Death Valley route via 395

Baker is the long way. I have and would still go through 395/Trona if possible.
Yes there is a long 9.5% grade over Townes Pass. Gear down, go slow and enjoy the ride.

"Right now, the only way to get to Death Valley from Ridgecrest, or from north on Hwy 395 is to go to Lone Pine and take Hwy 136 to 190, or Olancha and take Hwy 190 east. Stop by at Father Crowley Point to look down into Rainbow Canyon, the throat of an ancient volcano, and you’ll go through the other half as you climb up to Townes Pass. "

http://www.maturango.org/janetmuseumpages/deathvalley/How_to_get_here.html

With the road through Trona closed it may not be worth the drive around to Lone Pine. :(

n7bsn wrote:
How's your nerves? Honestly, I did this route in Oct and will NEVER EVER do it again.

You cross two mountain ranges to get from the Owens Valley (395) to Death Valley on 190. With grades reaching 9% in multiple place.

Oh and did I mention the switch-backs.

The Pass-Guide (link) specifically recommends against large vehicles taking this route.

Thank you! thats what I needed to know...15 to BAKER up and over here I come.

How's your nerves? Honestly, I did this route in Oct and will NEVER EVER do it again.

You cross two mountain ranges to get from the Owens Valley (395) to Death Valley on 190. With grades reaching 9% in multiple place.

Oh and did I mention the switch-backs.

The Pass-Guide (link) specifically recommends against large vehicles taking this route.