Wanted: CA 190 information

We were in Stovepipe a few days after a rental motorhome had burned up in front of the general store -- apparently, the person renting it did not know about downshifting and had ridden his brakes on the long hill over Towne Pass. Uh-oh.

Very twisty and steep. Like others have said "it's a workout".
You didn't say when you would do this. If it's in the summer make sure your cooling system is up to the task.

You really need a good brake on the toad and never let the speed going down get up much.

The easiest downhill into DV is from Amargosa.

lanerd wrote:
Well, you have a problem then and may want to pick another DV entry point.

Leaving Lone Pine (going south/east) and around dry Owens Lake, you'll climb and easy grade over the first range of mountains. However, once on top you will encounter a very steep and twisty down grade with several hair pin turns that leads you down to Panamint Springs and across the Panamint Valley floor and then up another long and steep grade (9%, I think) called Towns Pass to the top of the Panamint Range. Once on top, there is another long and steep (6%) grade that goes from over 5000 ft to 250 ft "below" sea level to Stovepipe Wells in just a few miles.

This hwy is not for the faint of heart, and must have a good running vehicle that is not prone to getting hot during long climbs.

Ron

Totally agree. We left DV heading to Bishop and twisty, narrow with drop offs are accurate. One of the best roller coaster rides in the state. I've done this road several times, it's OK for me , but a lot of work.

DW is a good passenger not much bothers her. Hwy 190 gets her attention :E

Well, you have a problem then and may want to pick another DV entry point.

Leaving Lone Pine (going south/east) and around dry Owens Lake, you'll climb and easy grade over the first range of mountains. However, once on top you will encounter a very steep and twisty down grade with several hair pin turns that leads you down to Panamint Springs and across the Panamint Valley floor and then up another long and steep grade (9%, I think) called Towns Pass to the top of the Panamint Range. Once on top, there is another long and steep (6%) grade that goes from over 5000 ft to 250 ft "below" sea level to Stovepipe Wells in just a few miles.

This hwy is not for the faint of heart, and must have a good running vehicle that is not prone to getting hot during long climbs.

Ron

No sweat with an engine brake and using lower gears. Have fun.