Hunter Mountain Road

Hunter Mountain Road is a 25.8-mile out-and-back located in the southwest area of the Cottonwood Mountains within the Panamint Range in Death Valley National Park. It is one of several old mining roads that remain in the area and allow outdoor enthusiasts to travel back in time, enjoy a relatively undisturbed wilderness, and explore a unique natural landscape.This route passes through a remote area with beautiful views, steep ups and downs, and an overall elevation gain of 4,289 feet.Hunter Mountain Road lies off Saline Valley Road, which can be accessed from Highway 190. The road winds through open valleys and rises steeply to a plateau covered in pinyon-juniper pine forests. It crosses several spur roads/trails leading to various locations and areas, including Hunter Mountain, Cottonwood Canyon, and Marble Canyon. Among its many features are scenic vistas, historic mining sites, and access to some of Death Valley National Park's most remote areas. CONSIDERATIONSAfter a rainstorm, the terrain can become muddy and impassable. Hunter Mountain Road is infrequently visited, but open to high clearance and 4-wheel drive vehicles. WHEN TO VISITLate spring and fall are ideal times to visit this area. The road can become impassable in winter and early spring due to mud, ice, and snow. The summer can bring extreme heat in the lower elevations where there is little shade and water. No matter when you visit, be sure to check the current conditions at one of the visitor centers before heading out. CAMPING AND PERMITSVisitors who plan to stay overnight in the backcountry are asked to fill out a free backcountry camping permit. Permits are available at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center and the Stovepipe Wells Ranger Station.Furnace Creek Visitor Center is open 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m, daily. The Stovepipe Wells Ranger Station does not have regular operating hours. The hours and days they are open depend on the temperature and staffing. Call 1-760-786-3200 for current information and status.WILDERNESS REGULATIONSThe following is a list of Wilderness specific regulations that are critical for the protection of this fragile environment. Please visit https://www.nps.gov/deva/learn/management/rules-and-regulations.htm, for a more comprehensive list. Vehicles are not allowed to travel off-road.Bicycles and other motorized vehicles are not permitted in designated Wilderness. Pets are not allowed in the wilderness or on trails. Hunting and trapping is prohibited. The use of drones is prohibited.Theft and vandalism are prohibited. Visitors are not allowed to collect or disturb any natural materials such as rocks, plants, or animals. ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONBackcountry and Wilderness MapDeath Valley National Park Visitor GuideBackcountry Camping General Information. NPS - Backcountry Camping Areas