Is I-80 safe in winter?

I-80 frequently closes due to blizzards in Wyoming; always check the DOT website.

Are there trains to Lincoln?

Amtrak serves Lincoln via the California Zephyr line.

What is the best city to stop in?

Salt Lake City is the most convenient midpoint for lodging.

Do I need snow chains?

Carry chains if traveling between November and April.

The stretch through the Wasatch Mountains is particularly beautiful.

Reno

Lincoln

Flight Driving

Reno to Lincoln

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Reno to Lincoln spans approximately 1,900 kilometers across the American West. Driving via Interstate 80 is the most direct route, passing through Salt Lake City and Cheyenne. Flights typically require a connection in Denver or Salt Lake City. The drive takes roughly 18 hours of pure transit time. You will traverse the Great Basin and the high plains of Wyoming. This route offers a dramatic transition from desert landscapes to the rolling prairies of the Midwest.

Total Distance: 1,900 km driving distance; 1,650 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from Reno-Tahoe International Airport takes 6 hours including layovers.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective for groups of two or more people.

Compare Reno to Lincoln Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	6 hours	18 hours
Avg Price	$350-$700	$300-$500 in fuel
Operator	United Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	RNO to LNK via DEN or SLC.	I-80 East through Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, and Nebraska.
Tip	Book flights arriving at Lincoln Airport (LNK) to save on ground transport.	Check weather reports for Donner Pass and Elk Mountain before departing.

Travel Tips

Fuel Stops
Fill up in major cities like Salt Lake City to avoid high prices in remote Wyoming stretches.
Time Zones
Be aware that you will cross from Pacific Time into Mountain and finally Central Time.
Hydration
The high altitude of the Rockies can cause dehydration; carry extra water.
Tire Pressure
Check your tire pressure before leaving, as temperature fluctuations are extreme.
Offline Maps
Download offline maps as cellular service is spotty in rural Wyoming.

Safety Tips

Wind Warnings
High winds in Wyoming can be dangerous for high-profile vehicles.
Wildlife
Watch for deer and elk crossing the highway, especially at dawn and dusk.
Fatigue
Plan for at least one overnight stop to avoid driver fatigue.
Emergency Kit
Keep a winter emergency kit in your trunk regardless of the season.