Getting Oriented
Mengel Pass sits in Inyo County in the Panamint Range — the high range that forms Death Valley's western boundary. Trona is the closest fuel and supply town, on the western approach via Wildrose Canyon Road. Furnace Creek inside Death Valley NP is the eastern reference point, though the route doesn't approach it directly. The Butte Valley accessed by the pass is one of Death Valley's most isolated valleys, with no through-road connecting it to the rest of the park.
Trail Overview
From Trona, drive east on Trona-Wildrose Road, then south on Wildrose Canyon to the Goler Wash trailhead. The route begins as graded dirt up Goler Wash, climbing through the lower Panamints. Within a few miles the trail tightens into rocky climbs and off-camber rock shelves. Past Geological Society Pass — a less-difficult sub-pass — the route continues into Mengel Pass proper.
The pass itself is the crux: steep, very rocky on both sides, with boulder gardens that have eaten countless vehicle parts. Past the pass, the trail descends into Butte Valley with stops at Greater View Spring, the Geologist's Cabin, and Barker Ranch (still standing despite a 2009 arson fire). Drivers typically run the full out-and-back over two to three days.
Points of Interest
- Goler Wash. The lower entry, named for an 1860s prospector.
- Mengel Pass summit. 4,311 feet. Carl Mengel's grave, a stone cairn, marks the top.
- Geologist's Cabin. A historic stone cabin in Butte Valley, available as informal first-come shelter.
- Greater View Spring. A reliable water source historically used by prospectors. Still flowing.
- Barker Ranch. The Charles Manson Family hideout where they were arrested October 1969. Stone foundations remain after a 2009 fire.
- Striped Butte. A distinctive geologic landmark visible from Butte Valley.
- Russell Camp. Another historic stone cabin in the valley.
Where to Camp
Dispersed roadside camping is allowed throughout the route subject to Death Valley NP's roadside-camping rules. The Geologist's Cabin and Russell Camp can be used as shelters (first-come, no fees, pack out everything). Most travelers camp dispersed in Butte Valley after crossing the pass.
Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Trip
- Travel October through April. Summer heat in the lower elevations exceeds 110°F.
- Modified 4WD with lockers is required. Stock vehicles cannot complete the route safely.
- Travel in two or more vehicles. Recovery is days, not hours.
- Carry full water (one gallon per person per day plus emergency reserve), fuel, and food for 3 to 4 days.
- Cell coverage is absent. Carry a satellite messenger.
- The pass section has moving rock-stack obstacles. Bring a winch and recovery gear.
- Park admission required (Death Valley NP entry fee).
- Respect the historic structures. Do not damage cabins or take artifacts.
- The Barker Ranch site is federally protected. Photos OK; do not enter what remains of structures.
- Contact Death Valley National Park at 760-786-3200 for current conditions.
