For your first excursion into the park, I recommend
using Highway 190.
It is the closest entrance to the Furnace Creek Visitor Center
where
you can pick up permits and area maps.
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You Will Need: 1. Death Valley National Park Permit I suggest the annual permit at
$40.00. If you consider there are more than 3 million acres of wilderness and over 600 miles of dirt roads
to explore, you will find the annual pass worth the money. (A seven day permit is available for $20.00)
2. Back Country
Camping Permit If you are planning to stay overnight in the park, this permit is free.
And, I Recommend:
1. The "Death Valley Backcountry
Roads" map. This map clearly identifies areas where camping is permitted, dirt roads, and sights to see.
2. If you are planning more than one trip into the park, "Tom Harrison’s
TOPO Map of Death Valley National Park" shows locations for water in the park and additonal road
details. It is available at the visitor’s center for $9.95. |
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After your visit to the Furnace Creek Visitor's Center backtrack to the Dantes View turn-off.
You can park your truck and trailer at the "trailer parking"
area and unload your horses.
The
dirt road for Greenwater Valley starts across the street.
The park requires that you feed "weed free feed" for two days prior to your visit.
This
eliminates any contamination that may occur by exotic plants/seeds in your horse's manure.
Ranger
Charlie Callagan recommends staying on the dirt roads and walking trails.
If your horse is not used to desert walking,
the back country terrain can be tough on him.
Furnace
Creek Wash Road is a 27 mile dirt road with side roads that lead into the mountains,
you can spend the day riding these trails
and exploring the area.
Water is a necessity!
The guide recommends at least two liters for a winter day and more for warmer weather.
Pack smart: water, snacks, warm clothing, a hat, sun block, first aid kit and your camera.
Let someone know
which trails you plan to use and when you plan to return.
Enjoy the freedom, see the sights, and be safe!
There are a few places in the park where horses are not allowed.
This is a short list and includes but is not limited to the following areas:
Mosaic
Canyon, Golden Canyon, Zabriskie Point, the Telescope Peak Trail,
and all sand dunes
including both Eureka Dunes and the Mesquite Flat Dunes near Stovepipe Wells.
For a complete list, please
talk to the rangers at the Visitor’s Center.
If you have any questions contact Ranger Charlie at 760-786-3282.
