Death Valley
Death Valley covers a
very large area and your tour will depend upon which entrance
to the park you use.
One tour we can recommend if you spend the night in Lone Pine, CA (on the US395) to the West of Death Valley is to take the CA136 / CA190) south and east into Death Valley at Panamint Springs. Staying on the CA190 will take you through some typical Death Valley scenery to Furnace Creek where you can stop at the Visitor Center.
If you have time, from Furnace Creek take the CA178 south 17 miles to Badwater (the lowest point in the contiguous US at 282 feet below sea level). Return to Furnace Creek along the same road with an optional detour along Artists Drive. The colours of the desert make the detour well worthwhile.
Taking the CA190 from Furnace Creek to the South East you can detour 13 miles to Dante's Peak for some spectacular views from its 5475ft height.
Dante's Peak is the end of the road so you have to return to the CA190.
Travelling in Death Valley
Before travelling on backcountry roads or hiking along trails, consult with park rangers. They know current road and trail conditions (which change often), whether your route is advisable and whether you are properly equipped. In hot weather stay on the main paved roads since they are patrolled periodically.
Water
Carry enough drinking water (at least a gallon per day per person). Ideally plastic containers kept in the shade inside an airr-conditioned car. Stock up with water before entering the park.
Sun
Avoid exposure to the sun. Sunburn can be very serious, and heat stroke or heat exhaustion can prove fatal. It is advisable to wear a hat, sunscreen and dark sunglasses.
Your Car
Keep tires at normal pressure. Soft tires generate heat and cause blowouts. If you think the tires are riding hard, stop along the road for a few minutes; you will find that tires cool quickly.
Frequently check the gas, oil and water temperature gauges. Service stations are far apart in the park. Radiator water is available from emergency storage tanks at several places along the main roads.
Watch the temperature gauge. If your vehicle is air conditioned and the gauge indicates that the engine is close to overheating, turn off the air conditioner. If the engine overheats, pull to the side of the road but do not stop the engine. Turn on the heater and , while the car is at fast idle, slowly pour water over the radiator core to cool it. Refill the radiator to its proper level only after the engine has cooled; the motor should be kept running.
Road grades can be deceptive. On warm days, shift to a lower gear that will allow the car to accelerate on grades and drive slowly to avoid overheating the engine.
Stay with your car if it breaks down, stay in the shade it provides and wait for help to arrive. Do not attempt to walk for assistance.
