Horseback Riding

High heat, harsh terrain, and lack of water make most of Death Valley an unwelcoming place for horses.

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Horseback Riding Details

High heat, harsh terrain, and lack of water make most of Death Valley an unwelcoming place for horses. However, there are some backcountry dirt roads that are suitable for riding, along with open wilderness off of Harry Wade Road in the southern end of Death Valley National Park. Horses, mules, burros, llamas, and alpacas are allowed on all backcountry dirt roads, undeveloped wilderness routes, and cross country. They also are allowed on the Wildrose and Ubehebe Peak trails, and the Indian Pass, Fall Canyon and Cottonwood/Marble Canyon hiking routes. Stock is not allowed on other park trails, in developed campgrounds, picnic areas, on paved roads, on the Badwater salt flats, or in any sand dunes. Stock is not allowed to graze on native vegetation, must be controlled at all times, and riders are responsible for removing all manure or spreading it out over a large area. Overnight riding groups are limited to 12 people and no more than 8 stock. A campsite frequently used by stock parties is located on Harry Wade Road about 12.5 miles south of Ashford Junction, on the south side of the road just east of the Amargosa River crossing. More casual riders can rent horses at Furnace Creek Stables.

Difficulty

Open

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