The paved Scotty's Castle Road in Death Valley NP
Scotty's Castle Road is a paved road located in the desolate northern section of Death Valley National Park, in California, USA, and provides access to Scotty’s Castle historic house museum.
The road, also known as Bonnie Claire Road, is hidden in the green oasis of Grapevine Canyon in far northern Death Valley. It’s 62 miles long. Scotty's Castle (also known as Death Valley Ranch) is a two-story mission revival and Spanish colonial revival style villa. No gasoline is available at Scotty's Castle. The nearest fuel is available at Stovepipe Wells (45 miles), Furnace Creek (53 miles), Beatty, Nevada (60 miles) and Tonopah, Nevada (88 miles). The road leads to Ubehebe Crater Road.
The drive out at sunrise is just as spectacular. Death Valley is one of the hottest places in the world, and climatic conditions in the park can be extreme. The world record highest air temperature of 134°F (57°C) was recorded here. Plan your visit in the park. Drink plenty of water. Avoid hiking in the heat. Travel prepared to survive: Stay on paved roads in summer. If your car breaks down, stay with it until help comes. Carry extra drinking water in your car in case of emergency. If you feel dizzy, nauseous, or a headache, get out of the sun immediately and drink water or sports drinks. More people die in single-car accidents than by any other means. To avoid an accident, follow the speed limits, shift to a lower gear on steep downhill grades, and wear your seatbelt. Never place your hands or feet where you cannot see first. Rattlesnakes, scorpions, or black widow spiders may be sheltered there. Avoid canyons during rain storms and be prepared to move to higher ground. While driving, be alert for water running in washes and across road dips. Hikers, backpackers and four-wheelers need to be self reliant and well prepared. Always plan ahead, carry detailed maps and let someone know your plans. Backpackers should obtain a free backcountry permit from any visitor center. Dial 911 from any telephone or cell phone. Cell phones may not work in many parts of the park. Do not depend on them.