Ashford Mill Death Valley National Park California

The Ashford Mill ruins are visible to those driving up route 178 to Badwater Basin and Furnace Creek in Death Valley National Park. The ruins rest on the valley floor at an elevation of 121 feet below sea level. They serve as a picturesque example of the rigors of life in this harsh desert.

In 1914, Ashford Mill was built to process gold from the Ashford Mine, located in the mountains to the east. Like many desert mines, Ashford went through several owners with long breaks in production. Today, the ruin of Ashford Mill can be explored in under ten minutes. The site also holds the distinction of being the southernmost bathroom in Death Valley National Park, so it may be worth stopping for other reasons.

Those with high clearance vehicles may also explore Ashford Mine. A dirt road directly across from Ashford Mill heads east for three miles. From here it is a 1.5-mile hike to the old mine.

Ashford Mill
Ashford Mill Ruins

To get to Ashford Mill: The ruins are located just off Badwater Road 25 miles north of the southern park entrance and 27 miles south of Badwater Basin. From Furnace Creek, drive 44.5 miles south on Badwater Road and turn west at the sign into the parking area for Ashford Mill.

Ashford Mill address: Badwater Road, Death Valley National Park, Death Valley, CA 92328
Ashford Mill coordinates: 35.9209, -116.6813 (35° 55′ 15″N 116° 40′ 52.5″W)

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These photos were taken in May of 2010. Click to enlarge.
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Tagged with · Mines · National Parks · Ruins

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