Seek out a remote and unusual tribute to a junction’s namesake, a display of kettles from distant lands.
At the intersection of Hidden Valley Road and Racetrack Road, Teakettle Junction is a landmark at an elevation of around 4,150 feet (1,260 metres) in Death Valley National Park. Pebbles and shrubland adorn the dusty, arid land that is framed by distant mountains. Inspect the shiny and colourful kettles that dangle from ropes draped around the sign.
Visitors and campers are encouraged to hang up their own kettles with messages revealing the travellers’ hometowns or previous destinations. Note the email addresses written on the hanging kettles and snap photos to send to the previous owners. Rangers remove many of the kettles when the display becomes too full or heavy, so the exhibit is always changing. Visit again on your way back past the sign to check for different kettles and messages.
Admire the various patterns and styles of the cooking implements and imagine the experiences their one-time owners had in the wilderness before leaving the kettles behind. If you’re travelling with camping material and can spare a kettle, consider leaving it here for others to find.
The origin of the junction’s name and tradition isn’t known. One theory suggests the kettles were a symbol to inform passersby of water in close proximity. Near the sign chat with others donating kettles or enjoy the tranquility in this remote spot when no one else is around.
While in the area, drive or hike to the nearby Lost Burro Mine to see the insides of this preserved relic, featuring wooden cabins and tools. Hike with your family up the enclosing mountains.
Teakettle Junction is located in the northwestern corner of Death Valley National Park. Reach the spot by driving northwest from Stovepipe Wells for 65 miles (105 kilometres). Continue north to see peaks such as Tin Mountain, Dry Mountain and Waucoba Mountain.
