Death Valley National Park officials continue to address damages caused by 2023’s Hurricane Hilary. Popular roads and attractions in the park are set to close.
Emigrant Canyon Road
Starting January 6, 2025, Emigrant Canyon Road will close for further repairs aimed at providing long-term protection against future flash floods. In 2023, Hurricane Hilary caused major flooding and extensive erosion in the park.
This phase of construction involves burying concrete barriers and rock-filled gabions (cages made of wire mesh and filled with concrete, sand, or rocks) in the road shoulders to safeguard the most vulnerable sections.
The work is funded by the Federal Highway Administration’s Emergency Relief for Federally Owned Roads program and the National Park Service’s Disaster Supplemental funding.
During the construction period, which is expected to last until early March 2025, there will be no road access to several popular destinations, including Wildrose Campground, Wildrose Charcoal Kilns, Wildrose Peak Trail, Thorndike Campground, Mahogany Flat Campground, and Telescope Peak Trail. Additionally, Lower Wildrose Road remains closed due to flood damage, further limiting access to these areas.
Superintendent Mike Reynolds emphasized the necessity of these repairs, stating, “This construction includes armoring to protect the road from flash floods. Climate change is increasing the frequency of severe floods. Unfortunately, we need to close the road now so the work can happen.”
Bonnie Clare Road and Scotty’s Castle closures
In addition, Bonnie Clare Road and Scotty’s Castle are closed due to flood recovery work. The park reports that these popular areas are unlikely to open before late 2026. No access is permitted. (No foot, bicycle, motorcycle, vehicle, etc. use allowed.)
Be aware and plan accordingly
Visitors planning trips to Death Valley National Park during this period should adjust their itineraries accordingly and check for updates on road conditions and accessibility. The National Park Service is committed to restoring safe access to these areas while enhancing the infrastructure to withstand future environmental challenges.
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Thank you for the news, Gail! 🙂 Happy new year and safe travels! 🙂
How did hurricane Hillary do this from across the country?
Hi, James. According to the National Park Service: “Starting in the late afternoon on Saturday, August 19th, 2023 and continuing on and off until Monday, August 21st, Death Valley National Park was hit by the remnants of Hurricane Hilary. This included heavy rain, which led to flooding in many areas of the park and a parkwide closure for safety.” According to the National Hurricane Center: “Hilary brought historic rainfall totals and catastrophic flooding impacts to portions of the Baja California peninsula and the southwestern United States.” Have a great day. 😀 –Diane at RVtravel.com