Backway to Saline Valley

The Saline Valley road drops you into one of California’s most isolated corners, where clothing-optional hot springs bubble up from the desert floor and the Milky Way blazes overhead without a trace of light pollution. This route through the Inyo Mountains follows old mining roads that connected borax operations in the 1800s, crossing Grapevine Canyon and winding through badlands that look more like Mars than California. The palm-lined hot springs at the end aren’t just a reward—they’re a glimpse into Death Valley’s wilder past.

Any high-clearance vehicle can make this run, though 4WD helps in sandy washes and steep climbs. Winter through early spring offers perfect weather, but summer heat makes this dangerous without serious preparation. Pack extra water, fuel, and tell someone your plans—cell service doesn’t exist out here. The springs themselves are managed by a loose collective of desert rats who’ve maintained the soaking pools for decades. It’s not just a drive; it’s a journey into California’s untamed heart.