Gerlach

Nearby Communities

• Empire
• Winnemucca
• Fernley
• Lovelock
• Black Rock City

Gerlach is a small unincorporated community in far northwestern Washoe County, Nevada, located near the southern edge of the **Black Rock Desert**. As of the 2020 Census, Gerlach had a population of approximately 130.

Gerlach is best known as the last stop before the annual Burning Man festival, held on the nearby playa at Black Rock City. Historically, it was a railroad and gypsum company town. Today, it serves as a gateway to vast public lands, desert recreation, and remote-living communities.

Quick Facts

• **Status:** Unincorporated CDP
• **County:** Washoe County
• **Population:** ~130
• **ZIP Code:** 89412
• **Elevation:** ~3,940 ft
• **Access:** State Route 447

Local Economy

Gerlach’s economy includes:

• **Tourism and seasonal events** – especially Burning Man
• **Lodging, food, and fuel for travelers**
• **Public land management and support services**
• **Art, desert conservation, and remote living**

Features and Attractions

• **Black Rock Desert** – playa access, land speed records, and stargazing
• **Burning Man Gateway** – staging area and info stations
• **Friends of Black Rock High Rock** visitor center
• Historic Gerlach Water Tower and remnants of rail history

Education

Gerlach is served by the Washoe County School District via:

• Gerlach K–12 School – one of the smallest in the district
• Programs supported by regional and philanthropic partnerships

Governance and Services

Gerlach is managed by the Washoe County Commission, with support from the Gerlach General Improvement District (GID) for:

• Water, sewer, and road maintenance
• Fire protection and emergency services
• Coordination during large-scale events