“Mega-Adventure Alert: Death Valley’s Most Epic Road Closure Unfolds – Get Ready for the Ultimate Detour”

**Death Valley National Park to Close Road Due to Post-Storm Repairs**

Death Valley National Park, located in California and Nevada, will close a significant canyon road, Emigrant Canyon Road, starting January 6 to repair damage caused by a major storm in 2023. The road closure is expected to last through early March, during which time there will be no road access to the Wildrose area, including the Wildrose Campground, Wildrose Charcoal Kilns, and other popular trails and campgrounds.

The closure is a direct result of the damage caused by Hurricane Hilary, which slammed California as a tropical storm and dumped over 2 inches of rain on Death Valley in a single day. This amount of rainfall is more than the area typically receives in an entire year. The storm caused flooding, washed away trails, undercut pavement, and filled collapsed roads with gravel.

On Emigrant Canyon Road, the floodwaters extensively damaged infrastructure, leaving drop-offs of up to six feet deep. Although the road initially reopened in the spring of last year on a temporary basis, more work needs to be done to ensure its long-term stability. As part of the construction, officials will bury concrete barriers and rock-filled gabions in the road shoulders to protect it from potential future flash floods.

“This construction includes armoring to protect the road from flash floods. Climate change is increasing the frequency of severe floods,” said Mike Reynolds, the park’s superintendent. “Unfortunately, we need to close the road now so the work can happen.”

The closure is a crucial step in preserving the park’s infrastructure and ensuring visitor safety. Death Valley National Park is known for its unique landscape and climate, being both the driest place in North America and the hottest place on Earth. While winter is considered one of the best times to visit the park due to its mild temperatures and fewer crowds, spring brings a stunning display of wildflowers.

**FAQ**

Q: When will Emigrant Canyon Road reopen?
A: The road is expected to reopen in early March, pending completion of the repairs.

Q: What areas will be affected by the road closure?
A: The Wildrose area, including the Wildrose Campground, Wildrose Charcoal Kilns, Wildrose Peak Trail, Thorndike Campground, Mahogany Flat Campground, and Telescope Peak Trail, will be inaccessible during the closure.

Q: What caused the damage to Emigrant Canyon Road?
A: The damage was caused by Hurricane Hilary, which slammed California as a tropical storm and dumped over 2 inches of rain on Death Valley in a single day.

Q: Why is this closure necessary?
A: The closure is necessary to repair and protect the road from future damage due to climate change-induced flash floods.

**Conclusion**

The road closure at Death Valley National Park is a critical step in ensuring the long-term stability and safety of the park’s infrastructure. Visitors are encouraged to plan alternative routes and adjust their itineraries accordingly. The park’s unique landscape and climate make it a fascinating destination, and by taking necessary measures to protect its infrastructure, officials can ensure the park remains a popular destination for years to come.