Racetrack

The Racetrack can be called by many names when it refers to Death Valley National Park, California. Racetrack Valley Road and Racetrack Playa are similar, but mean different things. This particular article will discuss Racetrack Valley Road. In order to go on the road you will need a 4x4 vehicle with high clearance. The high clearance is required due to loose gravel, rocks, and washboard.

Flat tires are highly common, thus you should have a full size spare and your jacks. Road conditions are determined by the weather. During a dry season you should expect the road to be dry and open. If the weather has been rainy it can be closed. Distance wise it is 28 miles to The Racetrack, with a start at Ubehebe Crater Road. Camping is offered two miles in on Teakettle Junction near the southern end of the Racetrack.

The Racetrack (Playa) is a dry lakebed with mysterious moving rocks. It is not possible to drive or walk on the lakebed when it is wet. It is actually never possible to drive on it as it would damage the moving rocks. The NPS does not allow driving on it and you could be heavily fined.