A paved road to Emigrant Pass in the Death Valley NP

Emigrant Pass is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 1.620m (5,318ft) above the sea level, located in Inyo County, in the eastern central part of California, in USA. Do not attempt this climb in the summer.

Located in the Death Valley National Park, the road to the summit is paved. It’s called Emigrant Canyon Road and follows the canyon - gently winding, past steep grassy slopes and low rocky cliffs, across the Harrisburg Flats, climbing to a high point of 5,318 feet at the summit. Around here the landscape is much more open with views over wide plains to far-off mountains both east and west. This road is usually open all year. Emigrant Canyon road climbs to a higher altitude in the park and the landscape is much different than what people expect or associate with Death Valley.

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. Do not enter mine tunnels or shafts. Mines may be unstable, have hidden shafts, pockets of bad air and poisonous gas. 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.