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How to Drive to Burning Man

Burning Man takes place at Black Rock City, a temporary city on the playa of the Black Rock Desert. It is a long way from just about anywhere, and other than some small-airplane pilots (and their passengers) and very hardy cyclists, few participants get there without driving or being a passenger in a car, truck or bus.

Things You'll Need

  • Bicycle with light(s) for use once you arrive at your campsite
  • Reliable vehicle that runs under extreme weather conditions
  • Oil drip pan
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Instructions

    • 1

      Print out and keep in hand the Burning Man driving directions, which direct you from Reno all the way into Black Rock City (see Resources below). Regardless of which direction you are coming from, you will need these directions for the final 12 miles from Gerlach to Black Rock City, and you won't be able to get them from any other online mapping service, because Black Rock City only exists 8 days a year.

    • 2

      Get driving directions from any other point of origin by using an online service such as Mapquest or Google Maps, but be sure to enter Gerlach as your destination.

    • 3

      Once you get to Gerlach, refer to the Burning Man driving directions to guide you the final 12 miles to Black Rock City.

    Decide What Kind of Vehicle to Use

    • 4

      Check the Burning Man ride share search page and consider making driver-passenger connections with others to save on funds and fuel (see Resources below). Sharing a ride will also help extend the Burning Man social experience for the length of the drive.

    • 5

      Rent a car at the Reno Airport. Alamo, Hertz, Thrifty and National all have airport service. Be sure to make your reservation well in advance. Be aware that you will drive the car for 2 days maximum, and it will sit idle by your campsite for up to 8 days.

    • 6

      Check the Burning Man RV page if you are considering bringing an RV to the festival (see Resources below). RVs are allowed. They are rather controversial, but the RV page is helpful in breaking down the pros and cons.

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