Saline Valley Road
Death Valley's forgotten backdoor
Saline Valley Road is Death Valley’s forgotten entrance, a 76-mile odyssey from Highway 395 near Big Pine that climbs over the Inyo Mountains, drops into remote Saline Valley, then conquers the Last Chance Range to reach Death Valley proper. The route passes abandoned Cerro Gordo mines, skirts the edge of wilderness areas, and ends at natural hot springs where clothing has been optional since the 1960s. This is old-school desert travel — no services, no cell coverage, just endless basin-and-range country.
The road demands high-clearance 4WD for rocky sections and washouts, especially after storms. Best traveled October through April to avoid brutal summer heat. Carry multiple days of water and fuel — Saline Valley’s remoteness has claimed unprepared travelers. Dispersed camping throughout, but the hot springs area has established sites. You’ll cross two mountain ranges, drop into one of California’s most isolated valleys, and soak in springs that have drawn desert rats for generations.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | Camping, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 76 mi / 122.3 km |
| Duration | 2-3 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 7000 ft |
| Best season | October-April |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Big Pine, California |
| Land manager | Bureau of Land Management |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Jeep Wrangler handle Saline Valley Road?
Yes, a stock Jeep Wrangler with high clearance and 4WD can handle this trail. The mixed surface and moderate difficulty make it accessible to most capable 4x4 vehicles.
Is Saline Valley Road open in summer?
Technically yes, but don't do it. Summer temperatures exceed 120°F in the valley with zero shade or services. October through April is the only sensible window.
Do I need permits for Saline Valley Road?
No permits required for the trail itself. It's BLM land with free dispersed camping, but follow Leave No Trace principles in this remote area.
What's the hardest part of Saline Valley Road?
The steep, rocky descent into Saline Valley on the east side. Loose rock and tight switchbacks require careful throttle control and good spotting.
How much fuel range do I need for Saline Valley Road?
Plan for at least 200 miles of range minimum. The nearest gas is Big Pine on the west or Lone Pine/Death Valley on the east - both hours away from the trail.