Saline Valley Road-Death Valley NP

00:00     Title
00:17     Boxcar Cabin
02:36     South Pass
07:26     Saline Valley
13:06     To Marble Canyon Mining Camp
19:51     To Big Pine
21:43     Fin

​This video features scenery along the 100 mile dirt road that runs through the vast Saline Valley. Most of this gravel road is well maintained and a reliable high ground clearance vehicle is recommended. The journey goes from Boxcar Cabin north to the Big Pine Recreation Area in California. Parts of this road traverse BLM Public Lands, Death Valley National Park and the Inyo National Forest. Each agency has its own regulations that are good to know. There are also private properties in Saline Valley and some cover natural springs. There are no services and data signals are minimal, so it is best to pack extra water and emergency supplies in case the unexpected occurs.

Saline Valley Road offers plenty of panoramic views and there are several historic places to experience along the way. The Boxcar Cabin is the first to be encountered when heading north from Highway 190. Prospectors moved the old boxcar to this site back in the early 1900s and several abandoned mine shafts can be seen throughout the hills. After the mining boom ended, the old abandoned Boxcar Cabin became a place for trekkers to shelter during foul weather. The old boxcar is basically governed by unwritten hostel rules. This means if upkeep or cleaning needs done, a visitor should take on the task. Visitors often leave food, snacks, books, motor oil and other necessities in the cabin for those who are short on supplies. Prospector shelters like Boxcar Cabin are a common site along western backcountry trails, so be sure to check it out!

From Boxcar Cabin the road goes uphill through a picturesque Joshua Tree forest on the way to South Pass. Breathtaking views of the Panamint Valley can be found along the crest line, so be sure to pack a camera for the ride. From this point it is all downhill to Saline Valley on a winding canyon road. Upon arrival in Saline Valley, the first site to look for is the old salt mining tramway and loading dock foundations. The signage details the history of salt mining in this area. 

The Saline Valley Warm Springs is the main attraction and it is not pictured in this video. This oasis is located on a side road that goes toward Eureka Dunes. A campground and facilities are located onsite. Wam Springs is officially clothing optional, so publishing pictures does pose a problem. The Warm Springs road is rough and a high ground clearance 4x4 is best for the task. For those who yearn to continue onward to Eureka Dunes, a 4x4 with wide tires and rim locks will likely be needed for conquering the deep sand during the approach. There are many other side trails along Saline Valley Road and some are treacherous, so doing some research ahead of time is best.

The Saline Valley is a large flat expanse surrounded by towering mountains. This region is perfect for those who seek peace, quiet and a refrain from modern world. The geology of the surrounding mountains is fascinating to ponder over and the erosive forces are on full display. This diverse desert valley environment features a salt lake and salt marsh where many unique species of flora and fauna can be observed. The north end of the valley boasts picturesque dunes that are equally impressive. 

The trip from the Saline Valley north to Marble Canyon and Big Pine is easy going when dry, but winter snow can interfere with plans. All sorts of ancient lava flows can be seen along this road as it gains elevation. Several old west mining sites can be spotted and the old Marble Canyon Mining Camp is well worth exploring on foot. From this point it is an easy drive through the Inyo National Forest to the paved road that goes to Big Pine. Goods and services are located nearby along Highway 395. The Mt Whitney Portal, Alabama Hills, Mono Basin and Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest are in this area, so the adventures do not have to end here!