Originally Posted by cblaisd

The point about rental cars is well-taken, and folks will need to decide how risk-tolerant/averse they are in that regard. It is true that it would a long and expensive tow if you got in trouble.

That said, my friend and I took a rental SUV over the route a few years and encountered nothing that would have needed 4x4 and little in the way of high clearance. Of course desert monsoonal rains can change things so if there is any way to inquire locally, it's probably a good idea.

And you're right, the most spectacular is the western end, but the first eastern part of the trip is simply stunning in its awesome starkness and loneliness (and the the ghost town and mine your pass has you wondering just how hard life would have been for those folks!). I do remember us parking at a wide spot on the eastern half at one point and I swear it was the quietest moment I have ever experienced. Truly memorable.

ETA: This is a nice trip report https://www.desertusa.com/desert-cal...us-canyon.html