For RV travelers seeking a unique blend of natural wonders, historic sites, and the thrill of the open road, Nevada’s “Death Drive” offers an unforgettable journey.
This 370-mile loop, starting and ending in Las Vegas, takes you through some of the most captivating landscapes of Southern Nevada and Eastern California.
Why it’s called the “Death Drive”
The name “Death Drive” is derived from its passage through Death Valley National Park, one of the most extreme environments in North America. Despite its ominous name, the route is safe and well-traveled, offering RVers a chance to experience the stark beauty of the desert landscape.
Route overview
Starting in Las Vegas, the Death Drive leads westward on State Route 159, passing through the stunning Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area.
The route continues to Pahrump, a convenient spot for restocking supplies. From Pahrump, travelers head into Death Valley National Park, exploring its unique geological features before looping back to Las Vegas via Beatty.
Must-see attractions
• Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area: Just a short drive from Las Vegas, this area is renowned for its vibrant red rock formations and scenic drives. RVers can enjoy a 13-mile scenic loop with multiple viewpoints and hiking trails.
• Pahrump: This town serves as a gateway to Death Valley and offers amenities such as RV parks, wineries, and casinos. It’s an excellent place to rest and refuel before venturing into the national park.
• Death Valley National Park: As the lowest, hottest, and driest national park in the U.S., Death Valley boasts unique landscapes like Badwater Basin, Zabriskie Point, and the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. The park’s vastness and variety make it a highlight of the drive.
• Rhyolite Ghost Town: Near Beatty, Rhyolite is one of Nevada’s most famous ghost towns. Visitors can explore remnants of early 20th-century buildings, including a train depot and the iconic Bottle House.
Considerations for RVers
While the Death Drive offers breathtaking scenery and unique experiences, RV travelers should consider the following:
- Road conditions: Most of the route is on well-maintained highways suitable for RVs. However, some areas within Death Valley may have narrower roads or steep grades. Always check current road conditions before traveling.
- Weather: Death Valley is known for extreme heat, especially during summer months. Plan your trip during cooler seasons and ensure your RV’s cooling systems are in optimal condition.
- Amenities: While towns like Pahrump and Beatty offer services, amenities within Death Valley are limited. Stock up on essentials before entering the park and be prepared for limited connectivity.
You should go!
For RVers, the “Death Drive” presents an opportunity to experience diverse landscapes—from the vibrant hues of Red Rock Canyon to the otherworldly expanses of Death Valley. The route is rich in history, geology, and natural beauty, making it a rewarding journey for those seeking adventure and tranquility alike.
Nevada’s Death Drive is more than just a road trip; it’s an exploration of some of the most iconic and remote parts of the American Southwest. With proper preparation and an adventurous spirit, RV travelers can create lasting memories on this remarkable route.
Have you traveled the Death Drive? Tell us about it in the comments that follow.
YOU’LL ALSO ENJOY:
- Free Nevada camping near Valley of Fire State Park
- Rhyolite, Nevada—An easy ghost town for RVers to visit
- Visit Raquel Welch’s underwear at Nevada’s oldest saloon
- Add RVing on Nevada’s wacky Extraterrestrial Highway to your bucket list
- FREE Nevada campground with hot springs!
- Creepy! Nevada’s Lovelock Cave’s unexplained red-haired cannibalistic giants
##RVT1202
My wife and I did this trip back in 1975 for our honeymoon. (Got married in Carson City, license # 000002, a brand-new Nevada form at the time.)
Back then my “camper” was my 1972 Blazer 4×4. I removed the rear seat — a standard Japanese Futon (shipped back to the US with my household goods, courtesy of Uncle Sam) just fit, from behind the front seats back to the inside of the tailgate and between the rear fenderwells. A coleman stove and a cooler comprised our “kitchen.”
Pahrump, Rhyolite, Beatty, Furnace Creek, Scotty’s Castle…and I just HAD to see Zabriskie Point! (See the movie?)
A memorable trip that I still recall after all these years!
Happy 50th Walt!!
Stay safe, Joe
That used to be part of our routine driving. We worked & lived seasonally in Death Valley back in the early 80s. Got married in Pahrump, shopped in Vegas, visited many places around Death Valley over the 3 winters & half a summer there. Had our kid in Lone Pine & Bishop. Yes, 1 kid, 2 hospitals, but that’s a whole other story.
It’s a great drive with beautiful views, take it!
Thank you for the discussion, Gail! You have convinced me that the drive is worthwhile and I should do parts of it in the Jeep and not the RV. 🙂 Have a great weekend and safe travels!