Historic Stovepipe Well is a 0.2 mile loop trail located near Death Valley, California that offers scenic views and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking and walking.
Death Valley National Park charges a fee to enter. Fees are $30 per vehicle or $25 per motorcycle. If you are entering on foot, horse, or bike the fee is $15 per person. You can also purchase a park specific annual pass for $55. This waterhole, the only one in the sand dune area of Death Valley, was at the junction of the two Indian trails. During the bonanza days of Rhyolite and Skidoo, it was the only known water source on the cross-valley road. When sand obscured the spot, a length of stovepipe was inserted as a marker.
As others have said, it’s not a hike, there is no loop trail and there is no reason to make this a loop trail. Read the plaque and walk a few feet to the well. Most should find the history of this well/area to be very interesting. In fact, if not for reading about the history, I’d give it one star. It’s only 5 minutes (round trip) out of your way from the main road.
Great historical and historically great views. Must see. Easy walk around. Don't go too far though, there's vegetation you might disturb in the ground, according to a ranger I crossed paths with
Not much of a hike, or even a walk for that matter, but if you have a bit of time, it's not an uninteresting spot to visit. Nothing to go out of your way for, but if you happen to be driving past along the North Hwy, it's worth the short detour. I would give 3.5 stars if it was possible.