingly endless. You can't help but feel incredibly small as you drive through this massive expanse of desert.
However, hiding in this part of the desert is a natural wonder that is worth the long drive. It can be found off of the unpaved Lunar Crater Back Country Byway. The area is marked with a BLM signpost and from there it's around an 8 mile drive to the lunar landscape.
Soon, the 400-acre crater will come into view. It's an awe worthy sight that goes beyond anything that words can explain. The crater is about 430 feet deep and is the highlight of a volcanic field that extends for over 100 square miles.
The crater is designated as a National Natural Landmark. The geologic term for this natural wonder is a "maar". A maar is a shallow, broad crater that is formed by an explosive eruption that occurs when groundwater comes into contact with lava.
Although it may not be an actual "lunar crater", it definitely has a lot in common with the moon's surface. NASA even selected it as a training site to prepare astronauts for the Apollo Moon missions.
The astronaut trainees would wear chest-mounted cameras as they explored the crater's surface and practiced collecting rock samples. It may not be the actual moon, but if it's good enough for astronauts then it's close enough!
Keep in mind when visiting Lunar Crater how isolated this area is. The remoteness is what makes this place such a unique and bewildering destination. Tonopah is the closest town and it's still approximately 80 miles away, so come prepared for any situation.
The east rim of the crater is considered to be the best viewpoint of the crater and the surrounding buttes, ridges, and lava flows. With almost no chance of coming across anyone else, it's the perfect place to bask in the desert's blissful solitude.
Ready for your journey to the moon? Be sure to embark with plenty of food, water, and a full tank of gas. You'll find the Lunar Crater about 75 miles east from Tonopah along Highway 6.
Have you visited the Lunar Crater before? Want more of Nevada’s natural attractions? Take a look at The Ultimate Nevada Natural Wonders Road Trip for a getaway you’ll always remember.
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