I actually really like that road, and exploring the area. We recently spent a week in the Caliente, Panaca, Pioche area, as that is an area I hadn't explored as much as the regions further north. Stop in the towns, talk to folks, and find out what there is to do in the area and it's rich with variations of scenery and history. Lots of little canyons, old mines, streams, abandoned buildings, reservoir's and state parks. Further north The Ely area can be fun if you like to get out and explore, and the town itself has a lot of history.
Ruby Mountain Wilderness has fantastic hiking and backpacking. It's one of those Gems that luckily doesn't get huge crowds, it's not far off the path. You can also detour a little bit off the path to the Great Basin National park area and check out Lehman caves or the nearby campgrounds. It's actually a route with a lot of adventure along it, just not easily seen or experienced from the hwy.