
Where is Scotty's Castle Road?
Usa, north-america
65.66 km
N/A
hard
Year-round
Ready for an off-the-beaten-path adventure? Head to the northern reaches of Death Valley National Park and find Scotty's Castle Road, also known as Bonnie Claire Road. Tucked away in the green oasis of Grapevine Canyon, this paved road is your gateway to the historic Scotty’s Castle, a stunning Spanish-colonial-revival villa.
Stretching for about 41 miles (65.66km), the road cruises north-south from CA-190 all the way to the Nevada border. The sunrise views are incredible!
Now, let's talk about the desert vibes. Death Valley is seriously hot! Pack tons of water, avoid hiking in the blazing sun, and stick to the paved roads during the summer months. No fuel is available at Scotty’s Castle, so fill up at Stovepipe Wells, Furnace Creek, or nearby towns in Nevada. Stay alert for critters like rattlesnakes and scorpions. During rainstorms, avoid canyons and be mindful of water on the roads. Cell service is spotty, so don't rely on your phone.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 65.66 km
- Difficulty
- hard
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