Death Valley National Park
Death Valley Is The Hottest,Driest, And Lowest Place In The United States.
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Death Valley Is The Hottest,Driest, And Lowest Place In The United States.
Death Valley National Park is also known as the Grand Canyon of the Desert, this remarkable and legendary landscape is alive with unmatched beauty, featuring miles and miles of massive sand dunes, technicolour rocks and canyons, rare and endemic wildlife, one-of-a-kind evaporative elements, and jaw-dropping peaks rising 11,000 feet above the surrounding valley. A visit to Death Valley National Park will provide you with a lifetime of surprises and unexpected adventures.
The lowest, hottest, and driest point in North America is home to otherworldly landscapes, incredible geologic and human history, and animals found nowhere else on the planet. A lifetime of exploration awaits you at the lowest, hottest, and driest point in North America.
A wreath of relics from Death Valley National Park’s long history will greet visitors, providing a glimpse into the harsh life of the area’s early settlers and native inhabitants. Relics include metal ore mines, charcoal kilns, ghost towns, petroglyphs, and ancient Shoshone foot trails, all of which can be found in the park. But first and foremost, where exactly is Death Valley? In the northern Mojave Desert, near the border of the Great Basin Desert, lies a fascinating desert valley on the eastern border of south-central California, which is home to a variety of wildlife. Death Valley National Park encompasses 5,270 square miles (3.4 million acres) and extends into Nevada, making it the largest national park in the lower 48 United States.
For thousands of years, the Timbisha Shoshone Tribe lived in and around modern-day Death Valley and Ash Springs, as well as the Inyo Mountains and other locations in Mono County in California and Nye, Mineral, and Esmeralda Counties in Nevada, and in and around modern-day Death Valley and Ash Springs, as well as other locations in Mono County. In 1849, a group of early pioneers looking for a convenient shortcut on their way to the California goldfields took what turned out to be a fictitious southern route through this incomparably hot and dry region, which they later discovered to be a fictitious route. After months of adversity, the two political parties decided to part ways. After months of waiting for two young men to walk 300 miles and return with horses, one made it to civilization (barely), while the other did so only after months of waiting for the other. One member is said to have looked back on the place one last time and exclaimed, “Goodbye, Death Valley,” despite the fact that only one man died during their wait. As a result, it would be known for all time.
A few boomtowns were able to spring up in this dangerously hot valley, but they were never able to survive for long due to the extreme environmental conditions present. The only long-term mining prospect was borax, which was famously transported out of Death Valley by twenty-mule teams, thereby putting Death Valley on the map in the eyes of the public for the first time.
A wave of tourism swept through the Death Valley area in the 1920s when luxury resorts opened in and around Stovepipe Wells and Furnace Creek, bringing a slew of Hollywood celebrities to the area, as well as to what would later become Nevada’s Spring Mountain Ranch State Park. Death Valley was designated as a National Monument in 1933 and as a National Park in 1994, with the latter designation taking effect in
Death Valley National Park encompasses more than 3.4 million acres, so there is plenty to see and do! Choosing which attractions to visit in a park this large can be a difficult decision. Click on the locations in the list below to get more information about them and to help you decide what to see based on the amount of time you have.
Remember that while all of these locations are reachable by car, some roads have length restrictions and/or require a high-clearance vehicle to be driven through them.
Artists Palette at Death Valley
Zabriskie Point at Death Valley
Badwater Basin at Death Valley
Dantes View at Death Valley
Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes at Death Valley
Harmony Borax Works at Death Valley
Ubehebe Crater at Death Valley
Father Crowley Vista Point- Rainbow Canyon at Death Valley
Wildrose Charcoal Kilns at Death Valley
Night Exploration
Death Valley National Park, which is located far away from cities and has been meticulously managed to preserve the night sky, is an excellent place to observe the night sky. In fact, Death Valley’s nights are so dark that the park has been designated as a Gold Tier Dark Sky Preserve by the International Dark-Sky Association; many celestial objects that can be seen from Death Valley are not visible anywhere else on the planet! While most places in the park away from lodging/campgrounds and major roads will provide good night-sky viewing opportunities, the top ranger recommendations for star gazing locations are Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Harmony Borax Works, Badwater Basin, and Ubehebe Crater. Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Harmony Borax Works, Badwater Basin, and Ubehebe Crater are the top ranger recommendations for star gazing locations.
Allow enough time (approximately 30 minutes) for your eyes to become fully adjusted.
In order to protect your night vision, use a flashlight with a red light filter installed.
Visit when the moon is new (time when the moon is not visible)
Binoculars should be brought.
Choose a location where there are no nearby obstructions, such as mountains.
The night sky is filled with incredible natural wonders, but there are also some incredible man-made structures visible in the night sky. To find out when the International Space Station will be visible from Death Valley National Park, check out this NASA tool developed for that purpose.
Dark nights provide plenty of opportunities to photograph the night sky. There is no “best” location for astrophotography, but locations such as Zabriskie Point, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, and Harmony Borax Works are frequently used by photographers to capture their nighttime images. Please keep in mind that while you are permitted to park along major highways while photographing, camping along paved roads is not permitted.
When the sun is close to the horizon, one of the most beautiful times to see the desert is when the sky is clear. The soft colours of sunrise and sunset reveal the many different moods that Death Valley can have at any given time of day. In the early morning and late evening hours of the day, some of the most dramatic photographs of Death Valley have been captured.
For information on today’s sunrise and sunset times, go to the Death Valley National Weather Service website. However, while official sunrise and sunset times indicate when the sun will pass behind the curve of the earth, the actual time will vary depending on your location due to features such as mountains and other natural obstacles.
However, in such a desolate location, there is little need for trails that have been built…………………………………… The majority of the hiking trails in the park are cross-country, up canyons, or along ridges.
During the months of November through March, Death Valley is at its most beautiful. In the lower elevations of the park, summer temperatures can be dangerously high. Heat can be unbearable for most people at any time of year, even in the spring and autumn. Low-elevation hikes should be reserved for the cooler winter days. High peaks provide a welcome respite from the heat in the summer, but they are typically covered with snow in the winter and early spring months. It is recommended that you climb them during the winter season with appropriate winter clothing, an ice axe and crampons to ensure a safe and successful climb.
It is necessary to drink more water in Death Valley than in other parts of the country, even during the cooler winter months, due to the aridity of the climate. Always keep a sufficient supply of water on hand (at least 2 litres for a short winter dayhike, 1 gallon or more for longer warm season hikes and overnighters). Springs are extremely rare and should not be relied upon for long periods of time. Before using water from these sources, it is necessary to boil or treat it.
It takes 0.4 miles to get to Borax Works (0.6km)
Walking distance: 0.5 miles on the Salt Creek Interpretive Trail (0.8km)
1-mile distance between the two locations: Badwater Salt Flat (1.6km)
1 mile Natural Bridge (1.6km)
Dunes of Mesquite: 2 miles away (3.2km)
A 1.5-mile loop around the Ubehebe Crater (2.4km)
Two-mile hike to Darwin Falls (3.2km)
A 2.7-mile round trip through the Badlands (4.3km)
3-mile hike up Golden Canyon (4.8km)
Distance travelled: 3.6 miles through Desolation Canyon (5.8km)
Four-mile hike up Mosaic Canyon (6.4km)
A 4.2-mile hike through Willow Canyon (6.8km)
A 4.3-mile loop through Gower Gulch (6.9km)
Approximately 5 miles away is Sidewinder Canyon (8.4km)
6.8 miles to Fall Canyon (9.6km)
8.2 miles to Dante’s Ridge (13km)
A 7-mile hike to the Panamint Dunes (11.3km)
A total of 7 miles is covered by Little Bridge Canyon (11.2km)
Eight-mile hike to Corkscrew Peak (12.9km)
8.4 miles to Wildrose Peak (13.5km)
14 miles above sea level is the highest point on the telescope (22.5km)
0.4 miles in length (0.6km) The loop is paved and ADA accessible.
The journey will take approximately 30 minutes round trip time.
Ease of Completion
Elevation 100 ft of gain (0.8km)
Directions: CA-190 West, one mile (1.6 kilometres) west of Furnace Creek
Large RV and bus parking spaces are available in a paved area.
Closest Restrooms: There are none available. Approximately one mile (1.6 kilometres) east is the Furnace Creek Visitor Center.
Tour Route: The paved loop transports you back in time as you learn about Death Valley borax and the 20-Mule teams. A series of interpretive panels along the way provide information about the borax processing, the history of the Mule Skinner, and life in Harmony, among other things.
Tour Route: The paved loop transports you back in time as you learn about Death Valley borax and the 20-Mule teams. A series of interpretive panels along the way provide information about the borax processing, the history of the Mule Skinner, and life in Harmony, among other things.
Distance travelled: 0.5 mi (0.8km) Looping wooden boardwalk that is ADA accessible
Travel time: 30 minutes one-way.
Difficulty level: simple
Elevation Gain: a stalemate
Salt Creek Road is located 13 miles (20 kilometres) west of Furnace Creek on California Highway 190. The unpaved Salt Creek Road is usually passable by sedans, despite its poor condition.
RVs and buses can park in the open gravel parking area, which is large enough to accommodate them.
The closest restrooms are located in the parking lot, in the vault toilets.
Despite the fact that the boardwalk is open year-round, water only flows down to the boardwalk from November through May. Directions: In the spring (February – April), when the Salt Creek Pupfish are in spawning season, it is the best time to visit the area. Puppyfish behaviour, adaptations, and relationships with other pupfish in the Mojave Desert are explained in detail by interpretive signs placed along the trail’s route.
1 mile in length (3.2km) round-trip journey out and back
Travel time: 45 minutes one-way.
Difficulty level: simple
Elevation 86 ft in height gain (26m)
Natural Bridge Road is located 13.5 miles (22 kilometres) south of CA-190 on Badwater Road and is usually passable by sedans. It is not paved.
Parking: There is a large open parking area that can accommodate buses and RVs.
Located in the parking lot is a vault toilet, which is the closest restroom.
The road leading from the information sign up the canyon to the bridge formation is straightforward, but it is extremely rocky. Beyond the bridge, the canyon continues for a short distance before abruptly coming to an end at a dry waterfall.
Distance: 1 mile (1.6 kilometres) round trip to the edge of the salt flat. It’s about 5 miles (8 kilometres) each way to get to the other side.
Time: The average hiking speed is 2 miles per hour (3.2 kilometres per hour); choose your own adventure!
Depending on the length, the difficulty ranges from easy to difficult. It’s a perfectly flat surface. It is not recommended to attempt when it is hot!
Gain in Elevation: 0 ft.
Badwater Road is located approximately 30 minutes (17 miles/27 kilometres) south of Furnace Creek.
Parking is available in a paved lot with plenty of room for RVs and buses.
Located in the parking lot is a vault toilet, which is the closest restroom.
Route: The lowest point in North America is a beautiful salt flat that covers more than 200 square miles (322 kilometres) of the valley’s valley floor. The boardwalk is reached via an ADA accessible ramp
2 miles is the distance covered (3.2km) round-trip transportation to and from
Round-trip travel time is 1.5 hours.
Difficulty ranges from easy to moderate.
Elevation 185 ft in height gain (65m)
Location: Stovepipe Wells Village is located 30 minutes (24 miles/39 kilometres) west of Furnace Creek and is accessible by car or on foot.
Parking is available in a paved lot with pull-through spaces for buses and large recreational vehicles.
The nearest restroom is located in the parking lot, in the vault toilets.
The route to the top of the high dune is one mile (1.6 kilometres) each way. There is no formal trail. These are the most well-known and easily accessible of Death Valley’s seven sets of sand dune systems.
1.5 miles in length (2.4km) loop
Travel time: 1 hour one-way
Moderate in terms of difficulty. Edges that are exposed! Those who are afraid of heights should avoid this attraction.
Elevation The gain is 500 feet (152m)
Scotty’s Castle is located approximately 8 miles (13 kilometres) west of the site.
Parking is available in a paved lot that overlooks the crater and is large enough to accommodate buses and large RVs.
Closest Restroom: There are no restrooms nearby. The nearest restrooms are located 5 miles (8 kilometres) east of the crater at the Grapevine Ranger Station, which is unmanned.
Route: The hike is typically done in a counter-clockwise direction, with hikers starting with the most difficult section at the beginning. Little Hebe Crater, which is within 0.5 miles (0.8 kilometres) of the trailhead, is a popular destination for those looking for a shorter hike.
Round trip distance is 2 miles (3.2 kilometres) out and back.
Time required: 1.5 – 2 hours total, round trip
Moderate level of difficulty
Elevation 450 ft of elevation gain (137m)
The unpaved Darwin Falls Road is located on CA-190, 1.2 miles (2 kilometres) west of Panamint Springs, and is accessible only by car. Darwin Falls Road from CA-190 to the trailhead (the first 2.5 miles/4 kilometres) is typically passable in a sedan; however, a high clearance vehicle is much more comfortable on the terrain. Traveling from the town of Darwin to the trailhead is only recommended for vehicles with high clearance and 4×4 capabilities. Gradients that are too steep and unmarked intersections. It is not recommended that you travel to Darwin from the falls.
Parking is available in a small gravel lot. Large RVs are not recommended for this route.
Restrooms in the vicinity: There are no restrooms. The closest facilities are located at the privately owned Panamint Springs Resort, which is about 15 minutes away.
The route is not clearly marked. To get there, walk past the gate and into the wash, which will take you further up the canyon. The unmarked route is relatively flat but rocky as it transitions from a desert wash to a canyon with a high wall on either side. Hikers must exercise caution as they make their way deeper into the oasis, due to the dense vegetation, stream crossings, and large slick rocks that can be found in the canyon. Please take precautions to safeguard this precious resource. There will be no swimming!
Routes ranging in length from 3 to 8 miles (5 to 13 kilometres).
Travel time ranges from 1.5 to 4.5 hours round trip, depending on the route taken.
Difficulty levels range from moderate to difficult.
Gain in elevation: 535 feet to 834 feet (163m to 254m).
There are two locations:
Badwater Road leads to the trailhead for Golden Canyon, which is located 2 miles south of CA-190.
Zabriskie Point is located 3.5 miles east of Badwater Road on California Highway 190.
Parking is available in paved lots at both locations. RVs and buses can park in large parking lots.
Restrooms are located in both parking lots and are the closest.
Trailhead: A maze of canyons and badlands provides a plethora of hiking possibilities. For more information, including route details, a map, and GPS data, visit the Golden Canyon page.
Round trip distance is 3.6 miles (5.8 kilometres) out and back.
Time required: 2.5 hours total.
Moderate to difficult in terms of difficulty
Elevation Increase in height: 600 ft (183m)
Getting There: The short unpaved Desolation Canyon Road is located 3.7 miles (6km) south of CA-190 on Badwater Road, just south of the state highway. Sedans are usually able to pass through.
Parking: There is an open gravel parking lot large enough to accommodate buses and RVs.
Closest Restroom: There are no restroom facilities on site. The Golden Canyon parking lot, located 1.7 miles (2.7 kilometres) north of the trailhead, has a vault toilet in the parking lot.
Route: This is an unmarked route that requires rock scrambling.
Distance travelled: 4 miles (6.4 kilometres) out and back round trip.
Time required: 2.5 – 3 hours total, round trip
Moderate to difficult in terms of difficulty
Elevation Amount gained: 1,200 ft (366m)
The unpaved Mosaic Canyon Road is located in Stovepipe Wells Village, directly across from the Stovepipe Wells Campground, and is 2.3 miles (3.7 kilometres) long. In most cases, a sedan can navigate the road safely.
Parking is available in a large gravel lot. Buses and large recreational vehicles are not recommended.
The nearest restroom is located in Stovepipe Wells Village, near the general store and restaurant.
A popular route for hikers is to hike to the first set of beautiful canyon narrows, which are less than 0.5 miles (0.8km) into the canyon and offer spectacular views.
Round-trip distance: 4.2 miles (6.8 kilometres) out and back.
Time required: 2.5 hours total (round trip).
Moderate to difficult in terms of difficulty
Elevation Height gained: 776 ft (237m)
Location: An unmarked gravel access road is located on Badwater Road between mile markers 31 and 32, 31.5 miles south of California Highway 190. The access road is less than 0.5 miles (0.8km) in length and is typically passable by a sedan with a low clearance. The same goes for Sidewinder Canyon.
Parking is available in an open gravel area large enough to accommodate buses and RVs.
Closest Restroom: There are no restrooms in the immediate vicinity. Follow the third of the Leave No Trace principles (LNT).
Route: Although this route is not physically demanding, discovering the canyon and seasonal waterfall is a rewarding experience that only cross-country navigators are privy to. There is no road signage and no hiking route signage. Avoid the small foothills and canyons to the east of the parking area as you walk from there. Instead, travel north/northeast, passing through the foothills and up into the mountains, where you will find a deep canyon to explore. The majority of this route is across a rocky alluvial fan, which is exposed to the sun for the most part. Prior to arriving at the waterfall, the final 0.25 miles (0.4km) of the narrow canyon are traversed over polished bedrock.
Distance travelled: 5 miles (8.4 kilometres) out and back round trip.
Time required: 6 hours total (round trip).
Very Difficult is the appropriate difficulty level.
Elevation Height gained: 1,580 ft (482m)
Location: An unmarked gravel access road is located on Badwater Road between mile markers 31 and 32, 31.5 miles south of California Highway 190. The access road is less than 0.5 miles (0.8km) in length and is typically passable by a sedan with a low clearance.
Parking is available in an open gravel area large enough to accommodate buses and RVs. The location is the same as Willow Canyon.
Closest Restroom: There are no restrooms in the immediate vicinity. Follow the third of the Leave No Trace principles (LNT).
Information on the route can be found on the Sidewinder Canyon page.
Distance: 6 miles (9.7 kilometres) round trip (out and back).
Time required: 3.5 hours total (round trip).
Moderate to difficult in terms of difficulty
Elevation Gain is 2,460 feet (752m)
The unpaved two-way section of Titus Canyon Road is located 11.9 miles north of CA-190 on Scotty’s Castle Road, which is 2.7 miles (4.3km) long and 2.7 miles (4.3km) wide. In most cases, sedans will be able to navigate the road.
RVs and buses should avoid parking in the open gravel lot because of the high traffic volume.
Located in the parking lot is the vault toilet, which is the closest rest room.
Detailed route information, including a map and GPS data, can be found on the Fall Canyon page.
Distance: 8 miles (12.8 kilometres) round trip (out and back).
Time required: 4-5 hours total, round trip
Moderately difficult in terms of difficulty
Gain in elevation: 1,028 feet (313m)
It is located approximately 4.5 miles east of Panamint Springs, on the north side of California Highway 190, on an unmarked cross country route that branches off the unpaved Lake Hill road. To get to the trailhead, you’ll need a vehicle with plenty of clearance.
Parking is available in a small gravel lot.
Restrooms are available at Panamint Springs Resort and Emigrant Canyon Rest Station, which are both within walking distance. There are no restrooms along the trail, so adhere to the third principle of Leave No Trace (LNT).
Data from the GPS system: 36° 27.673’N, -117° 27.331’W are the coordinates for this location (the highest dune)
Taking a direct route toward the dunes to the north from the prominent bend on Lake Hill Road, approximately 5.5 miles (8.9km) from CA-190, is the recommended route. There are no signs along the route, and it is uneven, sandy, and partially rocky. The elevation gain is gradual until you reach the sand dunes, which are approximately 3 miles in from the starting point. There is a sandy and strenuous climb to the tops of four different dunes from there.
Round-trip distance: 7 miles (11.2 kilometres) out and back.
Time required: 5 hours total.
It’s a difficult situation.
Elevation 1 900 ft in elevation gain (590m)
The location is CA-190 at milemarker 89 in the eastbound direction.
Parking: There is no designated parking area or signage. At milemarker 89, pull over onto the shoulder of the eastbound lane of California 190. There is enough parking space for several vehicles; however, large recreational vehicles are not recommended. Use extreme caution when travelling on this high-speed highway.
The closest restroom is one mile (1.6 kilometres) east, in the Mesquite Dunes parking lot, which has vault toilets.
GPS Data: GPS data for the unmarked route is provided solely as a supplemental resource. When exploring the trailless wilderness, it’s a good idea to bring a map and compass.
Detailed route information, a map, and GPS coordinates can be found on the Little Bridge Canyon page.
Round-trip distance: 8.4 miles (13.5 kilometres) out and back.
Time required: 6 hours total.
It’s a difficult situation.
Elevation Gain: approximately 2,200 ft (671m)
Getting There: From CA-190 After passing through the Wildrose Campground, continue on Emigrant Canyon Road to the Charcoal Kilns parking area. The final two miles are on a well-maintained gravel surface, which is usually passable in a sedan or SUV. Vehicles are limited to 25 feet in length.
Vehicles must be parked within 25 feet of each other. There is a large open gravel area.
The nearest restroom is a vault toilet in the parking lot. There are no restrooms along the trail, so adhere to the third principle of Leave No Trace (LNT).
Route: This is a great hike for when the valley begins to become too hot to bear. Winter storms may bring snow to the region. For route information, a map, and GPS data, please see the Wildrose Peak page on this website.
Round-trip distance: 14 miles (22.5 kilometres) out and back.
Time required: 7 hours total (round trip).
It’s a difficult situation.
Elevation 3,000 ft of elevation gain (914m)
Getting There: From CA-190 After passing through the Wildrose Campground, continue on Emigrant Canyon Road to the Charcoal Kilns parking area. After that, the final 5 miles are on a well-maintained gravel surface that is passable in a sedan. Vehicles are limited to 25 feet in length.
Vehicles must be parked within 25 feet of each other. There is a large open gravel area.
The nearest restroom is a vault toilet in the parking lot. There are no restrooms along the trail, so adhere to the third principle of Leave No Trace (LNT).
GPS Data: GPS data for the unmarked route is provided solely as a supplemental resource. When exploring the trailless wilderness, it’s a good idea to bring a map and compass.
Route: Go to the Telescope Peak page for detailed descriptions, a map, and GPS files for your hike up Telescope Peak.
Traveling through Death Valley National Park can be difficult, but there are numerous opportunities to enjoy the park’s three million acres of designated Wilderness, which offers opportunities to experience solitude, sweeping views, dark night skies, and incredible geology. Even though there are few established trails in the park, hikers can navigate their way around by following canyon bottoms, open desert washe s, alluvial fans, and abandoned dirt roads.
A free backcountry permit can be obtained online or in person at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center or the Stovepipe Wells Ranger Station. Backpackers are asked to register for the permit in advance.
In order to minimise impacts on the fragile desert environment, it is recommended that Leave No Trace guidelines be followed.
The maximum number of people in an overnight group is 12 and the maximum number of vehicles is four. Larger groups will need to separate and camp at least a half mile apart from one another.
In the backcountry, it is not permitted to have a campfire. Instead, make use of a campfire.
Pets are not permitted on the trails or in the wilderness environment. On the other hand, pets are permitted on the Furnace Creek bike path as well as numerous miles of backcountry dirt roads.
It is possible for springs to be dry or contaminated with contaminants. These fragile and sensitive habitats are also essential for the survival of wildlife. Prepare to bring your own water or to have it stored in advance. The use of one gallon or more of water per person per day during the hot spring, summer, and fall months is recommended during these months.
Strenuous is the level of difficulty.
Hiking style: no trail; walk gravel wash and cross-country, with some rock scrambling thrown in for good measure.
The distance between Scotty’s Castle Road and the upper dry fall is 10 miles.
Gain in elevation: 4000 feet.
No, there is no water.
Scotty’s Castle Road, 3.9 miles south of the Grapevine Ranger Station, serves as the starting point.
Vehicles are required: any and all vehicles.
Tin Mountain and Whitetop Mountain are depicted on maps. Topos are 7.5 minutes long.
Comments: Hike down to Death Valley Wash from the Scotty’s Castle Road, then follow the main drainage up the alluvial fan to the canyon’s entrance. Several small dry falls are easily passed, but at the upper end of the gorge, an 80-foot dry fall necessitates scrambling up a talus slope on the north side in order to continue on. There is no camping allowed within 2 miles of the road.
Strenuous is the level of difficulty.
Hiking style: walk along a dirt road; there is no trail; gravel wash and cross-country; some brushy terrain.
Distance travelled: 26 miles (42km). The hike may take longer because of the road walk. See the map for more information.
Gain in elevation: 3882 feet (1183m)
Water can be found in seasonal springs in upper Cottonwood Canyon and Deadhorse Canyon, among other places.
Start: Cottonwood Canyon Road, approximately 8 to 10 miles north of Stovepipe Wells.
Vehicle requirements: high clearance to canyon mouth, and 4×4 beyond that point.
Comments: To complete the loop, hike up Cottonwood Canyon Road until it comes to an end, then hike back down the Cottonwood drainage. Immediately below the spring, trees line a small stream, but the brush can be dense. To return to your vehicle, hike northeast through the valley above the spring and across the bridge into Deadhorse Canyon. Follow Deadhorse Canyon down into Marble Canyon to reach your vehicle. Flash floods are a potential hazard. Take a map and a compass with you.
GPS Files (for the Entire Trip): GPX (98 KB download). The KML format is a graphical representation of a map (78 KB download).
The following roads and Trek KML tracks are available for download:Cottonwood Marble Road (6 KB download), Cottonwood Canyon Road (16 KB download), Marble Canyon Road (6 KB download) (2 KB download). Trekking Across the Country (39 KB download).
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Moderately difficult in terms of difficulty
Hiking style: informal path for the first mile, then gravel wash and rock scrambling for the next mile.
Traveling distances: 3 miles to the first dry fall, and 6 miles to the second dry fall.
Gain in elevation: 2,460 feet from the start of the trail to the first dry fall.
No, there is no water.
Start at the Titus Canyon parking lot at the mouth of the canyon (west end)
Vehicles are required: any and all vehicles.
Fall Canyon is marked on the maps. topographical map of 7.5 minutes
Reminiscent of Titus Canyon, this canyon is narrow and has high walls. Hike north along the base of the mountains for 12 miles to a large wash, then up into Fall Canyon from the parking lot. After 3 miles, you will come across a dry fall, which can be passed on the south side with some difficulty. Below dry falls, there is a lot of day-use. Backpackers should plan on camping for the remainder of their journey. There is no camping allowed within 2 miles of the road.
Moderate to difficult in terms of difficulty
Hiking styles include no trail, gravel wash, and cross-country.
Distances range from 2 to 10 miles.
Gain in elevation ranges from 300 to 1500 feet.
No, there is no water.
Start with a “Hole-in-the-Wall.”
Vehicle required: high clearance to the Hole-in-the-Wall; 4×4 for the remainder of the journey.
Echo Canyon topo map (7.5 minute hike)
Observations: There are numerous variations possible. Many small side canyons in the large “amphitheatre” between Schwaub and Pyramid Peaks make for excellent loop hikes that can be completed by crossing low divides and returning via another canyon. Depending on your climbing ability, you can explore a number of rugged canyons in Funeral Mountains, which are located just above Hole-in-the-Wall. In the vicinity of the paved road (within 2 miles), there is no camping.
Moderately difficult in terms of difficulty
Hiking styles include informal path and cross-country.
Driving distances: 2 miles to the ranch site from the road’s end, and 7 miles to Panamint City
Gain in elevation: 1100 feet to the ranch site; 4100 feet to the pass
Yes, there is water.
The starting point is at the end of Johnson Canyon Road.
To get to the canyon mouth, you’ll need a vehicle with high clearance; you’ll also need 4×4 for the final 4 miles to the road’s end.
Panamint and Galena Canyon maps are available. Topos are 7.5 minutes long.
Comments: This historic ranch site, which dates back to the 1870s, features rock terraces, a corral, and an orchard. It is possible to continue on to the ghost town of Panamint City by crossing a pass (there is no trail).
Moderately difficult in terms of difficulty
Hiking style: there is no trail; instead, walk gravel washes and cross-country.
Traveling distances: 6 miles to the springs, and 8 miles to the pass
To get to the top, you must climb 3000 feet.
Yes, there is water in the canyon.
Start: Highway 190, approximately 6.5 miles north of the Furnace Creek Visitor Center.
Vehicles are required: any and all vehicles.
Nevares Peak on the Map topographical map of 7.5 minutes
Following the wash bearing left (north), staying in the drainage closest to the ridge, head for a low pass in the mountains to the east. Observations: The final four miles are in the canyon. Camping is not permitted within 2 miles of the road or within 200 yards of springs.
Difficulty level: medium
Hiking styles include cross-country and gravel wash.
Traveling distances: 7 miles to the upper Cyn, and a 16-mile loop to return via Granite Canyon.
Gain in elevation: 1900 feet.
No, there is no water.
Begin at the Confidence Mill site, which is located 6.6 miles south of Ashford Junction on the Harry Wade Road.
A high-clearance vehicle is required.
Confidence Hills East and Confidence Hills West 7.5 minute topo maps are available.
Comments: Hikers can explore several beautiful canyons on the east side of the Owlshead Mountains on the east side of the mountains. Through Canyon is one of the largest in the area, and it leads to a hidden basin deep in the heart of the mountains, where it flows through. A small grove of smoke trees can be found in this area. Returning via Granite Canyon is an option for completing a loop trip.
Difficulty level: medium
Hiking style: there is no trail; it is cross-country.
The dunes are approximately 3 miles away.
Gain in elevation: 1,000 feet
No, there is no water.
To begin, drive 5 miles north of Highway 190 on an unmarked dirt road that leads past Lake Hill.
A high-clearance vehicle is required.
Several maps are available, including the Dunes 7.5 minute topo and the Trails Illustrated Map of Death Valley.
Trail description: Hike across the gently sloping upper end of Panamint Valley to reach the star-shaped dunes. These sand dunes in the middle of nowhere are much more impressive than they appear from a distance. In the week, military jets frequently use Panamint Valley to practise low-altitude flight manoeuvres; however, on weekends, they are less common.
Strenuous is the level of difficulty.
Hiking style: wet canyon with remnants of an old jeep road, with some rock scrambling thrown in.
The distance between the ghost town is 5 miles.
Gaining 4000 feet in elevation to reach the ghost town
Yes, there is water.
Start: 6 miles northeast of Ballarat, on the outskirts of town.
Vehicle requirements: high clearance; 4×4 for the final two miles to the trailhead.
Panamint and Ballarat maps are provided. Topos are 7.5 minutes long.
Comments: An old jeep road that washed out in the 1980s and is now officially closed to vehicles, but it is a fantastic hiking trail nonetheless. The ghost town of Panamint City is an excellent destination, but the mountain scenery, abundant springs, and bighorn sheep all contribute to making this a worthwhile hike. Johnson Canyon Road can be reached after another 7 miles of mostly trailless hiking over a pass.
Strenuous in terms of difficulty
Type of hike: maintained trail
Distance: 7 miles to summit
Elevation gain: 3000 feet
No, water is not an option for you.
Start: Mahogany Flat Campground
Vehicle needed: High-clearance
Maps: Telescope Peak 7.5 minute topo
Comments: Spectacular views of Death Valley and Sierra Nevada. Camping is good in Arcan Meadows between Rogers Peak and Telescope Peak. Grade is steep for last mile of ascent; ice axe and crampons are often necessary in winter. No camping within 2 miles of the road.
Moderately difficult in terms of difficulty
Hiking style: there is no trail; instead, walk gravel washes and cross-country.
Distances: 4.5 miles to Lostman Spring, and 12 miles to Scotty’s Castle Road are the distances.
Elevation loss: 1700 feet from the spring to the road; 4700 feet from the road to the spring
Perhaps at Lostman Spring, there is water.
Start point: 11 miles from the beginning of Titus Canyon Road (do not block road)
A high-clearance vehicle is required.
Thimble Peak is marked on the maps. topographical map of 7.5 minutes
While you can hike all the way to Scotty’s Castle Road with a 2-car shuttle, it is more practical to hike only as far as Lostman Spring and then return to your vehicle. Camping is not permitted within 2 miles of the road or within 100 yards of springs.
Death Valley National Park has more miles of road than any other national park in the United States. Despite the fact that nearly one thousand miles of paved and dirt roads connect the park’s 3.4 million acres of roadless wilderness, there are numerous opportunities for recreation and exploration! For more information on trip planning, consult the Backcountry & Wilderness Access Map & Guide.
This is far-flung territory, after all. Preparing for your trip into the wilderness with the following tools and doing your homework before you leave could save your life.
Instead of relying on a GPS, it is recommended that you use a map. The Death Valley Natural History Association has detailed maps of the area available for purchase.
Warning: The weather has a significant impact on road conditions. Before you embark on your journey, make sure the current weather conditions are known.
The use of campfires is strictly prohibited. Only in established campgrounds, with metal fire rings that have been provided, is it possible to build a fire. Foraging for wood is prohibited in the backcountry, and burning of wood is strictly prohibited. Campfires and propane grills are permitted in all designated areas.
The maximum number of people in a group is 12 and the maximum number of vehicles is 4. In order to accommodate larger groups, they will need to separate and camp at least 1 mile apart.
The desert environment is extremely fragile and takes a long time to recover after being damaged by vehicles. Select a camping spot that has already been disturbed if you are pulling off a road to camp.
The use of pets is only permitted in developed areas and on park roads. It is mandatory to keep them restrained and on a leash at all times. Cleanup of pet faeces is the responsibility of the pet owner. Pets are not permitted off the beaten path, on trails, or in the park’s wilderness areas, according to the rules.
Many areas of the park (such as trailheads, overlooks, dunes, salt flats, and other similar features) are closed to camping, despite the fact that vast swaths of the park are open for backcountry camping. Prior to your trip, take a look at the Backcountry & Wilderness Access Map to find out where camping is permitted.
Along dirt roads that are at least one mile away from any paved road or dirt road that is only used for day trips.
In order to minimise impact, camp only in areas that have been previously disturbed and park your vehicle immediately adjacent to the roadway. The wilderness boundary is approximately 50 feet from the centre of the majority of gravel roads.
Take a printout of the Backcountry & Wilderness Access Map with you on your trip.
CAMPING is not permitted on the valley floor between Ashford Mill in the south and 2 miles north of Stovepipe Wells; it also is not permitted on the Eureka Dunes or in Greenwater Canyon.
Camping sites in the backcountry must be at least 100 yards away from any water source in order to protect these fragile ecosystems for wildlife.
Camping is not permitted on the following day (Saturday). Only dirt roads should be used:
Titus Canyon Road is a road in the Titus Canyon region of California.
West Side Road (also known as Mosaic Canyon Road)
Wildrose Road is a residential street in the town of Wildrose.
Skidoo Road is a road in the United States that is used to transport skidoos.
Aguereberry Point Road is a road in the town of Aguereberry.
Cottonwood Canyon Road is a dirt road that runs through a canyon (first 8 miles only)
Grotto Canyon Road Racetrack Road Grotto Canyon Road Racetrack Road (from Teakettle Junction to Homestake Dry Camp)
Natural Bridge Canyon\sDesolation Canyon
Pinion Mesa Road is a road in Pinion, Arizona.
Big Pine Road is a road in the United States that connects the cities of Los Angeles and San Francisco (22 miles inside of Death Valley National Park)
Camping is not permitted at any of the following historic mining locations:
The Keane Wonder Mine, the Lost Burro Mine, the Ubehebe Lead Mine, and the Skidoo Mill are all nearby.
One mile from all standing mining structures. Camping should be avoided in mining districts as a general rule, both for personal and resource safety reasons.
If you are unsure whether a particular area is open to camping, you should contact the nearest Ranger Station or the Furnace Creek Visitor Center for clarification.
Given the possibility that many springs will be dry or contaminated, plan on bringing your own water or stockpiling it ahead of time. The use of one gallon or more of water per person per day during the hot spring, summer, and fall months is recommended during these months. During the summer, the combination of high temperatures and low humidity creates a high risk of dehydration. When visiting Death Valley National Park during the months of May to October, we do not recommend low-elevation hiking. If you plan to use backcountry water sources, check with a ranger first to make sure there is enough water available. Many springs are only available during specific seasons. Always filter water from sources because burros, horses, and bighorn sheep rely heavily on springs for their water needs.
The higher elevations are cold enough in the winter that snow and ice conditions may necessitate the use of special safety equipment. Do not go down mine shafts, through tunnels, or into buildings. Keep an eye out for rattlesnakes, especially in areas near old structures and densely vegetated areas near bodies of water. Because of the potential for flash flooding, it is not recommended to camp in dry washes or drainages.
Death Valley National Park has few maintained trails and no established campsites in the wilderness, making it a poor choice for backpacking. Because most of the hiking in this area is cross-country, it is critical to hike in areas where your footsteps will have the least impact on the environment. It is important to avoid trampling on vegetation, fragile soil crusts, aquatic habitats, and animal burrows.
Many of the hikes in Death Valley National Park necessitate the use of detailed maps. Online topographic maps, as well as maps available at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center and via phone from the Death Valley Natural History Association at (760) 786-2146, are all available.
The desert is just as vulnerable as any other natural environment. Here are some pointers to help you be a more ethical hiker and camper in the great outdoors.
Before you go on your trip, talk to a ranger or read some publications. When you become familiar with a particular area, you will be able to determine what equipment you will require for a safe trip and for leaving the area in the same condition as you found it.
Because most of the hiking in Death Valley National Park is cross-country, it’s important to choose trails that will have the least amount of impact on the environment. Trampling of vegetation, soil crusts that are fragile, and animal burrows should be avoided at all costs. When walking through canyons with flowing water, it is possible to cause damage to riparian habitats. If at all possible, avoid walking through the water. If you’re on a well-established trail, stick with it. Aside from desert pavement and dry, gravelly washes, there are other low-impact areas to be found. It is best to disperse into smaller groups of 3 or 4 when hiking cross-country in large groups rather than walking single file because this will help to create trails that will last for years and years.
It’s best to stay away from areas with organic ground cover. Instead, select areas that are covered in rock, sand, or gravel. Cooking areas should be kept separate from sleeping areas to ensure privacy. In a concentrated area, this “spreading out” will help to mitigate the negative effects. Large groups should be dispersed in order to minimise their impact.
Solid waste must be disposed of properly in order to prevent pollution of water supplies and the spread of disease. 4-6 inches deep and at least 200 yards from any water source or campsite, dig a “cat-hole” with a small trowel with a small handle. After use, the cat-hole should be covered with soil and disguised with natural materials to prevent it from being discovered.
In addition to online registration, free voluntary camping permits for backcountry camping are available at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center and the Stovepipe Wells Ranger Station, which are open during regular business hours. Hikers who are hiking alone may wish to provide additional information about their plans and emergency contact information.
Bicycles are permitted to be used on all park roads that are open to the general public’s vehicle traffic. These bikes can also be used on routes that have been designated for bicycle use in developed areas, such as the path that connects the visitor centre and the Harmony Borax Plant. They are not permitted on closed roads, service roads, off-roading areas, in the wilderness, or on any trails that are not maintained by the government. Riding a bicycle in front of another bicycle on the park’s narrow roads is dangerous and is strictly prohibited in the park.
Over 785 miles of roads are available in Death Valley, including hundreds of miles that are suitable for mountain biking.
Routes that have been suggested
Roads that are easy to navigate
Path for bicyclists
To begin, go to the Furnace Creek Visitor Center. The distance is one mile to the Harmony Borax Works, as well as one mile one-way through Mustard Canyon. paved and level up to the borax works; gravel through the canyon
Intensity of use: moderate
Salt Creek Road is a road in the United States that connects the cities of Salt Lake City and Las Vegas.
Start location: Highway 190, 13.5 miles west of Furnace Creek.
1.2 miles is the distance between two points. Graded dirt road is the road type.
Intensity of use: moderate
4.5 miles east of Furnace Creek on Highway
190 and extends for 3 miles in a single loop.
Graded dirt road is the road type.
The frequency of use is moderate.
Roads with a moderate degree of difficulty
Hole-in-the-Wall Road begins approximately 6.5 miles east of Furnace Creek on Highway 190 and extends for 4 miles.
Loose gravel is the road surface type.
The frequency of use is low.
approximately 9.5 miles south of Highway 190 on Emigrant Canyon
Road and extends for 7 miles.
Wash-board gravel is the most common road type.
The frequency of use is low.
Aguereberry Point Road is a road in the town of Aguereberry.Road and extends for 7 miles.Wash-board gravel is the most common road type.
The frequency of use is low.
Lake Hill Road begins three miles east of Panamint Springs on Highway 190 and extends for five miles.
Rutted gravel is the most common road type.
The frequency of use is low.
Roads That Are Even More Difficult
The Artist’s Motivation
Start: 9 miles south of Highway 190 on Badwater Road Distance: 9 miles one-way, starting at Badwater Road
paved road with hills is the most common type of road.
The frequency of use is high.
Start: Badwater Road, 6 miles south of Highway 190, on the right side of the road Distance: 40 miles
Road surface is level, but it is a wash-board gravel road.
The frequency of use is moderate.
Trail Canyon Road begins at the intersection of West Side Road and Trail Canyon Road.
8 miles is the distance between two points.
Road conditions: rough uphill into canyon with rocky spots. Route description:
The frequency of use is low.
Greenwater Valley Roadis a road in the Greenwater Valley region of California.
Beginning 7.5 miles south of Highway 190 on Dante’s View Road and ending 30 miles south of Highway 190
Road type: gravel road with a slight uphill grade; level of use: low
Titus Canyon Road is a road in the Titus Canyon region of California.
Start: Nevada Highway 374 (2.7 miles east of the park boundary) is the starting point.
Distance: 28 miles one-way (round trip).
Road characteristics include steep grades and loose gravel.
The frequency of use is moderate.
Cottonwood Canyon Road is a dirt road that runs through a canyon.
Start west of Stovepipe Wells, on the outskirts of town.
Distance: 18 miles Road type: gentle grade, with some deep sand at the beginning and rocky in the canyon at the end
The frequency of use is low.
Racetrack Ubehebe Crater Road begins at the start of the road and runs for 27 miles.
The first ten miles of the road are washboard.
The frequency of use is moderate.
is a road in the Hidden Valley region of California.
Start at Teakettle Junction, which is located on the Racetrack. Distance travelled by road: 10 miles
Gravel roads are the most common.
The frequency of use is low.
A clear distinction can be made between the low valley desert and the high boreal peaks as one travels upwards through the canyons, through the pinyon-juniper woodlands, and onto the high boreal peaks. In turn, the wide variety of habitats leads to a corresponding diversity in the bird species that can be found on the bird list.
It is a long north-south trough located just east of the Sierra Nevada range, and Death Valley and other valleys in the park are no exception. Migratory birds are funnelled into these valleys, where they rest at desert oases and mountains along their journey.
Spring Migration
The desert areas are home to hundreds of species that pass through for a few weeks in the spring and again in the fall. Even as early as the first week of March, the first of the spring migrants can be spotted flying overhead. By the middle of March to the beginning of April, the northbound movement is clearly visible. Around the middle of April, the first wave of warblers arrives in the valley. Hundreds of other species, many of which are in full migration, are also arriving at the same time. In the months of late April and early May, the northbound movement is at its most active.
Nesting
Nesting occurs in the high elevations from mid-February through June and July, when the weather is warm and the springs are long. The months of May through June are the most productive nesting months. Seeing nesting birds is a beautiful sight, but keep in mind that nesting birds are protected under the Migratory Bird Act of 1918, and that disturbing them is against the law.
Fall Migration
By the first week of August, there is clear evidence that the fall migration has begun in earnest. Movements in the southbound direction reach their peak around the end of September. In some cases, however, it is difficult to distinguish between movements that are headed north and those heading south. As early fall migrants begin their southward journeys, late spring migrants may still be on their northward migration route. There are also summering visitors who arrive after the nesting season and who may be mistaken for early southbound migrants.
Winter
The months of November through March are probably the worst for birding; only a few permanent residents, as well as occasional Sierran visitors, are still around. However, by exploring a variety of habitats, it is possible to observe a number of different species. The low mountain springs and desert oases of the park are where the majority of the park’s avifauna can be found. Furnace Creek Ranch, with its diverse range of habitats, is unquestionably a popular destination. Springs that can be found at elevations of up to 4,000 feet are also popular wintering spots for a variety of wildlife.
What to look for when looking for birds
Visiting a variety of representative habitats while birding in Death Valley will prove to be the most fruitful strategy for birders visiting the area. It is possible to gain an overview of the diversity of Death Valley habitat and avian species by visiting the following locations:
Forest Creek Ranch (-200 ft. elevation): This ranch contains a variety of habitats, including ponds; stop by the bird viewing platform near Airport Road for a closer look. The golf course is located on private property and is only accessible to golfers.
At Scotty’s Castle (3,000 feet above sea level), you’ll find a riparian habitat.
Wildrose (4,000 ft. elevation) – riparian habitat on the mountainside.
High Panamints: From Charcoal Kilns to the summit of Telescope Peak (elevations ranging from 7,000 to 11,000 ft), a challenging drive / hike through pinyon-juniper habitat and bristlecone pine communities (recommended only during clear / non-snow conditions).
Backcountry dirt roads lead to Saratoga Spring (60 feet elevation), a low desert oasis accessible only by foot.
ecause of the harshness of the terrain and the scarcity of available water in Death Valley National Park, livestock are not commonly used in the park. Throughout the park, most stock use occurs along backcountry dirt roads or in open wilderness terrain off of the Harry Wade road, which is located in the southernmost section.
Stock animals in Death Valley National Park include horses, mules, and burros, which are all considered to be livestock.
Cross-country vehicles are permitted on any backcountry dirt road, undeveloped wilderness route, or cross-country route.
Stock is permitted on the Wildrose and Ubehebe Peak trails, as well as the Indian Pass, Fall Canyon, Cottonwood/Marble Canyon, and Cottonwood/Marble Canyon hikes.
Stock is not permitted on any other park trails, in developed campgrounds, picnic areas, on paved roads, on the Badwater salt flats, or in any sand dune system, including the Badwater Salt Flats. All campgrounds and picnic areas, as well as all lawn areas, are included in this category. This includes (but is not limited to): the Devils Hole Unit of the park, the Badwater Boardwalk & Trail, the Darwin Falls Trail, the Eureka Sand Dunes, Mesquite Flat Dunes, Ibex Dunes, Golden Canyon Trail, the Harmony Borax Works, The Racetrack, Mosaic Canyon Trail, Salt Creek Trail, Telescope Peak Trail, Ubehebe Crater Trail.
Commercial stock use is not permitted in the wilderness, but it is permitted along backcountry dirt roads if the appropriate Commercial Use Permit has been obtained.
Three days before entering the park, animals must be fed a weed-free diet that has been prepared three days in advance.
Animals are not permitted to graze on the natural vegetation.
Stocks must be kept under strict control at all times.
Animal Manure and Waste All animal manure must be removed, or if it is not reasonably practicable to do so, it must be raked out and spread over a large area to avoid contamination. Fill in all of the holes and restore all of the trampled areas to their original condition.
Get rid of everything, including any unused stock feed.
Overnight stock parties are strongly encouraged to obtain a free permit in order to conduct business.
The maximum group size for stock parties is 12 people, with no more than 8 animals in the wilderness or along backcountry dirt roads, according to the National Wildlife Federation.
It is not permitted to camp with livestock in developed campgrounds.
Stock parties are not permitted to camp within 100 yards of a body of water.
Overnight stock parties are strongly encouraged to obtain a free wilderness/backcountry use permit before setting out on their journey.
Most backcountry roadside campsites, especially those that have been disturbed, are too small and inconvenient for stock. One campsite that is frequently used by stock parties is located on the Harry Wade Road, approximately 12.5 miles south of Ashford Junction, on the south side of the road just east of the Amargosa River crossing. The campsite is located on the south side of the road just east of the Amargosa River crossing.
Death Valley, California 92328, PO Box 579
Note: This is not the official Park website. However, it is an easy-to-use site, with everything you need to plan a trip.
We Guide People to Plan Their trips to Parks
