Geocaching
Geocaching on the Extraterrestrial Highway
Welcome to one of the most unique geocaching experiences on Earth… right here on Nevada’s legendary Extraterrestrial Highway (NV375)! Whether you’re a seasoned geocacher or a curious road-tripper; the open desert, quirky stops, and alien lore of this region offer the perfect setting for a high-desert treasure hunt.
A Brief History of Geocaching on the ET Highway
The world of geocaching first collided with the Extraterrestrial Highway in a big way thanks to an ambitious geocacher known as E.T. Highway (real name: Allan Cameron), who established what was once the world’s largest power trail along the 98-mile stretch of Nevada State Route 375.
Originally launched in 2010, the E.T. Highway series included over 1,000 caches, with a new version later replacing it and expanding the count to over 2,000 geocaches. This mind-blowing trail was designed to give geocachers a chance to test their endurance, enjoy the stunning desert landscape, and maybe spot something unexplainable in the skies.
The caches were placed along dirt roads and turnouts just off the main highway, forming a loop that allowed geocachers to collect hundreds of finds in a single day. While the series has undergone changes over the years due to BLM regulations and cache maintenance challenges, a large number of geocaches still remain active - including legacy hides from the original series and new additions from local enthusiasts.
Why Geocache Here?
- Out-of-this-world scenery: Wide open spaces, Joshua trees, red rock outcrops, and star-studded skies.
- Quirky landmarks: Don’t miss the Little A’Le’Inn, the Black Mailbox site, and alien murals in Rachel.
- High cache density: Even after removals and shifts, there are hundreds of caches still active within a day’s drive.
- Community tradition: This route is a bucket list trip for thousands of geocachers from around the world.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Cell service is limited. Download offline maps and cache coordinates in advance.
- Plan ahead. Bring water, fuel, snacks, and extra log sheets or pencils.
- Drive cautiously. Some caches are located on unpaved roads. High-clearance vehicles are recommended.
- Respect the land. Follow Leave No Trace principles and be mindful of wildlife and historic areas.
- Check recent logs. Some caches may be archived, so it’s a good idea to check recent activity on Geocaching.com.
Resources and Links
- Official Geocaching Website – Sign up for free and search for caches by map or name.
- Map of Active ET Highway Caches – Explore caches along the highway (link may need adjusting based on exact map view).
- Little A’Le’Inn – A great place to rest, grab a bite, and trade geocaching stories.
- BLM Nevada – Check for updates on land access, road conditions, and camping info.
- Facebook Group: Geocaching Nevada – Chat with other geocachers, get local tips, and share your finds.