You have not truly experienced Southern California until you have explored the complex geology, desert climate, and extraordinary vistas of the Death Valley Scenic Byway. If you do not believe us, here is a challenge for you. Five words: an off-the-paved path road trip. More words: slip into comfortable clothing; pack snacks and road-safe entertainment, and let us guide you through this thrilling three-and-a-half-hour journey.
Our Death Valley Scenic Byway road trip will take us through shifting dunes, historical and cultural sites, sculpted hills, expansive vistas, and eventually, land us on rugged terrains boasting stunning views. Desert wildlife abounds in the area and you may spot a few, so be sure to drive carefully.
Death Valley features the lowest point and the highest temperatures in North America. These extremes have contributed to the wondrous beauty of this stunning desert. Note that our road trip begins when you enter the national park; there is an entrance fee.
Your first scenic sighting, if you are driving from Los Angeles, would be Panamint Valley, a 65-mile long and 10-mile wide basin. If you start early, consider the two-mile round trip hike to Darwin Falls. It is a year-round spring-fed waterfall that lies west of Panamint Valley via an unpaved road.
If you cannot make it, do not worry, the drive continues! As you climb up, you should see the ever-so-stunning Panamint Dunes from a distance. Other scenic sights in the area include the finest stands of tree-sized yuccas, Father Crowley Vista, Telescope Peak, and Wildrose Charcoal Kilns.
Get on Wildrose Road and, at an elevation of 6,433 feet, look to Aguereberry Point for a sweeping view of Death Valley. It offers a gorgeous perspective of Death Valley from the west. You can pull over to enjoy the picturesque view. Eleven miles on Wildrose Road should take you to Aguereberry Road.
The remote dirt road is fanned by small rocks and rugged hills. Depending on the climate, it is subject to mud and snow conditions. Though Aguereberry Road offers a gentle slope, it features a rock outcrop and steep, rocky terrain — nothing a vehicle with 4x4 capabilities like the Nissan Frontier pictured here cannot handle as you reach Furnace Creek.
Furnace Creek hosts most of the park's facilities — a campground, a golf course, restaurants, and hotels. You can pop into the Furnace Creek Visitor’s Center to learn more about the area. Notable scenic sights in the environs are Dante’s View, Zabriskie Point, Badwater Basin, Devils Golfcourse, and Artists Drive.
Our Death Valley Scenic Byway road trip comes to an end at Death Valley Junction, only 30 minutes via the CA-190 E. It lies isolated on the borders of Nevada and California. The town is home to three people and comprises a café, a hotel, and a fully functional opera house. Though deserted, this ghost town overflows with adventure.
If you have got more time on your hands, drive to Goldwell Open Air Museum via the NV-373 N and US-95 N to see whimsical and eerie sculptures for free.
So, what are you waiting for? Gas up the car for a thrilling Southern California adventure! Which scenic road trip would you like us to explore in the future? Let us know in the comments!
