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A 370-mile loop from Las Vegas through Death Valley, often called the “Death Drive,” offers a compelling road trip experience combining dramatic landscapes, historic sites, and a sense of solitude. The route includes mountains, desert basins, ghost towns, and quirky roadside attractions.
Know Before You Go
The Death Drive is easily accessible from Las Vegas and can be completed in a few days. While it’s theoretically possible to drive the loop in under six hours without stopping, a more leisurely pace is recommended to fully explore the area. Travelers should be aware that some roads are currently closed due to damage and should check the National Park Service website for current conditions before departing.
Timing is crucial for this trip. Summers in Death Valley are extremely hot, with temperatures frequently exceeding 110 and reaching 120 degrees Fahrenheit, making outdoor activities dangerous. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable conditions. Winter travel requires preparation for potential snow or icy conditions near Mount Charleston. Cell phone reception is limited in remote areas, and gas stations and restaurants are scarce, so carrying extra supplies – water, food, and a spare tire – is essential.
Expert Insight:
Stops Along the Way
Leaving Las Vegas, travelers will first encounter Red Rock Canyon. West of Las Vegas, near Pahrump, are wineries like Artesian Cellars. A quirky stop just outside Pahrump is Coffin It Up, a coffin-themed shop. The journey continues to Death Valley Junction in California.
Key stops within Death Valley include the Amargosa Opera House, Dante’s View, Zabriskie Point, and Artist’s Palette. At Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America at nearly 282 feet below sea level, visitors can explore the vast salt flats, the Natural Bridge Trail, and the Devil’s Golf Course. Overnight accommodations are available at the Oasis at Death Valley, near Zabriskie Point.
On the return trip, Daylight Pass Road leads to Ubehebe Crater, the ghost town of Leadfield, Klare Spring, and Titus Canyon. The ruins of Rhyolite – a former bank, bottle house, and train depot – offer a glimpse into the area’s mining past. Nearby, the Goldwell Open Air Museum features unique outdoor sculptures. The Amargosa Big Dune Recreation Area and Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, home to endangered species, are also along the route. Finally, travelers can enjoy alpine scenery near Mount Charleston, with lodging available at The Retreat at Charleston Peak.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the length of the “Death Drive”?
The “Death Drive” is a 370-mile loop starting and ending in Las Vegas, extending into Death Valley.
When is the best time to take this road trip?
Spring and fall are the best times to visit, as temperatures are warm but not excessively hot. Winter travel requires preparation for potential snow or ice at higher elevations.
What should travelers bring with them?
Travelers should carry extra water, food, and a spare tire, as gas stations and restaurants are scarce in remote areas. It’s also important to check road conditions with the National Park Service before departing.
Considering the potential for extreme conditions and limited services, what level of preparedness would you recommend for a trip like the “Death Drive”?
