Join us as we embark on a thrilling three-day adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of Death Valley. From the historic ghost town of Cerro Gordo to the serene Warm Springs, this journey is filled with camaraderie, scenic beauty, and unforgettable experiences.
Setting Off from Lone Pine
As dawn broke over Lone Pine, California, the excitement was palpable. The Metalcloak crew gathered, ready to embark on an unforgettable three-day adventure through the stunning landscapes of Death Valley. The air was crisp, and the mountains loomed majestically in the background, setting the perfect scene for our journey.
Fuelled up and eager to hit the road, our group of eight rigs lined up outside of the Hotel, each vehicle a testament to off-road capability. Among them was the rugged Ineos Grenadier, Danny's charming Betty White JT, and Scott Arentz' powerful JK equipped with a Hemi. Metalcloak's trusty Bronco sat proudly in the mix, ready to tackle whatever terrain lay ahead.
With the sun rising higher, we gathered for a quick briefing. Del and Corey were buzzing with energy, sharing tales of past adventures and what awaited us up ahead. The plan was simple: head to Cerro Gordo, an old ghost town, and meet Brent, the town's caretaker, while enjoying the stunning views along the way.
Meeting the Crew and the Rigs
The crew was a diverse mix of personalities, each bringing their own flair to the adventure. Arentz was already busy airing down his tires, ensuring his JK was primed for the off-road challenges that lay ahead. There was a camaraderie that comes from shared passion, a bond forged through the thrill of exploration.
As we prepped our rigs, I couldn't help but admire the Grenadier. Outfitted with RockSport BLACK shocks and a 2.5" Metalcloak Game-Changer Suspension System, it was a ready to conquer the rocky paths. The prototype skid plates glinted under the sun, hinting at the ruggedness of the journey we were about to undertake.
Once everyone was ready, we set off, the roar of engines resonating through the valley. Each driver was eager to showcase their vehicle's capabilities, and the excitement was infectious. We were not just a group of travelers; we were adventurers, united by our love for the open road.
The Journey to Cerro Gordo
The road to Cerro Gordo was steep and winding, a thrilling ride that tested our skills and our rigs. With Corey and Del providing a live history lesson over the radio, we learned about Cerro Gordo's rich past, how it once thrived with silver mining and contributed to the growth of San Francisco. The stunning vistas that unfolded before us only added to the adventure, each turn revealing another breathtaking panorama.
As we climbed higher, the landscape began to shift. The rocky outcrops and sparse vegetation painted a stark yet beautiful picture, a testament to the rugged beauty of the area. I glanced over at Scott, who was fully immersed in the drive, his focus unwavering as he navigated the narrow paths.
“Look at that view!” someone shouted, breaking the concentration. We all paused, taking in the expansive valley below, a sea of golden hues and rocky formations. It was moments like these that reminded us why we love this lifestyle—nature in its purest form, inviting us to explore every inch.
Exploring the Ghost Town
Arriving at Cerro Gordo felt like stepping back in time. The remnants of the old buildings stood proudly against the vast backdrop, each telling a story of its own. Brent greeted us with a warm smile, his passion for the ghost town evident. He was not just its caretaker but a storyteller, eager to share the town's history and his journey of restoration.
We wandered through the dusty streets, marveling at the newly rebuilt American Hotel, a symbol of Brent's dedication to preserving the town's legacy. The atmosphere was filled with an air of adventure, as if the spirits of the past were watching over us, encouraging us to explore further.
Brent shared tales of the miners who once roamed these streets, their hopes and dreams intertwined with the silver that brought them here. We listened intently, captivated by his stories and the history that surrounded us. A few of us even took the opportunity to leave a small donation of water, a gesture of appreciation for his hard work and commitment to this unique place.
Leaving Cerro Gordo for Panamint Valley
As we wrapped up our exploration, it was time to head down the backside of Cerro Gordo towards Panamint Valley. The descent was a thrilling ride, the rugged terrain challenging yet exhilarating. I could feel the adrenaline pumping as we navigated the narrow paths, our rigs expertly handling the twists and turns.
Corey and Del continued to share insights over the radio, but the focus was now on the journey ahead. We were leaving behind the rich history of Cerro Gordo, but the adventure was far from over. The landscapes transformed around us, revealing new vistas with each curve in the road.
The beauty of the day was striking, the sunlight casting a golden hue over the valley. It was a reminder of why we embarked on this journey—to connect with nature, with each other, and with the thrill of exploration.
Entering Death Valley National Park
As we officially entered Death Valley National Park, a sense of awe washed over the group. This was the moment we had all been waiting for. The vast expanse of the park stretched out before us, a canvas of craggy mountains and sweeping desert landscapes.
Each rig rolled through the entrance, the excitement bubbling as the park's beauty unfolded. We were ready to delve deeper into this stunning wilderness, to uncover its secrets and to create memories that would last a lifetime. The journey was just beginning, and the thrill of adventure awaited us at every turn.
Camping at Panamint Springs
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting vibrant hues across the sky, we arrived at Panamint Springs. The warmth of the valley enveloped us, a stark contrast to the cool mountain air we had just come from. We were ready to set up camp for the night, fuel up, and enjoy the camaraderie that comes with a shared adventure.
Gathering around the campfire, laughter echoed through the valley as stories of past escapades filled the air. It was a perfect evening, the crackling fire providing warmth and light as we shared our dreams and plans for the days ahead. The stars began to twinkle overhead, reminding us of the vastness of the universe and how small we were in comparison.
As we settled in for the night, the sounds of nature surrounded us. It was a peaceful retreat, a moment to recharge before venturing deeper into the wild. The excitement for the next day’s journey to Warm Springs down Saline Valley was palpable, with everyone buzzing about the potential adventures that awaited.
Morning Coffee and Sunrise Views
Morning arrived gently, the sun slowly rising to greet us. It was around six AM when we gathered for our first cup of coffee, the rich aroma filling the air. The sky transitioned from deep indigo to soft pastels, a spectacular show that no one wanted to miss. We all stood in awe, sipping our brews and soaking in the tranquility of the moment.
“What’s the plan for today?” someone asked, breaking the serene silence. The excitement was contagious as we discussed our route to Warm Springs. For many in the group, this was uncharted territory, and the anticipation of exploring new landscapes made our hearts race.
As the sun finally broke the horizon, its rays illuminated the rugged beauty surrounding us. We packed up our gear, energized by the caffeine and the promise of adventure ahead. It was time to hit the trail, to witness the wonders of Death Valley.
Heading to Saline Valley
With our rigs ready and spirits high, we set off towards Saline Valley. The road twisted and turned, a blend of excitement and challenge that kept us on our toes. Corey and Del led the way, their voices over the radio guiding us through the changing terrain.
“We’re heading down into Saline Valley now,” Corey announced, his tone filled with enthusiasm. The bumpy road was a reminder that we were on an adventure, each bump adding to the thrill of the journey.
The landscape transformed around us; the rocky outcrops stood stark against the clear blue sky. We paused briefly at South Pass, taking in the sweeping views of the valley below. It was a moment to appreciate the beauty of our surroundings and the camaraderie that united us.
With each mile, the excitement grew. The anticipation of reaching Warm Springs fueled our drive, and we shared stories and laughter over the radio, keeping the energy alive as we navigated the rugged terrain.
Descending into Saline Valley
The descent into Saline Valley was exhilarating. The road, while bumpy, was manageable, and our rigs handled the terrain with ease. As we traveled deeper into the valley, the unique beauty of the area began to reveal itself.
“Look at that view down there!” I exclaimed, pointing towards the vast expanse of Saline Valley. The golden hues of the desert floor contrasted beautifully with the surrounding mountains, a sight that left us all speechless.
As we approached the entrance to Lippincott Pass, we took a moment to regroup. The landscape was dotted with wildflowers, a reminder of the resilience of nature in such a harsh environment. It was a perfect spot to stretch our legs and share a snack, soaking in the beauty that surrounded us.
“We’re about to hit some washboards,” someone warned, and we all braced ourselves for the bumpy ride ahead. The chatter and laughter continued as we made our way towards Warm Springs, the anticipation building with every passing mile.
Arriving at Warm Springs
Finally, after what felt like an eternity on the bumpy road, we rolled into Warm Springs. The relief was palpable as we parked our rigs and took in the beauty of our surroundings. The sun was high in the sky, casting a warm glow over the area, and the sound of water trickling from the springs was music to our ears.
“This place is amazing!” someone exclaimed, already envisioning the relaxation that awaited us. We set about establishing our camp, eager to unwind after the long drive. The mid-seventies temperature was just right, making it easy to settle in and enjoy the moment.
With the camp set up, we took a moment to explore the upper springs. The atmosphere was serene, perfect for a zen moment as we soaked in the beauty of the natural hot springs. Donkeys wandered nearby, adding a touch of whimsy to our surroundings.
Chilling at Warm Springs
After setting up camp, we kicked back and relaxed, the stress of the world melting away. A game of cornhole broke out, laughter filling the air as we challenged each other for bragging rights. It was a friendly competition, with everyone eager to showcase their skills.
As the day wore on, we found ourselves drawn to the hot springs, the warm water inviting us to unwind. The atmosphere was electric with camaraderie, stories flowing as freely as the water. We shared our hopes for the future and reflected on the adventures that had brought us together.
Warm Springs was more than just a destination; it was a sanctuary, a place that felt alive with energy and history. We embraced every moment, knowing that this was what adventure was all about—a shared experience, a connection to nature, and a bond that would last a lifetime.
Preparing for Steel Pass
As the sun began to rise over the rugged terrain, the excitement in the air was palpable. The crew gathered around their rigs, each person buzzing with anticipation for the day ahead. We were preparing for the ascent over Steel Pass, a highlight of our journey through Death Valley.
Corey, our ever-enthusiastic guide, outlined our route, emphasizing the stunning views we would encounter along the way. “We’ll head up through the upper hot tubs at the marble bath area, then over Steel and drop down into Eureka Dunes,” he explained, his eyes sparkling with excitement. A sense of adventure hung in the air as we made our final checks on our gear and vehicles.
With a few last-minute adjustments, we were ready to hit the trail. The camaraderie of the group was evident, as we shared laughs and stories while securing our supplies. There was a collective understanding that today would be one for the books.
The Adventure Over Steel Pass
The climb up Steel Pass was exhilarating. As we ascended, the terrain shifted beneath us, challenging our driving skills and giving our rigs a workout. The views became increasingly breathtaking, with valleys stretching out beneath us and the mountains towering overhead.
“Getting kinda high and cold up here!” someone shouted over the radio, and we all chuckled, feeling the chill as we reached about five thousand feet. The wind whipped around us, and clouds loomed ominously in the distance, hinting at the unpredictable weather of Death Valley.
We made a quick stop to check our tire pressures. It was crucial to maintain the right pressure for better traction on the rocky terrain. As we gathered around to assess the situation, the camaraderie among the group shone through. “Just a couple pounds,” one of us suggested, and we all nodded in agreement. The newly outfitted Nomad wheels and Patagonia AT Pro tires were performing flawlessly, a testament to our careful preparations.
As we continued, the landscape transformed into a stunning canyon, revealing the beauty of the area. “Just look at that view!” someone exclaimed, urging us to stop for photos. The vibrant colors of the rocks and the expansive sky provided a perfect backdrop, and we took a moment to appreciate the rugged beauty surrounding us.
After navigating some technical sections of the trail, we finally made our way down towards Eureka Dunes.
Exploring Eureka Dunes
Arriving at Eureka Dunes was like stepping into a dream. The towering sand dunes stretched before us, their golden grains glistening under the sun. We pulled off the trail and parked, eager to explore this stunning landscape.
“Let’s grab some lunch before we dive in!” I suggested. We settled down in a sheltered spot, out of the wind, and unpacked our sandwiches. As we ate, we shared stories of past adventures, laughter ringing out against the backdrop of the dunes.
After lunch, the group gathered near the edge of the dunes, eyes wide with wonder. We stood in silence for a moment, taking it all in—the soft curves of sand sculpted by time and wind, glowing golden under the afternoon sun.
“Imagine running these in the Jeep,” someone said, grinning. Heads nodded, and for a moment we all let our minds wander, picturing the thrill. But these dunes are protected, off-limits to any kind of recreation. We respected that—some places are meant to be admired, not conquered.
With one last look, we turned back to the trail. The rest of Death Valley was calling.
Visiting Ubehebe Crater
After our time at Eureka Dunes, we set off towards Ubehebe Crater. The drive was filled with anticipation as we navigated the winding roads. “We’re almost there!” Corey announced over the radio, his enthusiasm infectious.
Upon arrival, the sheer size of the crater took our breath away. The wind whipped fiercely around us, but it didn’t deter our excitement. “Wow, look at that!” I exclaimed, pointing towards the jagged edges of the crater. The contrast of the deep black rock against the vibrant desert backdrop was mesmerizing.
We huddled together, bracing against the wind as we took in the view. “Let’s hike down to the bottom,” someone suggested, and we all smiled, imagining the adventure. But for now, we stayed at the rim, the descent below tempting but untouched.
From the edge, we marveled at the crater’s raw geology—the layers of ancient rock exposed like pages in a history book. The wind roared around us, tugging at our jackets and adding a wild energy to the moment. One day, we promised, we’d make the trek to the bottom. But today, just standing there felt like enough.
Final Night at Mesquite Springs
As the sun began to set, we made our way to Mesquite Springs Campground. The atmosphere was filled with a sense of camaraderie and reflection on the adventures we had shared. “What a journey it has been!” I thought, appreciating the bonds we had formed over the past few days.
Upon arrival, we quickly set up our tents, eager to enjoy one last night under the stars. The wind had calmed down, and the temperature was pleasant, making for a perfect evening. We gathered around the campfire, the flickering flames casting a warm glow on our faces.
As we shared stories and laughter, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for this experience. The beauty of Death Valley, the thrill of adventure, and the friendships made were all part of what made this journey unforgettable. “Here’s to many more adventures together!” I raised my cup, and the group cheered in agreement.
Reflecting on the Journey
The final morning arrived with a sense of bittersweet nostalgia. As we packed up our gear, I took a moment to reflect on our incredible journey through Death Valley. “What a great week it has been,” I thought, feeling a mix of satisfaction and longing.
The weather had been surprisingly cooperative, with only a bit of rain during the night. We exchanged stories of our favorite moments, each one more exhilarating than the last. “I can’t wait for our next adventure,” I said, looking at my companions, knowing that this trip would be one of many.
As we aired up our tires and prepared to hit the road back to Sacramento, I felt a sense of fulfillment. Each mile we traveled was a reminder of the beauty we had experienced and the friendships we had forged. “Until next time, Death Valley!” I waved goodbye as we drove away, excited for the adventures that awaited us in the future.
