Steel Pass is a truly outstanding 4wd adventure in Death Valley
Usa, north-america
73.7 km
1,565 m
extreme
Year-round
Steel Pass, sitting pretty at 5,134 feet in California's Inyo County, is not for the faint of heart! This off-road adventure, also known as Steele Pass, winds through the remote and rugged heart of Death Valley National Park.
Steel Pass Road is entirely unpaved and gets progressively rockier as you near the summit. This 45.8-mile stretch runs north to south from Eureka Valley Road to Saline Valley Road (southbound is generally easier).
Considered one of Death Valley's most challenging backcountry routes, expect narrow sections, silt beds, ever-changing washes and canyons! High-clearance 4WD is an absolute must. Longer wheelbase vehicles might find it extra tricky. You'll need to be able to navigate narrow, sharp dry falls – sidewall tire damage is common, so pack a few spares! The road can be impassable after heavy rains. Waterfalls in Dedeckera Canyon require some real skill, and the Saline Valley wash has some tight, rocky turns. Make sure you have enough gas, too, as there's no cell service here.
The drive can take anywhere from 2.5 to 3 hours non-stop. Always check the Death Valley National Park website for the latest road conditions due to frequent flooding. It is best traveled with more than one vehicle. Get ready for an epic adventure!
Where is it?
Steel Pass is a truly outstanding 4wd adventure in Death Valley is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 41.8780, -97.2351
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 73.7 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,565 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- 41.8780, -97.2351
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