Gerlach is 110 miles north of Reno on US-395 and Nevada State Route 447. The drive from Reno takes about two hours. The road is paved all the way and in good condition; the last 40 miles run through open range country where cattle occasionally stand on the highway, so watch for livestock after dark.
There is no public transport. A car is essential — Gerlach has one gas station (at Bruno's Country Club), and the next fuel is back in Reno or, heading north, in Cedarville, California (85 miles).
The nearest commercial airport is Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO), which has flights from most major US cities. Car hire is available at the airport.