Two days in Death Valley

[UKTrevor]

Hi Mark,

Thanks, I'll certainly take your advice on that.

Just a couple of new points that I have just thought of;

Do you know if we'll still be OK (road condition) to drive the Wildrose Road from Emigrant Campground back up to Wildrose Campground?

Also, we have spoken a lot about the route into Death Valley....but what about the trip from Furnace Creek to Las Vegas? Any suggestions on which way to go and what to see?

Thanks again
Trevor

[Mark Sedenquist]

Do you know if we'll still be OK (road condition) to drive the Wildrose Road from Emigrant Campground back up to Wildrose Campground?

As a reminder I drove these roads three days ago and suggested that you not use the Wildrose road -- it is perfectly passable but you don't have sufficient time to use this road if it is not going to be the route in.

Also, we have spoken a lot about the route into Death Valley....but what about the trip from Furnace Creek to Las Vegas? Any suggestions on which way to go and what to see?

Re-read this thread -- that route suggestion is in there too.

Mark

[The Desert Drifter]

UKTrevor,
I was reading your thread and I might throw some tidbits in.

You must include Zabriskie Point either in the early morning or early evening. And bring your camera.

Another great place to venture off too and explore is Harmony Borox Ruins. But park the car and get out and head south to the small hills. There are some ruins there worth seeing.

If exiting out of the park, I would highly recommend taking the road south leading too Badwater (I know the road was washed out, but they are in the mode of repairing. Check at the visitor center prior to exiting for road conditions). When you get to the Ashford Mills Ruins, stop and look at the geological features just to the west. You will see a great snap shot of geological time with the water tables. Hint... near this site is a Prehistoric Native American Camp with geoglyphs (Native American Rock Art).

From there, continue south and take the 178. Stop at the passes and you will get some great shots. A little research on this stretch of road can lead to some pretty interesting places to do a quick stop.

It’s tempting to venture on a dirt road on this stretch of highway. If you do not know the desert, nor have the proper gear do not attempt it. You’re still in the hot season and many people stay away from the back country during these months. I can't tell you how many times I have come across passenger cars stuck for days at a time with temperatures above +100.

Basically, enjoy and take many many pictures.


Joel

[Mark Sedenquist]

If exiting out of the park, I would highly recommend taking the road south leading too Badwater (I know the road was washed out, but they are in the mode of repairing. Check at the visitor center prior to exiting for road conditions). When you get to the Ashford Mills Ruins, stop and look at the geological features just to the west. You will see a great snap shot of geological time with the water tables. Hint... near this site is a Prehistoric Native American Camp with geoglyphs (Native American Rock Art).

Joel, Welcome to the Great American RoadTrip Forum -- I have checked with mutual friends and no one has seemed to know where you were were. Someday I would love to learn the "short version" of what has transpired with your various desert exploration web sites.

Anyway, wonderful to have you here as a member!

Mark

[The Desert Drifter]

Mark,
Thanks for the hearty welcome and looking forward to sharing some of my experiences and adventures here.

Respectfully,
Joel aka, The Desert Drifter

P.S. Spending a lot of time out in Panamint Valley so email if planning to be out there. Maybe we could hook up and I can tell you all about it!!!

[UKTrevor]

Joel,

Thank you for your tips and advice. It certainly seems that Zabriskie Point, of all of Death Valley's points of interest, is a must do. Your advice re the exit route just re-affirms the plans I had - especially about not trying the dirt roads!

Thanks again.

Trevor