NATIONAL PARK SERVICE · news
Death Valley National Park Urges Commercial Drivers to Use Caution on Towne Pass
September 15, 2026 · Source: National Park Service
The National Park Service urges commercial truck drivers to use caution when traveling State Route 190 through Death Valley National Park, particularly on the steep descent from Towne Pass. A tractor-trailer caught fire on SR-190 at approximately 7:45 p.m. Sept. 9 after its brakes overheated while descending about 5,000 feet from Towne Pass.
Read the official NPS sourceWhat Travelers Need to Know
Review the park’s current conditions before departure and again on arrival. Follow posted restrictions and adjust your itinerary to the affected areas.
Dates and operating conditions can change after publication. Check the park’s official visitor information for your travel date.
Traveler guidance by State & Nation Staff Writer.