Hunting for Ghost Towns - Death Valley Overland Adventure

On this 3rd leg of our Death Valley adventure we are in search of an old ghost town, continue to explore some technical and scenic trails, camp in an old abandoned cabin and cook up some delicious food at camp.
Part 1 of this Adventure: • Exploring Abandoned Mi...
Part 2 of this Adventure: • Searching for Historic...
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[@LaddGardner4]

You can tell Marco has a heart bigger than the great outdoors. Love watching him watch the guys hoovering up his great food to make sure they're happy. Marco is a class act.

[@jasonlovell3934]

Marco check the steering shaft that runs from the wheel to the gearbox. There is some kind of coupler in there that can twist with a hard impact from a tire on a rock. One of our friends had that happen on a 2014 JK.

[@4WDTrek]

This is a really good tip. I need to look into that with my own rig. Thanks!

[@Grenyas]

As someone who's mostly been stuck at home for the past year, these adventure videos are extra special to see. Thanks guys

[@4WDTrek]

Love to live vicariously through these guys! Such an inspiration to get out and enjoy like they do.

[@XtremeChiliPepper]

2021 should open up ... hopefully. I agree, this past year sucked, but I have a 2016 Willy's now ... and I am going to use it this year!

[@4WDTrek]

@@XtremeChiliPepper I'm hoping too! I have a 2012 Rubicon that I have been building with and using for my channel. I want to get up to Canada and have heard some amazing things about some places up there.

[@DavidYoung-od2or]

After about 30 years of thinking I need a Jeep I bought one , I bought a 2020 wrangler unlimited rubicon recon . This machine is AWESOME. The wife and I are headed to the trails of southern Utah in May to enjoy what god created for all of us !! Beautiful places that you need to go see .

[@bigdogpr]

I never thought I’d ever want to do overland camping. But, your videos are inspiring me to take the plunge. And, BTW, as someone who runs a creative team of 25 movie makers, you do an exceptional job. Props!

[@TrailRecon]

Humbled by your comment, thank you!

[@MiguelMenendezlife]

@@TrailRecon quick question, I see that some parts seem to break often, but have not seen a rear main seal breaking, do you take precautions on this? I have a JLU and this is the second time in less than 3 months and the warranty won't cover it, I feel like this will be an issue every time I go offroad. I have opened a case with FCA, don't mind paying to get it fixed but it has definitely disappointed me. Thank you for the videos, best entertainment I have found on youtube in years.

[@ifitgamer9179]

I agree. I bought a 2021 4Runner a few months ago with the intentions of taking it overlanding in the near future. After seeing so many of these videos during quarantine, it will makes you appreciate how important the outdoors and nature is in our lives.

[@MrBobkido]

Brad I wanted to thank you and the guys for a wonderful video. Today I am at home ill with back spasms it's a chronic condition for me so it's really nice when I can sit back and watch your channel and at least experience getting out of the house even if I can't do it myself I want to thank you and Marco Jim and the guys for a great video. Made my day

[@simpleinstinct]

Overlanding in a plane..... THAT sounds like fun!

[@undergroundexplorersoverland]

Landing at the Chicken Strip takes some large attachments.

[@curlyfries2964]

Drug Cartel.

[@the_bencredible]

Check out Trent Palmer. He basically does just that.

[@gilvietor1918]

Can't overland in a boat, but camping from a boat going up rivers remote is crazy fun too. I've done the flying/camping thing (grew up in Alaska), super fun going into areas where there are no people and the fishing is just, unbelievably good.

[@bradshutler9356]

Had to smile when the old Coleman lantern was fired up. I still have 2 of these and a Coleman gas stove that still get used. 40 + years old and work just fine. Awesome adventure and video.

[@doncox1965]

Being from the Midwest I would have never thought there were so much cool history and beauty in the desert. One of my favourite videos of trail recon that I have seen

[@Steve_Farwalker]

Such a refreshing bunch of neat people gathered together enjoying life. Another excellent video!

[@stanleyfurash7929]

The castle with that organ was amazing. Also Randy sure can play. Lastly tell Marco time for a new jeep or major rebuild. He needs to hit Jim up for a deal on an axle package. That's what friends who own Dynatrac are for:)

[@patandjessicasjeepadventur3227]

I have to say it again This was an incredible adventure and thank you for sharing it with us. The views, locations and music made us feel like we were with you and the crew! Brad this series was possibly your best overlanding video. Thank you again

[@thetrailoutthere]

@12:07 when the conversation consists mainly of "mmmmm.....mmmmm" you know that chow was damn good!

[@no_handle_required]

I wonder if guys like you understand what videos like these mean to folks that want to do this but can't. Thank you for being there.

[@backcountryoverland103]

Of course I stumble on these vids......after the fact of my trip to DV. ( This December 1-15) But I'm actually glad. Had been there a few years ago in a fast bump and run, only seeing Furnace Creek and the Race Track. I knew I had to go back. Life was so busy up to departure I never really did any on-line research. I just went. [ I did research Dedeckara not sure if my big rig could do it ].Sometimes old school trips like that are the best as you learn along the way. A Cali. Atlas, a Nat Geo DV map and the park map.....all I had. Took my Ram 2500 CTD with light pop-up. No clue where I was going ! Low and behold, our overland community is the bomb! Stumbled into Tecopa Springs I knew nothing of. Met some Jeep peeps and adventure riders there. Ice was easy to break around a fire with some bevi's..... We broke out some maps and swapped info. I hit DV with some sense of places to hit, yet all new to me not knowing what to expect. I wanted to avoid just tracing the known adventure route. Man I was blown away. Taking two weeks to familiarize my self with the area and set up some 2 and 3 day camps to absorb it in, not just bump and run. I took the Harry Wade escape route in form the south, the canyon up to butte valley. Stayed a night in the stone cabin (amazing!), over mengel pass the Barker Ranch, Panamint Valley, and Ballarat. Retreated to Trona Pinnacles to let a storm blow through. Then back at it. Fueled at Panamint springs and into the Saline Valley via south pass, and to warm springs (I also did not know existed ! WOW!) Unlike your trip, they were up and running. Stayed there 3 days and got buzzed a bunch by fighter jets. I erred for caution and went out north pass not knowing if Dedeckera was wise in the big truck. 2 days at Eureka and checked that end of Dedeckara, Crankshaft to mesquite for a night. Then Beatty NV for fuel and back down Titus.....Easy yet wow! Last night at furnace creek to stage for heading home. Two weeks that blew me away and I barely scratched the surface. I'll be back with my JK ! Hopefully for another 2 or more week time down there. Recently retired, so time is no longer and issue. Your vids were great ! FYI: I had 11gallons extra diesel. Fuel never an issue as I planned accordingly, but a surprise in Stovepipe Wells. They DO NOT CARRY DIESEL despite being advertised a fuel stop. Happy New Year. See ya out there ! Questions regarding Marco's jeep and limp mode. 1) did it get resolved? 2) What was it? 3) how bad was limp mode? Could he continue the journey and get back home OK? [[ I've got a 17 with a 6 speed and almost no technology in it. Just plain Jane, but mechanically enhanced ~ lift~gears~tires~traction~and standard fair of bumpers winch etc. Thanks.

[@donnalubong8845]

Jeep. The ultimate driving machine. Jeep + Death Valley = heaven

[@masterbaiter7968]

Apparently not if 3 of 5 of them broke.

[@bettyteh7294]

I am really amazed at your travels. I am travelling vicariously with you guys and what video!! This is really the first time I have actually seen how the tyres move around the stones. You guys are really pro...and you have some magificient view. Enjoy your time with your friends in your trips and thank you for the video.

[@Shumi-kr3tc]

What a great trip, great friend, good food, trails, scenery, had it all! Thank you, for the time and effort to make the videos. Your videos are just truly incredible, hard to believe you do the filming and editing yourself!!

[@chriskalman4555]

As a Californian living in Texas (happy and sad for different reasons), these videos allow me to re-live some awesome memories of exploring trails off of 395. Also, this is THE most underrated off road/ overlanding channel's on You Tube. Amazing cinematography- camera angles, panning, music, narration and information... all of it is incredibly well done. You could string 2 hours worth of these videos together and pitch as a full length motion picture. IMAX anyone? Keep up the great work!

[@grandpremierexpress7941]

down sides for living in Texas?

[@chriskalman4555]

@@grandpremierexpress7941 Coming from SoCal and Living in Houston... the weather, the beaches and the mountains although West Texas has some nice physical geography...That's about it. Freedom in Texas is awesome though!

[@grandpremierexpress7941]

@@chriskalman4555 thinking to move in Texas from Michigan...from here looks like a good thing to move down south. In what way is a greater freedom in Texas?

[@chriskalman4555]

​@@grandpremierexpress7941 No state income tax, affordable housing, job market insanely good and growing amongst a list of other things. Just limited government dictating every aspect of my life. In general, quality of life has improved along with financial stability. It's not for everyone and really depends on what you deem important.

[@talalal-doulye2612]

What a great adventure making me wanna travel to the States and go overlanding BTW WE NEED A WALK AROUND THE NEW GLADIATOR WITH THE ALU CAP

[@jeffreypark]

I remember camping with a liquid fuel lantern (and stove) that had a little pump on it to pressurize the fuel. Always thought it was so cool.

[@danschramm1397]

AMAZING scenery Brad !!! Keep up the great content !!! Good luck to Marco with his Jeep !!!!!!

[@jerrytaylor2743]

Definitely on the list to do! Thanks for sharing

[@twilliams8041]

These are great to watch. Thank you for sharing. I note in many videos these Jeep vehicles do not seem to hold up too well, when used for even mild off-roading. Although the claim is they are specifically made for just such use. Broken damper mounts, a broken tie rod, steering fault indicator after contacting a rock, seem accepted and normal. Admittedly, I have never been off-roading, but did have a Jeep Wrangler on rental for a few days. It was fun, but clearly made for the trail. On the highway, constant steering corrections and sensitivity to crosswinds was a bit tiring... Keep sending your adventures!

[@moabwheeling]

Wow what an awesome looking adventure you all had , could only wish I was there with you . Thank you for sharing your adventure with us Brad and looking forward to your next one. Take care and be safe sir.

[@sandralutz-rodriguez2864]

I truly enjoy your videos Brad, but this 3 part series was extra special! that had to be an amazing adventure!!

[@craigkim5995]

Brad - I've been a subscriber for a while and I have to say your videos have done so much in getting me through the past year. Being able to escape 20-30 minutes at a time really gives me a lot to look forward to after being cooped up for so long. I'm a San Diego local and currently building my overland rig - you've given me so many ideas on local places to explore. Thanks so much for making these awesome videos!

[@TrailRecon]

Glad they are allowing you a little escape. Thank you!

[@kylegaidos7688]

I like that you cut the music for the technical section. Low engine revs and rocks crunching.. suspension flexing.

[@brantbeck8487]

Perfect video to go with my first cup of coffee this morning. Thanks Brad, looks like an excellent adventure

[@TrailRecon]

Enjoy!

[@carlosrodas8762]

@@TrailRecon I have a 18 Jeep Wrangler sport s and I want to install some 35 what do I need to upgrade on Jeep other than a lift ? (I don’t Offroad that much !

[@XtremeChiliPepper]

@@carlosrodas8762 You'd need a small lift kit - I keep watching the lift kit review video ... going for a min of 2" for my 2016 Willys. I just got 33" KO2's and that's max for stock, but I love the extra inch of height and smoothness from mudders.

[@craigroosa9321]

Another awesome video ! Can just smell the coffee in the morning and the food Marco cooks up at nite ! Did you nick the left rear of he trailer on that big rock near the beginning of the video ?

[@markreed9398]

Marco has the darnedest luck. It’s almost like he cooks for repairs. Lol I’d take his cooking as payment 😀

[@TYZR4ME]

Awesome video of your trip to Death Valley Brad!!! Glad you all had a wonderful time too!!!

[@guylongley1573]

Awesome video. I like Titus Canyon one of my favorite places in Death Valley. I've been to all the other spots in Panimint Valley. Great trip. 😁

[@Amithchandr]

Old common lantern is still a necessity back back in Indian villages . Jeep is stronger than what we see in these videos . I have experienced a 4 flip last month during a desert drive and the Jeep Wrangler so called frame did 100 % justice . Marco is super . I like all your videos , is something different than millions of other videos ……..

[@stevetabor4447]

Great video great trip I just love Death Valley an ca deserts so much rich amazing history an scenery it’s always hard to leave when going out, as always be safe 👍👍

[@mattc2971]

17:25 Josh’s Gladiator looks like an old video game smilie face in your mirror

[@thehoofersclub]

I always wondered where the donkeys go during the day. East of Star Wars canyon at night they can be out on the roadway pooping away. I was there twice in March and there were a few nights the wind was bonkers. Heading back next week, temps are warming up.

[@rickshaw813]

Definitely my most favorite series of videos!! Wow! This moved to the top of my bucket list! Love your videos! Thank you!

[@javiermarante5344]

I will be getting a Ford raptor in a few months and I would like to join you guys in some adventures, I am from Florida but I can drive up to Cali

[@stevend9124]

That ghost town was cool and those trails looked epic can't for warmer weather and get out 👍👍👍

[@CJ-rk5eg]

Great adventure! This is the only time of year to visit Death Valley and the desert. NOT the 125 degree summer!

[@problu9586]

Quite a contrast to how I drive Death Valley area unpaved roads. Feel like I'm breaking land speed records if I reach 25 MPH, LOL. I usually creep along at about 15 MPH. Driving to Titus Canyon was fine without airing down at my slow poke speeds, hehe.

[@paulclinton6567]

Brad, I have been enjoying your content for years! But this was the first video that I was genuinely sad when it ended! Great job and I hope Marcos Jeep is back online now.

[@TheNitroGeneral]

What a honor it must be and freedom to be able to drive through such a beautiful place with your Jeep and good friends. Great job making this video and sharing it with us fellow jeepers😃 sorry for my bad English 😩 Stay safe and enjoy life🤠

[@artisticdriver4218]

I’m living vicariously through you right now

[@cjtravis1]

My Gladiator is close to being Overland ready. I would love to explore the West Coast.

[@screaminpman]

The Nevada / California border is awesome. Definitely worth a week if you like ghost towns, wild horses, and wide open spaces.

[@4WDTrek]

The PNW also has a lot of amazing stuff to see. Most of the stuff up here is mountainous and trees so some of ORV parks may be a tad tight but there are a lot of amazing places to go. I did the WABDR last year and that was a blast following the Cascades through Washington.

[@4WDTrek]

@@screaminpman This is a goal to hit! Trying to figure out an overland adventure this year. This may be the place to go

[@alsmith1025]

I gotta get Jim as a friend. He knows all the spots. Great video.

[@ChillWargamingBrian]

That beard is coming in pretty good by the end. You got a ways to go to catch Marco though!

[@4WDTrek]

Marco always has the best beard!

[@hiller.photog]

Brad, I’ve said it many times and I’ll say it again. Your videos are such a great glimpse into the vast world of overlanding. If I get half of the fun and experiences you show, I will be a happy camper indeed. Haven’t invested in a Jeep yet, but the day is getting closer. Safety to you and yours as always, and I can’t wait to see your next adventure. -Hiller

[@gregcollier472]

I live in Las Vegas and have gone to Death Valley via Pahrump. The vastness of Death Valley National Park is intimidating. Too much to see and too many places to go. Great place, and you filmed it beautifully.

[@samwatts1911]

Hey guy's, great video, man I do miss the west coast!!! Keep the videos coming!!! Indialantic Beach, Fl. 🐊😎🍻🤙👣

[@Wklambert]

Love my Coleman lantern. In an age w solar and battery operated everything, they are few and far between.

[@paulfindude8743]

Amazing videos my friend. You and The Story Till Now are the best. Thank you for what you do.

[@scottsnyder8691]

Yep, these 2 guys got me hooked as well!

[@Constax]

07:05 It was amusing to know that Jeeps shed some bolts along the way .. this is the product Americans chose over the fj cruiser!

[@screaminpman]

I love Goldpoint, NV! West Central Nevada is gorgeous. It’s like you’re on the set of HBO’s Westworld.

[@Crimeanland]

Молодцы мужики! С огромным удовольствием смотрю ваши покатушки и посиделки,супер!!!!!!!!

[@alexiciuschyrmang6499]

Your videos are amazing Brad i love watching it keep up the good work👍🏻

[@510_jk5]

Awesome video, Brad!! Looks like an epic trip! ✊🏽

[@swissyodelbear]

nice rigs, neat clip......thanks for sharing...

[@johnbarrios1598]

Sure love those trails. Fantastic

[@bersonlee]

To those who want to tour the hard luck castle, as of Oct 2021 it is closed to visitors. The castle has been sold and it will become private residence or an airbnb in the furture and doesn't welcome visitors. We stopped by to check out the castle but only to find it was closed.

[@ChristisLord70]

That was a great historic adventure. Keep them coming.

[@w9jim]

You drove right so much much good stuff! You need to get out and explore!

[@herbertwagner6571]

Thanks Brad, this trip and impression I received from Death Valley ist awesome. Great trip, great friends and going with beauty 7 slots.

[@D1TemplarKnight]

These are the videos I enjoy most, out exploring places that are amazing! On another note Brad, I'm looking forward to seeing an opportunity to send in video of viewers rigs. As an old 11B infantryman with bad knees, I needed a project to keep me busy during rehab. I bought a silver JK due to past Trail Recon videos and built it up, inside and out, over the last year. A few more things and I'll be done. I'm asked all the time if I'd be interested in selling it. Not yet...

[@peterrichardson4192]

Just discovered this channel and boy am i enjoying it. Love those Jeeps.

[@autom8ed]

Enjoyed the video! Also appreciate your honesty! haha

[@sameeralazawee7524]

Really very nice , Thanks .

[@stuartwilson5634]

Brad, you awesome, love your energy and love of overlanding, also love the X1N, great colour match.

[@TrailRecon]

Thank you!

[@JakeTaylor1646]

It so beautiful the technical parts was interesting watching you folks tackle thanks again for a great video Brad!

[@lovestoryover8957]

Very Kool my friend Injoy your road trip I'll have to plan a trip that way luv those old ghost towns Zargon

[@willperry07]

Hey Brad, I saw you in Furnace Creek last week, I yelled at ya while you guys were waiting to head out Friday morning. It was my first trip to DV with my family towing our Turtleback I got last year. Would love to link up with you guys someday on a run!

[@davidcolinstillman5585]

👋 BRAD , LOVE THE HISTORY & THE FOOTAGE ! BREATHTAKING VIEWS BEAUTY SCENERY COLORS VIDEO WEATHER LANDSCAPE ! DEPENDING ON HOW HARD MARCO'S FRONTEND BUMPED THE ROCK MAYBE BENT SOMETHING JUST ENOUGH TO THROW A CODE ? AWESOME JOURNEY THANK YOU FOR ALLOWING ME TO TAG ALONG WITH YOU'LL ! BE SAFE ! HAVE FUN ! GOD BLESS YOU ALL 🙏 ALWAYS ON YOUR JOURNEYS ! ENJOYED 🍨

[@XtremeChiliPepper]

Turn off CAPS lock lol! Don't be yelling at Brad like that!

[@ammo4uragingjudge559]

Imagine the early times traveling these trails on foot or horseback. Food problems weather, outlaws. Great vid.

[@77AbleArcher]

So cool to see a fellow San Diegan making these videos. You're often out where I work - VOTM, Table Mountain, etc... Cool too see you guys going through every now and then. I always wanted to jump in with the Rubicon I was assigned, but I was too busy responding to things. Hope to see you out when I'm able to visit with you all. Happy trails!

[@2bond007]

I haven't gotten used to that diesel sound from a wrangler yet. 😄

[@williamwilde9867]

I want to get to Moab so bad, border issue sucks and the 30 days of quarantine there and back and they threw in 2000.00 for hotel mandatory for 3 days🥲 at least I can watch you have fun👍

[@zaneturner8423]

What a great adventure Brad and crew. When I want to tackle this adventure I will just revert to these 4 videos.

[@wsantalitz7785]

My car is a stinky prius that couldn't even survive a back alley road but I'm here for the awsome videography as always.

[@TheThriftShopSampler]

One of these days I hope to see a Trail Recon/Coyote Works crossover. You guys would love Oregon.

[@evilcam]

That would be really cool. I think the fellas would get along well too, and no doubt Brad would really dig Casey's guided tours of Oregon, and encyclopedic knowledge of the high desert, mountains and all points in between. It would be even cooler if Trail Recon and Marco and their normal crew joined Casey and Jason from Primal Outdoors, Don from softraodingthewest and Ed Shin and their usual crew for a long adventure into Oregon and perhaps Washington, Idaho or Montana. They could probably all learn a lot from one another, and since they're all uber overlanding nerds, I'm sure it would be a great trip for all involved.

[@TrailRecon]

We've got something on the calendar for later this year!

[@TheThriftShopSampler]

@@TrailRecon sweet!

[@MaryWood86]

Thanks guys. Awesome trip

[@NasTimeAdventures]

This is some awesome country. Very grateful to be able to join you on your adventures. One day I hope to join you in person. Cheers.

[@DanBCooper]

Awesome video. I love that area of the high desert 🏜

[@drewbutts7461]

Considering how much money is invested in these Jeep’s why do you think you don’t see more of the Ursa Minor camper tops out in the wild? To me it sounds like the most convenient setup and I’m thinking about pulling the trigger on a Rubicon with an Ursa Minor top.

[@ThatOneDudeNick]

Some of those shots between 4:33 and 6:00 looks like a Jeep commercial. Beautifully filmed.

[@mitchellanderson7369]

Get excited everytime a new exploration video comes out!

[@waijhou9529]

Another great video of an epic adventure. I wish I was there!

[@Jon5150XL]

I enjoy watching your videos and thanks for sharing buddy

[@escalade78]

So want to start living the Overland Adventure lifestyle full time, but not financially able to do that. If that ever comes to fruition, I want to start out on the Enchanted Rockies Trail & go from there. Trying to design a vehicle/camper system capable of hauling an adventure off road capable motorcycle for recon & side trips. Safe Travels, all! 😎👍🇺🇸

[@mbusch76]

This was a great series. Truly enjoyed it!

[@TrailRecon]

Glad to hear it!

[@changingdirection443]

Great videos Brad now this is trail recon I didn't feel like you where trying to sell me camping gear. It was about the adventure.

[@craigkosters9852]

Think I saw Josh Homme bring Iggy Pop to the Castle one day a while back. Josh grew up out there.

[@JustinDowDIYcentralhighway]

Looks like a fun adventure 🍻😎

[@sid4744]

The castle is definitely the highlight of the trip..👌👌😯😯

[@TrailRecon]

Yes it was!

[@kebob2150]

Your videos only get better with time. I look forward to the next adventure. Great job.

[@danielwietchy1037]

Strange Times…. that lighting a Coleman Lantern would now be considered “Bush-Craft”. Love Death Valley area and history. Been there many, many times.

[@ejsvegas5724]

Yeah I wish my dad didn't sell his in a garage sale years ago. I know I could still work one but I'm sure there are many basic camping gear skills that no one uses anymore. Basic cooking over a camp fire would probably be one.

[@1833201078]

Awesome video and looks like you guys have a great time and making great memories!! I used to live in Virginia City and Carson city in my teens and really wish I was back!! I could utilize my jeep daily!! I currently reside on the east coast now in upstate SC.

[@dzelpwr]

Enjoyable to watch you guys and great scenery and stories as ever. With the more remote locations/long distances between fuel stations out there, it does have me wondering how the diesel Wrangler is holding up for range vs. the gas engines. I know it's got a smaller tank than the gas versions to make room for the diesel exhaust fluid, but is obviously more efficient as well. Curious to hear what kind of MPGs it got on a trip like this compared to someone like Marco who's got one of the gas versions (I'm not sure which he's got--the turbo 4 or the Pentastar V6) and what that equates to as far as range between fuel ups vs. what the gas engines do with their less efficient engines but larger fuel tank.

[@naseerahmadnisar739]

i will definitely go to this trail its wonderful wow thanks for the video

[@pixbyeli]

what an amazing castle