Death Valley, the largest national park outside of Alaska, has more miles of roads than any other park (roughly 1,000 miles of paved and unpaved roadways). Backcountry roads unlock some of the most fascinating remote locations in the U.S. to visitors with high-clearance 4WD vehicles. Before racing into the backcountry make sure you are prepared. Pack basic tools, like a shovel, extra food, and water. Equip your vehicle with “off-road” tires. Carry at least one spare tire (two is better), a can of fix-a-flat or tire plug kit, a 12-volt air compressor, and a car jack and lug-wrench. Last but not least, top-off your gas tank before entering the backcountry. These simple precautions could save your life or at least prevent a considerable amount of grief. Should you break down, it is usually better to stay with your vehicle and wait for another traveler. Leave the car’s hood up and mark the road with a large X visible to aircraft. Traveling in a group of two or more 4WD vehicles can minimize the risks of exploring Death Valley’s backcountry roads. If you come across a stranded vehicle, stop to lend a hand.
After making the proper preparations, choose your backcountry destination. Titus Canyon and Racetrack Valley are the most popular attractions. Titus Canyon Road is 26.8-miles (high-clearance required) and it begins at Daylight Pass Road (NV-374), 2.7 miles east of the park boundary, eventually winding its way through the Grapevine Mountains, past a ghost town and petroglyphs, and through a spectacular canyon. Racetrack Valley Road spans 28 miles from Ubehebe Crater Road to the Racetrack. Do not walk on the Racetrack when wet and never drive on it. Lippincott, North and South Eureka Valley, and Echo Canyon Roads are also excellent options. A brochure and map of all backcountry roads is available at visitor and information centers. Do not drive off designated roads.