Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
9,556.00 ft (2,912.67 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
28.00 mi (45.06 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Starting in Death Valley, this 28-mile out-and-back leads through Johnson Canyon and ascends nearly 7,000 feet to Panamint Pass at the end of the canyon. 

The first (and last) 11 miles are along Johnson Canyon Road, a backcountry dirt road. The middle section climbs up and down along a rugged, unmaintained, cross-country trail. 

Panamint Pass is the turnaround point where you will retrace your steps, descending the steep, rocky terrain back to the start. 

With its flowing springs and perennial streams, Johnson Canyon is an important habitat for a number of plants and animals, including some that are currently threatened or endangered, such as the desert bighorn sheep. 

Also within the canyon, the route passes by Hungry Bill's Ranch, named after a Shoshone man who lived there with his family in the late 1800s.

This is a strenuous route best suited for experienced hikers looking for a rugged backcountry adventure. 

Note that the conditions of the trail, as well as the availability of water, can vary from year to year. Be sure to check with the local land management agency for the most current information before heading out. 

TRAILHEAD LOCATION

Johnson Canyon is located off of West Side Road, one of several backcountry roads within the Death Valley Wilderness.  

CAMPING

No camping allowed within the first 2 miles of Johnson Canyon. 

WHEN TO VISIT

To avoid extreme temperatures, spring and fall are likely to be the best seasons.

CONSIDERATIONS

  • You may encounter some motor vehicles along Johnson Canyon Road.

  • Taking this route involves extreme changes in elevation and varying degrees of temperature. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

NPS - Backpacking Death Valley

Ghost Towns of Death Valley

Death Valley Backcountry and Wilderness Access Map

 

Logistics + Planning

Congestion

Low

Parking Pass

National Park Pass

Open Year-round

Yes

Days

2

Pros

Solitude. Scenic Vistas. Historical Sites.

Cons

Sections of unmainted trail can be difficult to navigate.

Trailhead Elevation

-240.00 ft (-73.15 m)

Highest point

8,096.00 ft (2,467.66 m)

Features

Backcountry camping
Historically significant
Wildlife
Big vistas
Geologically significant
Native artifacts
Mine

Typically multi-day

Yes

Permit required

No

Location

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