The best traffic-free bike rides in the Amargosa Range

Currently, there are 3 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes listed in the Amargosa Range. These routes are specifically curated to offer a serene cycling experience away from vehicle traffic, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the unique desert landscape.

The ideal time for no-traffic touring cycling in the Amargosa Range is during the fall and winter months. Temperatures are mild, typically ranging from 72-80 degrees Fahrenheit, making it perfect for cycling and camping. Summer months are extremely hot and generally not recommended for extensive outdoor activity.

Yes, there is one easy-rated no-traffic touring cycling route available. The Artists Drive route is a great option for beginners, offering a relatively flat and short ride through a visually stunning area.

The Amargosa Range offers dramatic and diverse landscapes. Along these routes, you can expect to see surreal salt flats like Badwater Basin Salt Flats, vibrant geological formations in Golden Canyon Trail and Gower Gulch, and the striking Red Cathedral. Elevated viewpoints like Dante's View — 1,669 m also provide breathtaking panoramic vistas of the valley floor.

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are two difficult-rated no-traffic touring cycling routes. These include the Death Valley National Park – Artist's Palette loop from Furnace Creek, which covers over 41 km with significant elevation gain, and the Artist Drive Viewpoint – Artist's Palette loop from Mars Hill, offering a 20 km ride with over 500 meters of ascent.

The Amargosa Range largely falls within Death Valley National Park. While specific cycling permits are not typically required for paved roads, standard park entrance fees apply. For detailed information on park regulations and any specific area restrictions, it is always best to check the official National Park Service website: nps.gov.

Given the desert environment, layering is key. Even in cooler months, daytime temperatures can be pleasant, but evenings can be cold. Wear moisture-wicking clothing, bring sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), and carry extra layers for temperature fluctuations. Always bring plenty of water, as hydration is crucial in this arid region.

Yes, some of the no-traffic touring cycling routes in the Amargosa Range are designed as loops. For instance, the challenging Death Valley National Park – Artist's Palette loop from Furnace Creek and the Artist Drive Viewpoint – Artist's Palette loop from Mars Hill are both circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your path.

Parking is generally available at designated trailheads and visitor centers within Death Valley National Park, which encompasses much of the Amargosa Range. Specific parking information for each route can often be found on the individual route pages on komoot or through official park resources.

The Amargosa Range is renowned for its extensive paved roads that are often described as "practically empty of cars," providing enviable elbow room and a profound sense of solitude. This, combined with the dramatic desert scenery, unique geological formations, and mild winter temperatures, creates a world-class destination for touring cyclists seeking a peaceful, traffic-free experience.

While large waterfalls are rare in this arid region, the Amargosa River, often called the "Crown Jewel of the Mojave Desert," creates rare and lush riparian areas. These unique desert wetlands can feature hot springs and even small, seasonal waterfalls or "hanging gardens" within its canyons, offering a stark and beautiful contrast to the surrounding desert.