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To Teakettle Junction And Beyond In Death Valley National Park

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By Kurt Repanshek - April 22nd, 2016
The Racetrack, Death Valley National Park/Kurt Repanshek

This shot, taken some years back, shows more rocks on the Racetrack playa than we found in March/Kurt Repanshek

There is a place in Death Valley National Park, far, far off the beaten path, where strange things occur. Strange things such as rocks effortlessly coasting across the landscape. Let's take a look at this odd place in a short video.

Now, throughout the years the number of rocks on the Racetrack playa varies. Regardless how many you might find, the trek out there is a great way to spend a day. That said, the drive is not for everyone, and certainly not for all vehicles. The National Park Service points out that the road to Teakettle Junction and beyond is a four-wheel drive route and that your rig should have "at least 15-inch heavy duty tires (with rims)" with good tread, and 12 inches of ground clearance.

Comments

Submitted by Lee Dalton on April 22, 2016 - 8:37am.

A visit to the Racetrack is a great adventure.  But as Kurt points out, it's not a highway leading out there. 

Chunks of chert (flint) in the road can embed themselves in your tire tread and then chew through the tire.  Pssst! Flat tire.  Lose two tires or punch a hole in your oil pan and it's a minimum $1200 tow truck bill.  There is no cell phone coverage to call for help.

Eight ply tires are not a bad idea.

Renting a tough Jeep from Farrabee's at Furnace Creek for $200 or thereabouts is a very, very good idea.  They even hand you a satellite emergency locator beacon you can use to call them for help.  They will come get you for free before you starve or die of thirst.  (Or freeze to death as was the case when I visited the Racetrack at Christmas a couple of years ago.)

 


Submitted by Amarillobymorning on April 22, 2016 - 7:32pm.

That's good to know, Lee. Thanks for adding it. Knowing this is available makes Teakettle Junction a "must" on my list.


Submitted by Cathy Janus on April 23, 2016 - 7:13am.

I agree, we rented from Farabee's & it was a great experience!


Submitted by Duke Raoul on May 8, 2017 - 4:51pm.

Take your time, drive slowly.  It takes 90 minutes to 2 hours at 15-20 miles an hour but you won't blow any tires.  Also air down to 20-25 psi for better control and comfort on the gravel road.   Enjoy the views.  When someone comes racing by in their SUV pull over and smile,  you'll see them again later when they are fixing their flat tire.


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