Jeeps Off-Roading Death Valley
There are numerous wilderness areas that offer great off-road challenges, but Death Valley is one of the hottest places in the world. Do you think you can handle it?
1. The Hottest America Has to Offer
Located in Eastern California, Death Valley measures approximately 3,000 square miles of desert heat. The record for the highest air temperature is held by Death Valley's very own Furnace Creek, which measured 134 degrees Fahrenheit. That is the hottest ambient temperature that has ever been recorded on Earth (that wasn't next to a volcano, or in a forest fire), and was just one of five days during a heat wave with highs over 125.
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2. Preparation
When tackling a place like Death Valley, you have to prepare much differently. The first obvious thing you need is drinking water, lots of water. Experienced Death Valley off-roaders recommend you stay with other vehicles just in case one of your gets stuck. Bring plenty of rope and retrieval items to help you get out, and no matter what you do, do not leave the vehicle. The chances of someone finding and rescuing you are much better if your are with your Jeep and not wandering on foot. Check out 10 off-road survival items to pack HERE.
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3. Death Valley
Out of 3.4 million acres, 91% is protected from you driving your Jeep over it, however, this leaves over a thousand miles of paved roads and dirt trails that allow off-roading. A trail like Hole-in-the-Wall goes for six miles, and requires a high-clearance vehicle. If you want a long challenging trip, the Titus Canyon offers 27 miles where you will go through a variety of terrain, including a ghost town, mountains, and finally drop back down into Death Valley itself. Almost all of the Death Valley off-roading areas are recommended only in a high-clearance vehicle.
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4. Escaping the Heat - Sort of
The reality is, there is no escaping the brutal heat of the desert, but if you want a temperature drop, find your way up the Chloride Cliff Road Trip. Follow this trail and you'll get some relief from the heat in the colorful Funeral Mountains at 5,200 feet. This won't feel like winter in Buffalo, N.Y., but it will be a breeze compared to Furnace Creek.
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5. Death Valley Wildlife
Despite the name, Death Valley is home to many animals. On your off-roading adventure, you may see animals like the kit fox, the kangaroo rat, roadrunner, pupfish, as well as numerous species of lizards. There are 56 mammals, 36 reptiles, and 400 bird species known to be living within the national park, not to mention hundreds of insects. Whether you're looking to explore the open desert, the diverse off-road terrain, or enjoy the untouched nature scenery, taking a drive through Death Valley could be quite an enjoyable challenge.
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