Gerlach and Empire

If you’re driving to Burning Man, you’ll likely travel through Empire and Gerlach, gateway to the Black Rock Desert, and center of the known universe.

Here is some basic info about these small and neighborly towns and resources and directions.

Empire was established with the founding of the gypsum mine in 1923, and U.S. Gypsum owned and supported the town since 1946.  90% of the drywall produced in the United States came from materials mined here.  Now under new ownership, the Empire Mine produces gypsum for agricultural and industrial uses.

Gerlach is a truly remarkable community and beautiful place. Check out the Friends of Black Rock High Rock for further info, and the legendary Bruno’s Country Club is the most popular spot in town year-round and is a meeting place with hospitable conversation and information about the region and history. Also check out Bruno’s Gas, Towing & Laundry Mat, and Miners Club.

Gerlach, Empire and the surrounding environs are is a great place to visit year-round. There are some important things for everyone to be mindful about on their way to and from Burning Man:

Some Important Reminders Passing Through

• Respect that Gerlach and Empire are a very small rural and agricultural communities with some conservative roots. Conduct yourself appropriately and with courtesy and you will be very welcome.
• Do not come to Black Rock City, Gerlach or Empire if you do not have a ticket.
• Respect all Closures – most of the playa and the hot springs in the region are closed during the event. If you’re interested in visiting them the rest of the year, visit the Friends of Black Rock High Rock office in Gerlach (see info further below).
• Speed limit is 25 mph in Gerlach, and obey the speed limit in Empire and traffic directions in both towns.
• The road south and north of and through Gerlach/Empire is only one lane. If traffic is backed up, do not try to bypass it by veering into the other lane.
• Unless you are a customer at any of the businesses in Gerlach or Empire, keep moving through town.
• No general parking allowed throughout Gerlach and Empire and observe the No Parking signs.
• Respect all public and private property.
• No loitering.
• No hitchiking.
• No nudity – you must be fully clothed.
• No drugs.
• As pets are not allowed at Burning Man, you cannot leave them in Gerlach or Empire, so don’t bring them.
• The Gerlach Park is closed during Burning Man.
• Finally, Leave No Trace – do not leave it on the playa, and do not leave your garbage in business or citizens’ dumpsters, in their yards or along the side of the road. Go here for disposal locations in the region, while you’ll also likely see entrepreneurs on the side of the road with dumpsters charging for trash disposal.