Posted by Jason Branz on February 4, 2007 at 1:29 PM
I'm planning a camping/photo trip to Death Valley next weekend, leaving Sac early Friday morning and returning on Tuesday. I have a couple of questions since this will be my first trip to DV.
1. Are the roads to the Eureka Dunes passable by passenger car? From what I've read so far on various forums, the roads are washboard-y but passable. My vehicle is a Pontiac Grand Am.
2. Same question for the road to The Racetrack...so far I'm thinking no.
Any input is greatly appreciated!
Posted by John W. Wall on February 4, 2007 at 3:36 PM
I hope your Grand Am has better shocks than my brother-in-law's did. That thing was murder even on the streets of Chicago.
Given the vehicle you'll be taking, I think the Eureka Dunes, and most certainly the Race Track, are off limits. First, those roads would beat your car and you death. Second, it's not a good idea to venture into these remote spots alone, for safety reasons. A breakdown on I-80 wouldn't be a big deal; a breakdown in the desert could prove disastrous.
My counsel would be for you to stay on the well traveled and graded roads. There is plenty to see, and you'll be much less apprehensive.
Death Valley is a great place: I know you'll have a good time!
-PB
Posted by Eric A. Rosen on February 5, 2007 at 11:10 AM
Not recommended for Eureka Dunes... It is a 75 mile drive from DV to Eureka Dunes... Racetrack can be driven with a sedan, but you really have to be very very careful... High clearance would work better....
Posted by Jason Branz on February 6, 2007 at 12:06 PM
Thanks for the replies. I'm going to skip Eureka dunes and the Racetrack, especially with rain in the forecast. Hopefully that will provide some dramatic skies.
Discussion
4 replies1. Are the roads to the Eureka Dunes passable by passenger car? From what I've read so far on various forums, the roads are washboard-y but passable. My vehicle is a Pontiac Grand Am.
2. Same question for the road to The Racetrack...so far I'm thinking no.
Any input is greatly appreciated!
Given the vehicle you'll be taking, I think the Eureka Dunes, and most certainly the Race Track, are off limits. First, those roads would beat your car and you death. Second, it's not a good idea to venture into these remote spots alone, for safety reasons. A breakdown on I-80 wouldn't be a big deal; a breakdown in the desert could prove disastrous.
My counsel would be for you to stay on the well traveled and graded roads. There is plenty to see, and you'll be much less apprehensive.
Death Valley is a great place: I know you'll have a good time!
-PB
Thanks again!