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It is a place that has long grabbed the imagination of the public. It is where aliens hang out, the planes of the future buzz the mountains, and government conspiracies are a regular topic for the breakfast table. Yes, Pyrodes would like to turn your attention to that military base from the movies and America’s folklore past: Area 51. Situated a surprisingly short drive North of the Vegas Strip, nestled in the middle of the rattlesnake and motion-censor-camera-infested wasteland that is the Nellis Bombing Range, Area 51 (also called Dreamland, Groomlake, Paradise Ranch, etc and so on) is very much there, active, and beckoning curious travelers everyday. Even though there are no fences, it takes quite the special person to push the limits of the less-than-cheery roaming security forces around this desert airstrip. But, Pyrodes always has had a warm affection for the extra daring traveler. So, with that in mind, let’s check out some pics, video, and a few all important travel tips….after the jump.
The glory days of Area 51 perhaps date back several decades ago to the middle of the Cold War, and the base shows no sign of slowing down in inspiring intrigue. The base consists of a series of buildings, hangars, and a very long air strip that covers the now dried up lake bed of Groom Lake. It is tucked deep in the mountains to hide it from view, except from satellites or the more intrepid of mountain climbers. In fact, it was only in 2003 that the US government even acknowledged its existence, simply claiming that it is a military facility of some sort. But, as always, there is a little more to the story. In its early days, Area 51 was used to develop the now famous U-2 and SR-71 spy planes. More recently, the base is known as the birthplace of American stealth technology, hosting the development of the Stealth Fighter and Stealth Bomber. It is also, of course, the home to the rumored captured alien spacecraft and little green men themselves from the Roswell Incident. Whatever you believe goes on at this desert outpost, it certainly easily captures the imagination of the casually inquisitive and slightly paranoid alike, which makes paying this place a visit all the more attractive.
Rachel, NV Should Be Your Jumping Off Point
For interested travelers, your first stop on this conspiracy tour should start in Rachel, NV, a small town along the Extraterrestrial Highway that has capitalized on its proximity to the government alien coverup. Make sure to poke your head in the Little A’Le’Inn there for some good food and some even better company. Folks come from all around to share their UFO stories and you will find nothing but an open and welcoming audience, no matter what your reason for stopping by. Check out the gift shop, library, and even lay your head down there for the night if you are so inclined. While in Rachel make sure to stock up on tips and water for the journey ahead because the real trip begins from here.
Pack up your car and drive several miles south of Rachel along Highway 375; eventually, you will come upon a dirt road on your right, almost poetically marked with a black mailbox. This point is also a popular spot to hang out at night and monitor the night skies for UFOs that are said to frequent the area. You can grab some snacks and friends and make quite the fun night out of it. But, on with the road trip… After you turn here, follow “Mailbox Road” down to a dirt intersection where you will pick up a path called Groom Lake Road. Turn onto this road and head on down; technically, you are still on state land, not federal military land, but that wil change soon enough. The road is well maintained as it hosts daily unmarked buses for Area 51 workers. It is interesting to note that the other Area 51 workers fly in everyday from a secret terminal at Las Vegas airport. They are affectionately know as the Janet Flights (see article here).
A Janet Flight Leaves Las Vegas Airport
About 14 miles down this path, you will reach a series of signs warning you to stop/turn back/don’t photograph the area/and so forth. This is indeed where you should stop unless you particularly enjoy federal prison. You have arrived; this is as close to the heartbeat of secret American military coverups as most folks can hope to get. Get out of your car and peer up the hill a bit. You might spot the infamous Cammo Dudes, who are contracted security guys who work for the defense contractor Wackenhut. Don’t test these fellas. They work and live in the middle of an endless desert just waiting for something, anything, to happen, and they are only too happy to “greet you” when you give them cause to do so. If you look closer around the desert landscape, you might spot one of the many motion censor devices that detect any foot or vehicle traffic in the area. In the skies, it is not uncommon to see helicopters and other aircraft buzzing the area as well. Either way, be assured, someone is watching you and is ready to pounce if you cross this final border line. The signs say no pictures, but most seem to get away with it.
The Mountains Around This Area Are great for UFO Spotting
If you are left wanting more after your dirt road derby, you can join the truly committed and trek into the surrounding mountains that dot this area of Nevada. On a clear day, especially early in the morning, you can see directly into the base from the peaks of one or two of these mountains. A guide is recommended due to the extreme conditions of the desert and because getting lost on an active bombing range is never a fun thing. Inquire in Rachel as to where the best spots and guides are for the time you go.
So, if you’re an avid believer or just a curious thrill seeker, a trip into this region will be well worth your while. Even though you may not capture your own alien by the end, you will certianly get the chance to share in some of the more covert and curious parts of American folklore and history.
For some extra pointers, Pyrodes thinks the best information about Area 51 is always better found locally in Rachel, but look here for some more answers to common questions. Also, check out the video below because this guy made the trip and, well, we also kinda love this dude:
If you have some more tips for our readers, please leave them in the comments below! Enjoy, Earthlings, and Happy Travels!
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I NEED TO GET IN HERE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! EVEN IF I DIE I JUST NEED TO LOOK AT A ALIEN SPACESHIP OR SOMETHING !!!!!!!!!