Steel Pass - Accessing one of the Most Scenic RoutEs in the U.S
Steel Pass road was named one of the most scenic routes in the U.S. by Outside Online. This nearly 49-mile (74 km)route winds through some of the most remote, rugged, and breathtaking terrain in Death Valley National Park.
The trail starts at Saline Valley Hot Springs, climbs to an elevation of 5,111 ft (1,557 meters) at Steel Pass, and then descends through Dedeckera Canyon into Eureka Valley. At the end of the trail, you’ll find the Eureka Sand Dunes—3 miles long, 1 mile wide, and towering as the tallest sand dunes in California (and possibly North America).
Traveling here is a great adventure, but remember there’s no cell service, the terrain doesn’t cut you any slack, and if something goes sideways, you’d better be ready. Also, longer-wheelbase vehicles may struggle through Dedeckera Canyon.
If you’re thinking about tackling Steel Pass, here’s some info to know before you go.
What to Expect:
Scenery That’s Worth It: Expansive desert landscapes, amazing sand dunes, dramatic rock formations, and skies so clear you’ll feel like you can reach out and grab the stars.
A Mixed Bag of Terrain: Sandy washes, rocky climbs, narrow passes, and a few technical spots where tire placement matters.
Zero Cell Service: If you need help, you’ll have to rely on your gear—or someone finding you.
National Park Rules Apply: Entry fees, camping rules, and Leave No Trace principles all come into play here.
Essential Gear for the adventure
Like any off-road adventure, there is standard gear that you should always have with you and know how to use.
Recovery Gear: Winch, tow straps, soft shackles, and traction boards.
Spare Tire & Tools: A full-size spare tire, a hi-lift jack, and the tools to change it.
Navigation Tools: A solid GPS and an old-school paper map for backup
Air Compressor: For airing down and airing back up (trust me, you’ll need it).
Water & Food: At least 1 gallon of water per person, per day, and snacks that won’t turn to mush in the heat. Remember that water can be scarce in this area. You should also always carry water with you when you are hiking out here too.
First Aid Kit: Remember, if you get injured out here, it may take a while for Search and Rescue teams to get to you, and you want to have something more than band-aids with you.
Satellite Communicator: Devices like Garmin inReach or SPOT X, as well as some newer cell phones (such as Apple iPhone) let you send messages, share your location, and call for help if needed.
Make sure you know how to use these before you leave cell service!
Weather on Steel Pass
Temperatures fluctuate wildly based on the season.
Summer: Hot. Like, 120°F hot. It’s not a good time to be out there.
Winter: Cold. Freezing temps are common at night, and you might encounter snow at higher elevations.
Spring & Fall: These are the ideal seasons. Temperatures are milder, and conditions are generally more stable.
Also even though rain is rare out here, but when it does rain, flash floods are possible, so check the forecast before you go!
Trail Driving Tips
A remote trail like Steel Pass isn’t a place to wing it. Keep these in mind:
Take Your Time
Tire Placement Matters: Especially on rocky or narrow sections. Use a spotter if needed to help with navigation over obstacles.
Airing Down is your friend: If you’re not airing down your tires, you’re fighting the trail instead of working with it. Airing down can help traction and tire protection (softer tires are more likely to flex over rocks rather than get punctured by them)
Don’t Go Solo: It is always safer to travel with another vehicle. It also goes without saying that you should tell someone at home what your plans are and when you will be back.
When to Call for Recovery Help
Even the best-prepared adventurers can run into trouble:
Mechanical Failures: Overheating, broken axles, suspension damage.
Stuck Situations: Sand pits, loose gravel, or sketchy ledges.
Tread Lightly
Pack It Out: Don’t leave trash behind.
Stay on Marked Trails: Not only is driving off established roads in Death Valley National Park illegal, off-trail driving also damages fragile ecosystems and archeological history.
Respect the Land: Saline Valley and Eureka Vally are full of history—don’t leave your mark where it doesn’t belong, please be respectful any indigenous artwork or archeological sites you may see. Remember it is illegal to take any artifacts, historical materials, rocks or other natural objects you find.
Pro Tip: Take the photos, enjoy the views, and leave the place exactly as you found it.
Final Thoughts: Respect the Trail, Enjoy the Ride
Steel Pass isn’t for everyone, but if you’re prepared, it’s unforgettable. Take your time, respect the trail, and know when to call for backup.
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