If you are thinking of visiting Area 51, travelling from Las Vegas expect a 135 miles journey, or 382 miles from Reno. Rachel is 146 miles from Las Vegas but only 244 miles from Reno. When you get to Highway 375, Groom Lake road is the dirt track heading south, as you enter Tikaboo Valley, the intersection is between mile markers 34 and 35. Following this dirt track for just under 14 miles will bring you to the restricted area, marked by signs which notify you that the security are authorised to use deadly force.

If you get this close to Area 51, you will not see the base, but you will be able to see the security force, known as 'Cammo Dudes' due to their uniform. They drive white Jeep Cherokees and white Force F-150 trucks. When you get this far, you are also being monitored by two surveillance cameras on the hill. EG&G Technical Services Inc. provide the 'Cammo Dudes', they are a private security firm using high power binoculars to survey Groom lake Road and the border.

Do not cross the border, you will be detained, fined $1000 and your activities will be alerted to Lincoln County Sheriff. The 'Cammo Dudes' can also shoot you if they see fit, this is not reported to have happened before, but don't test them.

If you want to get the best view of the actual base, the best time to go to Area 51 is nearly 10 years ago. In 1995 the government restricted access to the best places: 'White Sides' and 'Freedom Ridge'. These days your best bet is to go to 'Tikaboo Peak' which is 26 miles from the base so take optical equipment for the best results. 'Reveille Peak', north-west of Rachel, is another good place to look at Area 51 from however it is 45 miles from the base, so good weather and excellent equipment is necessary.