Park Officials Warn Motorcyclists: Death Valley’s Summer Heat Can Be Deadly

As temperatures in Death Valley National Park soar toward their summer extremes, park officials are urging motorcyclists to reconsider visiting the park on two wheels during the hottest months of the year.

In a statement released ahead of the summer travel season—and in conjunction with Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month—Death Valley Superintendent Mike Reynolds warned that “motorcycle riders are injured or killed due to the extreme conditions every year in Death Valley.”

The park, known for holding the record for the highest temperature ever recorded on Earth, regularly sees summer highs above 120°F (49°C), with peaks reaching up to 130°F (54°C). While the heat poses risks to all visitors, motorcyclists are especially vulnerable due to the physical demands of riding and the insulating effect of protective gear.

“These conditions are not just uncomfortable—they’re dangerous,” Reynolds said. “Your safety is our priority, and we want you to return home safely so you can ride for the long haul.”

Death Valley has seen multiple incidents in recent years where motorcyclists have succumbed to heat-related illnesses. In July 2023, a motorcyclist died of heatstroke near Furnace Creek, and in 2021, two riders were hospitalized after collapsing during a midday ride on Badwater Road. In each case, the intense heat and remote terrain delayed emergency response and complicated rescue efforts.

Park rangers note that the illusion of cooling caused by airflow while riding disappears once the heat index exceeds 99°F (37°C), meaning even high-speed riding offers no relief. This creates a dangerous situation where riders may not feel symptoms of heat illness until it’s too late.

For those who still choose to ride through the park during summer, officials urge extra caution and offer the following safety tips:

• Travel during cooler hours, ideally before 10 a.m.
• Take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned locations.
• Stay hydrated and carry extra water.
• Review park alerts and plan routes in advance—cell service is unreliable.
• Ride in the center of the lane and single file to maintain safe spacing on narrow roads.

While Death Valley remains a bucket-list destination for many motorcyclists, park officials recommend planning rides during the cooler months, from October to April, when the climate is far safer for travel.

For updated information on park conditions and safety guidelines, riders can visit the Death Valley Safety and NPS Motorcycle Safety pages.