Charcoal Kilns Road

Charcoal Kilns Road climbs nine miles through Wildrose Canyon to ten perfectly preserved stone kilns built in 1877 to supply charcoal for silver smelters in the Argus Range. These beehive-shaped monuments to mining ambition stand at 6,800 feet, offering sweeping views across Death Valley’s salt flats to the distant Funeral Mountains. The dirt road gains serious elevation through pinyon pine and juniper forest, a stark contrast to the desert floor 5,000 feet below.

Any stock vehicle with decent ground clearance can make the climb, though the steep, rocky sections demand careful throttle control and functioning brakes for the descent. Winter brings snow that closes the upper reaches, while summer heat makes the climb brutal despite the elevation gain. No permits required, and dispersed camping is allowed near the kilns. It’s a perfect introduction to Death Valley backcountry that rewards drivers with legitimate history and killer photography opportunities.