Driving the Saratoga Spring Road in Death Valley NP

Saratoga Spring Road is a very exciting desert drive located in San Bernardino County, in the southern portion of the U.S. state of California. It’s one of the challenging Backcountry roads in the Death Valley National Park.

Saratoga Spring Road

The road is totally unpaved but navigable by all high clearance 2WD vehicles in dry weather. It’s 10 miles long starting at the paved S.R. 127 (Death Valley Road). If there has been a recent rainstorm or if the area has had a wet season, you will need a high clearance vehicle because there are several river crossings and at times can be difficult or impossible without high clearance. Amargosa River crossing will be 4WD or impassable when the river is flowing.

The drive is usually easy with any class of vehicle. Due to frequent flooding in the area, road conditions often vary throughout the park. Do not travel this road in severe weather conditions. This trail passes through remote areas, so you need to be prepared. For the most up-to-date information on road conditions, visit Death Valley’s website at nps.gov/deva. Large springs create wildlife habitat.