Death Valley: Extra Caution for Truckers on State Route 190

If your road trip takes you into Death Valley behind the wheel of a big vehicle, here's something to know before you set out. As of September 15, 2026, park rangers are renewing their call for caution on State Route 190, the road that crosses the park from east to west. The trouble spot is the long descent from Towne Pass.

Here's what prompted it. On September 9, around 7:45 p.m., a tractor-trailer caught fire on SR-190. The cause was brakes that overheated during a descent of about 5,000 feet from Towne Pass. That kind of long, steady grade puts brakes through the wringer, especially on a heavy, loaded rig.

So what does it mean for you? If you're driving an RV, a camper van, or towing a trailer, the advice is simple. Manage your speed right from the top of the pass. Downshift and let engine braking do the work instead of riding the pedal the whole way down. That's the best way to avoid the overheating that started the fire.

This advice is aimed mainly at commercial truck drivers, but the principle holds for any sizable vehicle. Death Valley's already extreme heat only adds to the strain on your brakes.

The good news is that SR-190 stays open and nothing is stopping you from visiting. This is a driving tip, not a closure. In a regular car you're not especially affected, though a little restraint on the way down never hurts.

To plan your visit with confidence, you'll find all the practical details in the Death Valley park guide. And if you're thinking of stringing together several parks, take a look at our road trip itinerary that runs through this one to map out your route.