Death Valley Backcountry Loop
Ghost towns and big sky in America's hottest desert
This 120-mile loop strings together some of Death Valley’s most remote backcountry roads, connecting ghost towns like Ballarat and Darwin with technical routes through Warm Spring Canyon and the Eureka Dunes. The route crosses the Panamint Range via Hunter Mountain Road, drops into hidden valleys where prospectors once scratched out fortunes, and skirts the edge of the Eureka Valley — home to some of the tallest sand dunes in North America.
Moderate to difficult depending on recent weather, requiring high-clearance 4WD and serious desert preparation. Water is scarce to nonexistent between towns, and summer temperatures can kill — stick to October through April. Cell service is fantasy-land thinking out here. What you get is pure Mojave solitude, mining history you can touch, and night skies that’ll remind you why you started overlanding in the first place.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 120 mi / 193.1 km |
| Duration | 3-4 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 7454 ft |
| Best season | October-April |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Lone Pine, CA |
| Land manager | Death Valley National Park |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Jeep Wrangler handle this trail?
Yes, a stock Wrangler with high clearance will do fine on most sections. The rocky washes and occasional loose sand are well within stock capabilities, though recovery gear is smart in the desert.
Is the trail accessible in summer?
No, avoid Death Valley backcountry from May through September when temperatures exceed 120°F. Best window is October through April when daytime temps stay reasonable.
Do I need permits for this Death Valley loop?
You need a Death Valley National Park entrance pass ($30 for 7 days or $55 annual). Backcountry camping requires a free permit from the visitor center - get it before you head out.
What's the hardest part of this route?
The rocky climbs up to the ghost towns can be technical with loose rock and exposure. Take your time on the descents and watch your line choice.
How much water should I carry for 3-4 days?
Bring at least 2 gallons per person per day - that's 6-8 gallons minimum per person for the full loop. There's no resupply once you're committed to the backcountry sections.