Berlin-Ichthyosaur Road
Ghost town meets prehistoric marine giants
Berlin-Ichthyosaur Road climbs through juniper-dotted hills to one of Nevada’s most complete ghost towns, where machine shops, mills, and miners’ cabins remain frozen in time since the silver boom collapsed in 1911. The 14-mile gravel road starts near Gabbs and winds through classic Great Basin country, crossing several cattleguards and sandy washes before reaching Berlin’s weathered buildings. Just beyond the ghost town lies Ichthyosaur State Park, where 180-million-year-old marine reptile fossils—some 50 feet long—lie exposed in an ancient seabed.
Easy to moderate difficulty suitable for most high-clearance vehicles, though the final approach to the fossil site requires careful navigation around loose rock sections. Spring and fall offer ideal conditions, with wildflowers in wet years and comfortable temperatures for exploring. No permits needed for the road, but the fossil shelter requires park entry fees. Dispersed camping available along the route, though bring water and supplies from Fallon or Austin. The combination of mining history and paleontology makes this a unique Nevada adventure—from silver dreams to prehistoric seas.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Easy |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Gravel |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 14 mi / 22.5 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 7200 ft |
| Best season | March-November |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance recommended |
| Nearest town | Gabbs, Nevada |
| Land manager | Nevada State Parks |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Subaru Outback handle Berlin-Ichthyosaur Road?
High-clearance is recommended, so a stock Outback might scrape on rocks and ruts. A pickup truck or SUV with at least 8+ inches of clearance is better suited for the 14-mile gravel route.
Is the road open in winter?
The road is typically closed December through February due to snow at 7,200 feet elevation. Best access is March through November when conditions are dry.
Do I need permits or pay fees to drive this trail?
No fees for driving the road itself, but there's a day-use fee if you visit Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park at the end. Nevada State Parks manages the area.
What's the hardest part of this trail?
It's rated easy overall, but expect washboard gravel sections and some loose rock areas that require steady speeds. The elevation gain is gradual over 14 miles.
Can I camp along the route or do I need to stay at the state park?
Dispersed camping is allowed on BLM land along the route before entering the state park. The ghost town area itself has restrictions, so camp earlier on the trail.