Death Valley National Park News Release

Lower Wildrose Road Reopens

Caution Advised on Narrow Unpaved Road

For Immediate Release: June 3, 2026

Contact: [email protected]

NPS photo

Superintendent Mike Reynolds demonstrates the scale of damage to Lower Wildrose Road after the remnants of Hurricane Hilary caused flash flooding in August 2023.

 

DEATH VALLEY, Calif. – The National Park Service (NPS) has reopened Lower Wildrose Road, which has been closed for nearly three years due to extensive flood damage. The narrow, unpaved road is restricted to vehicles shorter than 25 feet. Also known as Trona-Wildrose Road, it provides access to high-elevation areas of Death Valley National Park.

In August 2023, the remnants of Hurricane Hilary triggered flash floods that damaged most roads in the park. The storm destroyed much of the asphalt on Lower Wildrose Road and carved a 9‑foot‑deep drop across the roadway.

The NPS is still working to repair and reopen roads damaged by major floods in 2022, 2023 and 2025. Interim repairs now allow visitors to travel Lower Wildrose Road, and drivers can still see remnants of the former pavement in some places.

Although Lower Wildrose Road was previously paved, it has reopened as an unpaved road. Drivers should slow down, use caution when passing oncoming vehicles, and be aware of soft shoulders. Stairs at Wildrose Station picnic area remain unsafe because of flood erosion.

The park plans additional stabilization work on the road in the coming years. The road will remain unpaved, but work will be done to reduce the impacts of future floods. Visitors should check the park website for current conditions and closures at nps.gov/deva.

nps.gov

About the National Park Service.  Established in 1916, the National Park Service preserves America’s most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of current and future generations. Learn more at nps.gov.   

NPS photo
A pickup truck shows the width of Lower Wildrose Road. Now the road is below the grade of the original road, which can be seen to the left of the pickup truck.

NPS photo
Missing pavement on Lower Wildrose Road after damage from 2023 Hurricane Hilary