Dead Horse Canyon Loop

Deadhorse Canyon Loop is a 33.5-mile route through a remote part of Death Valley National Park. It starts from Hunter Mountain Road and ascends into the southwest slopes of the Cottonwood Canyons making a loop around Deadhorse Canyon. This route features scenic vistas, narrow canyons, unique geology, historic mining sites, and access to some of Death Valley National Park's most remote areas. 

There are steep ups and downs, little shade, and an overall elevation gain of 6,547 feet. It is a rugged and remote trek that makes for an exciting and fun backpacking trip for experienced hikers who are comfortable traveling in backcountry desert areas.

DIRECTIONS

The route begins by ascending Hunter Mountain Road from South Pass and Saline Valley Road to Hunter Spring. The road climbs steeply up a canyon, and eventually reaches a plateau, at which point it leaves the road and descends through a canyon heading east. Keep left at the junction with Cottonwood Canyon and follow the Cottonwood-Marble Canyon Loop Trail north. At the junction with Deadhorse Canyon and Marble Canyon, turn left again and follow the Upper Marble Canyon Trail west. Turn left at the dirt road junction and head back to Hunter Mountain Road. Then descend Hunter Mountain Road, retracing your steps. 

WATER

Seasonal springs may be found in Upper Cottonwood Canyon and Deadhorse Canyon. For the most up-to-date information on trail conditions and water availability, contact the park rangers or the visitor centers within the park.

WHEN TO VISIT

Late spring and fall are ideal times to visit this area. The road can become impassable in winter and early spring due to mud, ice, and snow. The summer can bring extreme heat in the lower elevations where there is little shade and water. No matter when you visit, be sure to check the current conditions at one of the visitor centers before heading out.  

CAMPING AND PERMITS

Visitors who plan to stay overnight in the backcountry are asked to fill out  a free backcountry camping permit. Permits are available at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center and the Stovepipe Wells Ranger Station.

• Furnace Creek Visitor Center is open 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m, daily. 

• The Stovepipe Wells Ranger Station does not have regular operating hours. The hours and days they are open depend on the temperature and staffing. Call 1-760-786-3200 for current information and status.

WILDERNESS REGULATIONS

This route enters the Death Valley Wilderness Area and the following is a list of Wilderness specific regulations that are critical for the protection of this fragile environment. 

• Vehicles are not allowed to travel off-road.

• Bicycles and other motorized vehicles are not permitted in designated Wilderness. 

• Pets are not allowed in the wilderness or on trails. 

• Hunting and trapping is prohibited. 

• The use of drones is prohibited.

• Theft and vandalism are prohibited. Visitors are not allowed to collect or disturb any natural materials such as rocks, plants, or animals. 

Please visit https://www.nps.gov/deva/learn/management/rules-and-regulations.htm, for a more comprehensive list. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Backcountry and Wilderness Map

Death Valley National Park Visitor Guide

Backcountry Camping General Information.

NPS - Backcountry Camping Areas