A VISITOR’S GUIDE TO DEATH VALLEY 2006 NATIONAL PARK

Helping Your National Park This year we are asking you to support your na- Here at Death Valley National Park, there are sev- tional heritage in a bigger way. Many parks, including eral areas where you can experience your money at Death Valley National Park, are increasing entrance work. Explore the new visitor area at Badwater, tour and camping fees to pay for public facilities, research, the newly stabilized historic structures at Harmony and the protection of natural and cultural heritage. Park Borax Works or overnight in campgrounds with new Superintendent JT Reynolds stated, “These areas pre- tables and grills. Some benefits to you are not as obvi- serve our national heritage. America’s heritage pro- ous, but nonetheless enhance your visit to the park. vides our national spirit. You break our heritage and Plans for future use of these funds include a new you break our spirit. You break our spirit and you break parking area at the sand dunes and reconstruction of the country.” Protecting our heritage does not come the historic Cook House at Scotty’s Castle. cheaply! The National Park Service staff is also doing its In 2004, President Bush, realizing that the percent- part to protect the park. Superintendent Reynolds says, age of tax dollars going to the National Park Service “What we accomplish in Death Valley is only possible was not keeping up with the increasing costs of op- because of a dedicated crew of workers... that’s what erations, signed the Federal Lands Recreation En- holds the parks together, this dedication.” Death Val- hancement Act. This Act continues to allow parks to ley National Park’s committed staff continues to make keep 80¢ of every $1 they collect. These funds must it one of the shining stars within the 388 units of the be used to accomplish projects that relate to your visi- National Park system. tor use and enjoyment. But the park staff can not protect the park without your help. Join them in preserving our heritage not only for the sake of the nation, but also for the sake of the world. The staff of Death Valley National Park thanks your for your continuing support.

What’s Inside?

1 ...... Helping Your National Park 7 ...... Points of Interest 2 ...... Park Information 8 ...... Scotty’s Castle 3 ...... Desert Survival 9 ...... Wild Death Valley 4 ...... Native People 10 ...... Planning Your Visit 5 ...... Beyond Tourism 11 ...... Visitor Services 6 ...... Day Hikes 12 ...... Park Map

...to conserve the scenery and the natural DEATH and historic objects and the wildlife therein and to provide for the enjoyment VALLEY of the same in such manner and by such NATIONAL PARK means as will leave them unimpaired of (760) 786-3200 future generations. nps.gov/deva NPS Organic Act 1916 2 PARK INFORMATION

Regulations Protect Your Park

Death Valley National Park and drivers must be properly licensed. Ve- ▼ Keep pets confined or leashed. its resources belong to everyone, we hicles with off-road registration “green Pets are allowed only in developed ar- all must share the responsibility of pro- stickers” may not be operated in the eas and along paved or dirt roads. tecting this land. Please remember and park. ▼ Camping is limited to developed obey the following regulations during ▼ Do not feed or disturb wildlife, campgrounds and some backcountry your stay: including coyotes, roadrunners & areas. For details on backcountry camp- ▼ Collecting or disturbing any ani- ravens. When wild animals are fed by ing and to obtain a free permit, stop at mal, plant, rock or any other natural, his- humans they tend to depend upon this the Furnace Creek Visitor Center or any torical or archeological feature is pro- “unnatural food source” rather than for- ranger station. hibited. age for their natural diet. ▼ Campfires are allowed in firepits ▼ All vehicles must remain on es- ▼ Hunting and use of firearms in the provided in developed campgrounds. tablished roads. This includes motor- park is illegal. Firearms may be trans- They are prohibited elsewhere in the cycles, bicycles, and four-wheel drive ported through the park only if they are park. Gathering wood is unlawful. vehicles. All motorized vehicles and their unloaded and cased. ▼ Please do not litter.

2006 National Parks Pass Will you be visiting several national The 2006 National Parks Pass fea- parks in the next 12 months? If so, you tures a photo of Death Valley National may want to purchase a National Parks Park’s sand dunes near Stovepipe Pass. It allows admission to any national Wells. Chosen from 11,00 entries to the park area—including national monu- National Parks Pass Experience Your ments, recreation areas and historic America Photo Contest, the prize-win- sites—that charges an entrance fee. ning photo was taken by Ron Chiminelli The pass covers the cardholder and any- of Leeds, New York. one traveling in a private vehicle with You can purchase the National Park them. At a cost of only $50 dollars this Pass at any national park where fees pass is a real bargain, especially con- are collected or by visiting the website sidering this year’s fee increases. at www.nationalparks.org

Campground Information Campground Season Elevation Fee Sites Water Tables Firepits Toilets Dump Station

Furnace Creek all year -196´ $18** 136 yes yes yes flush yes Sunset Oct-Apr -196´ $12 1000 yes no no flush yes Texas Spring Oct-Apr sea level $14 92 yes yes yes flush yes Stovepipe Wells Oct-Apr sea level $12 190 yes some some flush yes Mesquite Spring all year 1800´ $12 30 yes yes yes flush yes

Emigrant (tent only) all year 2100´ free 10 yes yes no flush no Wildrose all year 4100´ free 23 yes yes yes pit no Thorndike* Mar-Nov 7400´ free 6 no yes yes pit no Mahogany Flat* Mar-Nov 8200´ free 10 no yes yes pit no

*accessible to high-clearance vehicles only. 4-wheel drive may be necessary. **Furnace Creek Campground fee changes to $12 per night from mid-April to mid-October

RV Hookups are available only at the concession-run Stovepipe Wells RV Camping Reservations Park and the privately-owned Panamint Reservations may be made for the For reservations at Furnace Creek Springs Resort. Furnace Creek Campground and group Campground and group sites call: Texas Springs Campground (Up- sites for October 15 thorough April 15. 1-800-365-2267 or visit the website per Loop) Limits on RV site use may Beginning on the fifth of each month, at reservations.nps.gov apply in springtime to accomodate in- reservations can be made five months creased demand for tent camping in advance. space. Basic Campground Rules

▼ Group size of no larger ▼ Generator hours are from 7 AM to ▼ Pets must be kept on a leash no than 8 people and 2 ve- 7 PM, unless otherwise posted. These longer than 6 feet at all times. Keep- hicles is allowed per camp- hours are chosen to accommodate the ing your pet leashed protects other site. Only one RV allowed per site. needs of the wide variety of people who campers and wildlife as well as your pet. Larger groups wanting to camp to- use Death Valley’s campgrounds. Gen- Pet owners are responsible for clean- gether can reserve the group sites erators are not allowed at Texas Springs ing up after their pets. at Furnace Creek Campground. Campground.

from top: desert trail; Rhyolite ghost town; Jayhawker inscriptions; kit fox; Panamint City ruins; Panamint daisy. 3 DESERT SURVIVAL

Staying Safe & Sound Survive the Drive

▼ Water: Drink at least one gallon ▼ Flash Floods: Avoid canyons dur- ▼ The main cause of death in (4 liters) of water per day to replace ing rain storms and be prepared to move Death Valley is single-car loss from perspiration. Carry plenty of to higher ground. While driving, be alert accidents. extra drinking water in your car. for water running in washes and across ▼ Follow the speed limit to help ▼ Heat & Dehydration: If you feel road dips. negotiate the narrow roads, sharp dizzy, nauseous or a headache, get out ▼ Mine Hazards: Do not enter mine curves and unexpected dips. of the sun immediately and drink plenty tunnels or shafts. Mines may be unstable, ▼ Avoid speeding out of control of water. Dampen clothing to lower your have hidden shafts, pockets of bad air on steep downhill grades by body temperature. Heat and dehydra- and poisonous gas. shifting to a lower gear and gently pressing on the brakes. tion can kill. ▼ Dangerous Animals: Never place ▼ Hiking: Do not hike in the low el- your hands or feet where you cannot ▼ Don’t block traffic. Pull off the evations when temperatures are hot. The see first. Rattlesnakes, scorpions or pavement if you want to stop to mountains are cooler in summer, but can black widow spiders may be sheltered enjoy the scenery. have snow and ice in winter. there. ▼ Wear a seatbelt and make sure it is adjusted to fit snugly. ▼ Summer Driving: Stay on paved ▼ In Case of Emergency: Dial 911 roads in summer. If your car breaks from any telephone or cell phone. Cell ▼ Unpaved roads are subject to down, stay with it until help comes. Be phones may not work in many parts of washouts. Check for conditions prepared; carry plenty of extra water. the park, do not depend on them. before traveling these routes.

Desert Wildlife: Masters of Survival The extremes of summer in Death to keep out. These small rattlesnakes heat from their environment. Deserts Valley pose the ultimate test of survival also spends the hot days in underground have a lot of heat, but little food, so rep- for wildlife. Animals must have special dens. Rather than digging their own bur- tiles are excellent desert dwellers. adaptations of bodies and habits to sur- rows, they simply move into one previ- The tiny pupfish of Salt Creek are Emergency? vive the severe climate. ously occupied by the unlucky rodent also ectothermic, yet they cannot escape Kangaroo rats can live their entire eaten for dinner. the high temperatures of solar-heated Dial 911 lives without drinking a drop of liquid, a Although best known for pools. Pupfish are among the most heat very handy ability when living in a place their odd looping motion of tolerant of all fishes. Some species even famous for its aridity. All of the water travel, live in warm springs. They have been they need to survive can be metabolized known to survive in water temperatures within their bodies from the dry seeds of 112° F. they eat. They also conserve moisture; Another obstacle these fish face is their kidneys can concentrate urine to high salinity. Pupfish can survive in wa- five times that of humans. ter three times saltier than sea water. Kangaroo rats avoid the intense heat sidewinders are well Excess salts are excreted through their of the day in underground burrows that adapted to the ex- kidneys and gills. tremes of Death Valley. are both cooler and higher in humidity During your visit, keep in mind that only Like kangaroo rats, than outside. Water vapor in the humid the ability to carry water and to create sidewinders do not need to drink water. air is reclaimed by special membranes artificial shelter allows you to be All the moisture they need comes from in their nasal passages, and is also ab- here in relative comfort. You the juicy animals they eat. sorbed by the food stored within the den. are not as physically adapted They may even plug the burrow’s en- Endothermic (warm-blooded) animals to survive in Death Valley’s trance with dirt to keep out heat and such as kangaroo rats and humans use heat as its wildlife residents. intruders. food as fuel to produce body heat inter- Sidewinders are the type of unwel- nally, but ectothermic (cold-blooded) come guests the kangaroo rat is trying reptiles like sidewinders must absorb Death in the Dunes

When Sarah and Jason woke up that vited her inside where it was cooler. She Death Valley National Park late summer morning, it looked like it told the ranger she was expecting her receives nearly one million visi- would be just another nice day on their husband soon and that he was “out tors a year. Even when it is hot, honeymoon. They were in their late 20s, there,” motioning with her hand towards people are able to travel through physically fit, and ready for a Death the dunes. By that time, temperatures the valley in the comfort of air Valley adventure. They had no idea of were reaching 110ºF (44ºC) in the shade. conditioned cars. Due to that ease the disaster they were headed for. The ranger became concerned. He sent of travel, visitors often underesti- Like so many who come to the desert, out calls for assistance and within min- mate the dangers of being in one they were drawn to the sand dunes. utes other rangers headed towards of the hottest places on Earth. They started on their hike that morning, Stovepipe Wells. Using binoculars to Could this death have been pre- enjoying the glory of the classic desert scan the dune field from the flank of a vented? This incident tells us that even scenery. After a while, Sarah became nearby mountain and by flying overhead fit and healthy people must use caution. tired; hiking on loose sand can become in the park’s airplane, rangers spotted With better planning, better timing, and difficult and she was getting too hot. She Jason. Several of the most fit park em- enough water this story could have gave Jason the rest of her water and ployees were dispatched to his location. ended differently. (See “Staying Safe & returned to the Stovepipe Wells Ranger When they reached him, he was uncon- Sound” above for more details.) We Station to wait in the shade while he scious and had labored breathing. He must all learn to respect the desert to continued to the far side of the dunes. later died in a Las Vegas hospital. Heat enjoy it safely. and dehydration had proven to be stron- She had already been waiting more ger than he was. than an hour when the park ranger in-

roadrunner with prey 4 NATIVE PEOPLE

Rooted to the Land: Timbisha Shoshone & Mesquite Trees

The Timbisha Shoshone Indians were challenges for the Timbisha. Already ley inhabitants and tourists. In this fierce devastated to learn that pioneers mis- exploited by the mining company, many competition for water, the tamarisk understood their homeland enough to tribal members viewed the National tree—commonly called the salt cedar— name it “Death Valley.” To the people Park Service as simply the newest wave has invaded the mesquite groves, caused who lived in the area for more than a of intruders. Tensions between the park many of the mesquites to become un- millennium, the valley’s resources of- and tribe surged as federal policies healthy, unable to produce pods or spawn fered everything necessary for comfort shifted from decade to decade. After new trees. and contentment. Traditional brush the tribe was uprooted for the last time This deterioration profoundly con- homes made perfect desert dwellings, in 1936, settling into the current Timbisha cerns the modern Timbisha, who take allowing breezes to filter in through the Indian Village at Furnace Creek, an great pride in continuing the mesquite arrowweed walls. Men hunted jackrab- early superintendent arranged for the harvesting traditions of their ancestors. bits and bighorn sheep, using arrows CCC to build adobe homes for native Tribal members express deep distress tipped with stone points. Women wove families. A less progressive administra- that “there are no new mesquite trees willow baskets so intricately coiled that tion in the 1960s ordered these same growing, only old trees dying.” To ad- they could hold water. These were homes washed away with high-power dress—and ideally help reverse—the sometimes decorated with patterns of fire hoses as part of a policy to evict mesquites’ declining health, the tribe interlocking shapes or a delicate geom- tribal members from the park. Through- recently launched the Mesquite Tradi- etry of lizards and butterflies. out these difficult years, the tribe ar- tional Use Pilot Project. The study will dently remained in their village despite The Timbisha’s oral focus on two half-acre plots of mesquite the legally ambiguous situation. As history relates that in the Furnace Creek area, a grove his- Pauline Esteves, Timbisha elder and they have lived in the torically harvested by the tribe that is former Tribal Council Chairperson, elo- mesquite branch area since time imme- said to produce the sweetest pods in the quently wrote: “The Timbisha people in bloom morial—and, many visitors area. Situated on land that is co-man- have lived in our homeland forever and are surprised to learn, still live aged by the Timbisha and the National we will live here forever. We were in the heart of Death Val- Park Service, the grove’s water levels taught that we don’t end. We are part ley today. To fully under- and evaporation rates are now being of our homeland and it is part of us. We stand the valley in all its carefully monitored. The Timbisha hope are people of the land. We don’t break vast dimensions, it is es- that by practicing traditional care for the away from what is part of us.” sential to be aware of this mesquites, the maintained section of deep connection between the natural Esteves wrote those words as the trees will be restored to a healthy state. preface to the Timbisha Homeland Act, The tribe and park service have also “The Timbisha people have landscape and Timbisha Shoshone cul- ture. which Congress finally passed in 2000 collaborated to remove the invasive lived in our homeland forever to establish a 7000-acre land base for tamarisk trees in the area, leaving only Mesquite trees were always a focal the tribe within its ancestral homelands. the native mesquites in most sections of and we will live here forever. point of Timbisha culture. Tribal mem- Three hundred acres of this homeland the Furnace Creek grove. It is hoped We were taught that we don’t bers would help to care for the trees lie within Death Valley National Park, that in the absence of the foreign tama- end. We are part of our home- through the spring, monitoring the new including the Timbisha Indian Village. risk trees, the mesquites will not have growth of leaves. When ripe pods were land and it is part of us. We Today, the tribe and park service are to compete so fiercely for land and wa- ready to be gathered during the late working cooperatively on several ter, healing their root systems and en- are people of the land. We spring, the harvesters would also take projects, but threads of frustration and couraging new growth. don’t break away from what time to clear away dead branches from pain still connect many tribal members is part of us.” each tree. The Timbisha then collected In many ways, the mesquite trees to memories of harsh treatment in the the fallen mesquite pods, grinding them and the Timbisha Shoshone tribe share past. Even after accomplishing the vital Pauline Esteves into a sweet flour and shaping it into a similar story. Both have lived in the step of securing a land base, the Tim- Timbisha elder cakes to take with them into the moun- valley for centuries, their balanced bisha continue to struggle with the fact tains when the valley floor grew too hot. lifestyles disrupted by the coming of for- that there are few prospects of economic These cakes provided food throughout eign inhabitants who crowded their land development in such a remote area. the fall and winter, supplementing a diet and took the water that had always been Despite this challenge, the tribe is now of game and roasted pine nuts. In this theirs. Both the native trees and native constructing a community center and way, the mesquites were not just a food people endured pressure from newcom- working on several projects to help re- source, but part of the tribe’s reciprocal ers that tried to dominate the area, but invigorate their cultural traditions. mortar & pestle with relationship with the land—the people both survived the difficult conditions until mesquite pods cared for the trees just as the trees pro- One of the most important of these is a time when their importance was again vided for them. the Mesquite Traditional Use Pilot understood. And now, with restored land Project. The local mesquite population of their own to grow and the revival of When the long string of gold seekers, has been struggling ever since settlers traditional ways, both the Timbisha borax miners, and other desert explor- diverted much of the water for domes- Shoshone and their mesquite trees will ers began to cross Death Valley after tic use and irrigation of foreign date find a way to thrive again in this changed 1849, their Westward journeys forever palms and tamarisk trees, leaving less world. altered the Timbisha Shoshone’s tradi- behind for the native trees. As the area tional way of life. The ensuing story of developed, even more water was used disease, struggles for land, and harsh to support the growing number of val- Shoshone basket competition for resources is tragically familiar in early American history. When mining companies began digging in the valley, they obtained legal rights to many important water sources that the Timbisha had used for centuries. Soon the Pacific Coast Borax Company be- gan extracting minerals from the Fur- nace Creek area, forcing the tribe to move from their traditional camping area, and relocating them several times to less desirable sites. Death Valley became a national monument in 1933, presenting additional 5 BEYOND TOURISM

Rock Stars, Test Cars, & Cows What do these things have in common? ley has a long cinematic history, from suring that park resources were pro- They represent some of the diverse us- early silent films to more recent block- tected. ers of Death Valley National Park. busters like Star Wars. Rock bands like The Timbisha Shoshone Homeland People from around the world appre- Oasis and U2 have filmed music videos Act, signed into law in 2000, provides ciate Death Valley’s magnificent scen- amidst the otherworldly scenery. Care- for the Timbisha Shoshone Tribe to en- ery and wilderness resources. In 1984, fully inspect television and magazine ads gage in specific traditional activities the United Nations designated Death and you will regularly see shots from within the park. Managing springs and Valley as an International Biosphere this and other national park areas. mesquite groves, and collecting plants Preserve, recognizing it as an ecosys- Summer temperatures in Death Val- for basket making, food, and medicine tem of unique biological importance, ley regularly exceed 115° F (46°C), mak- are just a few of the ways the tribe has where harmonious relationships are pro- ing it one of the hottest places in the lived here with this land for generations. moted between humans and the envi- world. The high temperatures draw A modern phenomenon over the land- ronment. Although managed by the those who want to challenge themselves scape is the sight and sound of low level United States, Death Valley is a show- or their machines. Over thirty different military aircraft. The park is within a case where park officials from as far car makers test their new products in military aircraft training area established away as Hungary and Chile come to Death Valley. Computers are used to by Congress where military pilots prac- share ideas about park management. monitor cooling systems, brakes, trans- tice techniques needed to avoid detec- Death Valley’s protected environment missions, fuel systems, and, of course, tion by enemy radar. While the military is very attractive to scientists for long air conditioners. has agreed not to fly below 3000 feet term study. Geologists travel here to If heat stresses machines, consider above ground level over the old Death study alluvial fans, fault movements, the runners that come here. Every July, Valley National Monument lands, their groundwater systems, and its ancient dozens of ultramarathoners run from planes may be seen flying as low as 200 lake systems. Biologists seek knowledge Badwater to Mount Whitney. This gru- feet in other parts of the park. about subterranean mollusks, rare plant eling 130-mile (210-kilometer) contest Yes, Death Valley National Park is genetics, isolated lizard subspecies, starts at 282 feet (86 km) below sea unique; it contains diverse resources pupfish ecology and population dynam- level and ends at the Mt. Whitney that attract this diversity of park users. ics, specialized insects, and hot spring trailhead at 8,360 feet (2,548 m). The Many of the unusual park uses require and salt crust algae. Other scientists use winner of the year 2000 race finished in special permits; this is to help ensure the park to investigate global issues like just 25 hours, 9 minutes, 5 seconds. that all that visit parklands will not dam- world climate change. Extraterrestrial Cows in a national park? It happens age them in any way. The park was cre- connections include local ground test- in Death Valley National Park under ated to protect the treasures it contains ing of the Mars Rover and satellite re- very special circumstances. A family so that they will be around for future mote sensing techniques that can be has grazed livestock here since the late generations to experience and to enjoy. applied to other planets. 1800s. When part of that area was The wildly diverse scenery draws film added to the park in 1994, they were crews and photographers. Death Val- allowed to continue the historic use, en- New Park Education Program Educators! We want to help you bring curriculum on pupfish and their environ- “Cool Animals in a Hot Place” your students to the park. We know that ment in English and in Spanish. Other eFieldTrip, suitable for ages 8-12. budgets are tight and transportation curriculums are being created focusing If you are interested in bringing a costs are high. Our staff is researching on some of Death Valley’s natural and group of students to Death Valley Na- grants and other private funding to as- cultural wonders. Your input is welcome tional Park or assisting with our curricu- sist classroom visits. and extremely important. lum development, please contact Park And, we are developing curriculums Your classroom can also visit Death Ranger Nancy Hadlock at (760)786- for you to use. Thanks to the efforts of Valley National Park virtually. Log on 3226. local teachers, we have a 3rd / 4th grade to www.nps.gov/deva to access the

Fertile Ground for Research Geologists have always loved Death batholiths, and metamorphic specialists area. Studies of the Death Valley Fault Valley. G.K. Gilbert, a notable geolo- strive to reconstruct the tectonic setting Zone show that no major rupture has gist who worked in the area in the in which many of Death Valley’s rocks occurred in the last 2,000 years, indi- 1870s, remarked that the rock forma- have been deformed. Continuing re- cating that a significant earthquake is tions were “beautifully delineated on the search also involves hydrological moni- now likely. Recent results have also slopes of the distant mountains, reveal- toring to ensure the safety of public shown that spreading rates at Yucca ing at a glance relations that in a fertile drinking water, to study groundwater Mountain are much higher than previ- country would appear only as the re- levels and discharge rates, and to im- ously estimated, raising further concerns sults of extended and laborious investi- prove hydrologic models of the area. about designating this site as a reposi- gations.” In the modern day, scores of Other inquiries seek to solve mysteries tory for high-level nuclear waste. earth scientists continue to scour the such as the movement of the restless Questions remain that will challenge landscape, searching for clues to refine stones of Racetrack playa or the dy- present and future generations of ge- our understanding of the geologic story. namics of crustal movement along the ologists. Because Death Valley National Death Valley contains a smorgasbord enigmatic turtleback faults. Park has been preserved in a relatively of different rock types, offering hearty A great deal of current research fo- undisturbed state, it provides rare op- dishes to suit the palate of a variety of cuses on the recent (Late Cenozoic) portunities for researchers to study natu- geologists. For example, sedimentolo- extensional deformation that has oc- ral systems. The region is geologically gists are currently trying to understand curred in Death Valley. Such work in- alive—as is the science that strives to the formation of alluvial fans, while ig- cludes monitoring of contemporary comprehend this dynamic landscape. neous petrologists attempt to determine earthquake activity and determination of the crystallization history of granitic slip rates on the numerous faults in the

from top:bristlecone pine; charcoal kilns; Little Bridge; rock mimulus;salt detail 6 DAY HIKES

Things to Know Before You Go

Before starting a hike, learn the current Constructed trails are rare in this park. gerous when it is hot. The high peaks can conditions, water availability, and weather Trails are provided in places that are heavily be covered with snow in winter and forecasts. Backpackers should obtain a free used and sensitive to damage. If a trail is spring. The best time to hike in the park permit. there, please use it. Most hiking routes in is October to April. Always carry water. Two liters for a short the park are cross-country, up canyons, or Dogs and bicycles are not allowed on winter dayhike; 4 liters or more in the sum- along ridges. Footing can be rough & rocky. trails or in the wilderness. mer or for long hikes. Hiking in low elevations can be dan-

Trails & Routes

Golden Canyon Trail Mosaic Canyon The second butte is more difficult and 0.7 mile further. Descend 300' to saddle, Length: 1 mile, one-way. Length: ½ to 2 miles, one-way. then climb 500' to next summit. The ridges Difficulty: easy Difficulty: moderate are narrow and exposed with steep drop- Start: Golden Canyon parking area, 2 Start: Mosaic Canyon parking area, 2 offs. No trail. miles south of Hwy 190 on Badwater Rd. miles from Stovepipe Wells Village on Fall Canyon Description: Easy trail through colorful graded gravel road. Length: 3 miles, one-way. canyon. Red Cathedral located ¼ mile Description: Popular walk up a narrow, up canyon from last numbered marker. polished marble-walled canyon. First ½ Difficulty: moderately strenuous Interpretive trail guides are available. mile is narrowest section. Some slickrock Start: Titus Canyon Mouth parking area, scrambling necessary. “Mosaics” of frag- 3 miles off Scotty’s Castle Road on graded Gower Gulch Loop ments of rocks cemented together can gravel road. Length: 4 miles round-trip. be seen in canyon walls. Bighorn sheep Description: Spectacular wilderness can- sighted occasionally. Difficulty: moderate yon near Titus Canyon. Follow informal Start: Golden Canyon parking area, 2 Titus Canyon Narrows path ½ mile north along base of moun- miles south of Hwy 190 on Badwater Rd. tains, drop into large wash at Length: 1.5 miles, one-way. canyon's mouth, then hike 2½ Description: Colorful badlands, canyon Difficulty: easy miles up canyon to 35' dryfall. narrows, old borax mines. Hike up Golden Start: Titus Canyon Mouth parking area, You can climb around the Canyon to marker #10, then follow trail dryfall 300' back down canyon over badlands and down Gower Gulch to 3 miles off Scotty’s Castle Road on graded gravel road. on south side for access to best finish loop. Two easy dryfalls must be narrows. Canyon continues another 3 scrambled down. Ask for Gower Gulch Description: Easy access to lower Titus miles before second dryfall blocks pas- handout at Visitor Center. Canyon. Follow gravel road up wash 1.5 sage. No trail. miles through narrows or continue to Klare Natural Bridge Canyon Springs and petroglyphs at 6.5 miles. Length: ½ mile to natural bridge, 1 mile to end of canyon. Keane Wonder Mine Trail Summer Hikes Difficulty: easy Length: 1 mile, one-way. Dante's Ridge Start: Natural Bridge parking area, 1.5 Difficulty: strenuous miles off Badwater Road on gravel road, Start: Keane Wonder Mill parking area, Length: ½ miles to first summit, 4 miles 13.2 miles south of Hwy 190. 3 miles off Beatty Cutoff Road on graded one-way to Mt. Perry Description: Uphill walk through narrow gravel road. Difficulty: moderate canyon. Large natural bridge at ½ mile. Description: Steep, narrow trail from mill Start: Dantes View parking area Trail ends at dry waterfall. ruins to mine 1500' above. Sweeping Description: Follow ridge north of Dantes views of Death Valley. Do not enter any View for spectacular vistas and a cool Salt Creek Trail mines - they are unstable and hazardous. place to escape summer heat. No trail Length: ½ mile round-trip. An alternative hike in the same area is to for last 3.5 miles Keane Wonder Spring at the base of the Difficulty: easy mountians 1 mile north of the mill Wildrose Peak Trail Start: Salt Creek parking area, 1 mile off trailhead. Hwy 190 on graded gravel road, 13.5 miles Length: 4.2 miles, one-way. north of Furnace Ck. Little Hebe Crater Trail Difficulty: moderately strenuous Description: Boardwalk along small Length: ½ mile, one-way. Start: Charcoal Kilns parking area on up- stream. Good for viewing rare pupfish per Wildrose Canyon Road. Difficulty: moderate and other wildlife. Best in late winter/early Description: A good high peak to climb Start: Ubehebe Crater parking area, 8 miles spring. (9,064 ft.). Trail begins at north end of west of Scotty’s Castle. kilns with an elevation gain of 2,200 ft. Sand Dunes Description: Volcanic craters and elabo- Spectacular views beyond 2 mile point. Length: 2 miles to highest dune. rate erosion. Hike along west rim of Ube- Steep grade for last mile. hebe Crater to Little Hebe and several Difficulty: easy to moderate other craters. Continue around Ubehebe’s Telescope Peak Trail Start: 2.2 miles east of Stovepipe Wells rim for 1.5 mile loop hike. on Hwy 190. Length: 7 miles, one-way. Description: Graceful desert dunes, nu- Death Valley Buttes Difficulty: strenuous merous animal tracks. Walk cross-coun- Length: 1.2 mile to top of first butte Start: Mahogany Flat Campground at end try to 100 ft. high dunes. Best in morning of upper Wildrose Canyon Road. Rough, Difficulty: strenuous or afternoon for dramatic light. Also good steep road after the Charcoal Kilns. Start: Hell’s Gate parking area on Day- for full moon hikes. No trail. Description: Trail to highest peak in the light Pass Road. park (11,049 ft.) with a 3,000 ft. eleva- Description: Climb prominent buttes at tion gain. Climbing this peak in the win- foot of the Grapevine Mountains. From ter requires ice axe and crampons, and Hell’s Gate, walk SW ½ mile to buttes. only advised for experienced winter climb- Scramble up ridge to summit of first butte. ers. Trail is usually snow-free by June.

Salt flats at Badwater Basin 7 POINTS OF INTEREST

Death Valley National Park has 3.3 These are just a few of the most Before venturing out into the park, million acres of desert and mountains, popular points of interest in the park. stop at the visitor center or a ranger sta- making it the largest national park in the Most are easily accessible, but some tions to obtain your park permit, get a contiguous United States. The possibili- require hiking or a vehicle with high map and to inquire about current road ties for discovery are endless! ground clearance. conditions. Enjoy your park.

Furnace Creek Area

▼ Golden Canyon: Hikers entering jagged spires. So incredibly serrated that ▼ Zabriskie Point: Surrounded by a the narrows of this canyon are greeted “only the devil could play golf on such maze of wildly eroded and vibrantly col- by golden badlands within. An interpre- rough links.” The unpaved road leading ored badlands, this spectacular view is tive pamphlet is available. Two-mile to it is often closed after rain. one of the park’s most famous. Zabriskie round-trip walk. ▼ Natural Bridge: Massive rock span Point is a popular sunrise and sunset ▼ Artist’s Drive: Scenic loop drive across interesting desert canyon. The viewing location. The viewpoint is a through multi-hued volcanic and sedi- spur road is gravel and often rough. short walk uphill from the parking area. mentary hills. Artist’s Palette is espe- From the trailhead, the natural bridge is ▼ Dante’s View: The most breathtak- cially photogenic in late afternoon light. a ½ mile walk. ing viewpoint in the park, this mountain- The 9-mile paved road is one-way and ▼ Badwater: Lowest point in the West- top overlook is more than 5000 feet is only drivable with vehicles less than ern Hemisphere, Badwater Basin is a above the inferno of Death Valley. The 25 feet in length. surreal landscape of vast salt flats. A paved access road is open to all vehicles ▼ Devil’s Golf Course: Immense area temporary lake may form here after less than 25 feet in length. of rock salt eroded by wind and rain into heavy rainstorms. Do not walk on the salt flats in hot weather. Stovepipe Wells Area

▼ Sand Dunes: Tawny dunes smoothly ▼ Salt Creek: This stream of salty rising nearly 100 feet from Mesquite water is the only home to a rare pupfish, Flat. Late afternoon light accentuates Cyprinodon salinus. Springtime is best the ripples and patterns while morning for viewing pupfish; in summer the lower is a good time to view tracks of noctur- stream dries up and in winter the fish nal wildlife. Moonlight on the dunes can are dormant. The wooden boardwalk be magical, yet night explorers should loops ½ mile through stands of be alert for sidewinder rattlesnakes dur- pickleweed and past pools reflecting ing the warm season. badland hills. Wheelchair accessible. ▼ Mosaic Canyon: Polished marble ▼ Titus Canyon: One of the largest walls and odd mosaic patterns of brec- and most scenically diverse canyons in cia make this small canyon a favorite. the park. Within its lofty walls visitors The twisting lower canyon is so narrow can find multi-colored volcanic depos- hikers must walk through it single-file. its, a ghost town, Indian petroglyphs, big- Some rock scrambling is required. The horn sheep, and deep, winding narrows. canyon opens up after ½ mile to reveal Titus Canyon is accessible to high-clear- the heights of Tucki Mountain, but hik- ance vehicles via a 26-mile, one-way ers can continue another 1½ miles. dirt road beginning outside the park. Those with standard vehicles may reach the canyon’s mouth from the west via a Titus Canyon Narrows two-way section of road.

Panamint Springs Area

▼ Father Crowley Vista: A landscape ▼ Wildrose Charcoal Kilns: These ▼ Lee Flat Joshua Trees: The finest of dark lava flows and volcanic cinders ten beehive-shaped structures are among stands of tree-sized yuccas in the park abruptly gives way to the gash of Rain- the best preserved in the west. Built in grow in this mountain-rimmed valley. bow Canyon below this viewpoint. Walk 1876 to provide fuel to process silver/ Take the paved but rough Saline Valley the dirt track east of the parking lot for lead ore, they still smell of smoke today. Road to a junction in Lee Flat. The a grand overlook of northern Panamint The last 2 miles of gravel road to the gravel roads in either direction will pro- Valley. kilns are passable to most vehicles. vide good views of Joshua trees.

Scotty’s Castle Area

▼ Scotty’s Castle: Prospector “Death ders and dust settled, this 600 feet deep ▼ The Racetrack: Rocks mysteri- Valley Scotty” claimed this elaborate crater remained. Although easily visible ously slide across the dry lakebed of the Spanish-style mansion was built by gold from the paved road, hikers may want Racetrack, leaving behind long tracks from his fictitious mine. In reality, it was to circle the crater rim to see smaller for visitors to ponder. A high-clearance the 1920s vacation home of his wealthy craters. vehicle is needed to traverse the 27 friends. Today, living history tours of the ▼ Eureka Dunes: Rising majestically miles of rough dirt road, but ask at a castle’s richly furnished interior are given nearly 700 feet, these are the highest ranger station for current road condi- by costumed park rangers. dunes in California. Isolated from other tions. ▼ Ubehebe Crater: More than 3000 dunes, they are an evolutionary island, years ago the desert silence was shat- home to rare and endangered species tered by a massive volcanic explosion of plants and animals. To give them ex- caused by the violent release of under- tra protection, the dunes are off limits ground steam pressure. When the cin- to sandboarding and horseback riding. from top: Zabriskie Point; screwbean mesquite; Natural Bridge; saltgrass; The Racetrack 8 SCOTTY’S CASTLE

Tours of A Monument To Friendship Scotty’s Castle ▼ Hours of operation for Scotty’s Driving through Grapevine Canyon in lars in Scotty’s mine without receiving hound, called it his Castle. Castle and grounds vary season- the northern half of Death Valley Na- a single gold nugget. Johnson became Albert Johnson and Death Valley ally. Contact the castle at tional Park you happen upon a Spanish- suspicious of Scotty and asked if he Scotty came from two very different 760-786-2392 for current hours. style castle that is definitely out of place could come to Death Valley to see the places with very different backgrounds. ▼ Tickets are sold first come, first in this desolate landscape. You rub your gold mine for himself. Under normal circumstances, their paths served. Large groups are recom- eyes wondering if you have just seen a Scotty was only planning on having might never have crossed. Yet these mended to make reservations. desert mirage. Well, your eyes aren’t Johnson around for a couple of weeks , polar opposites had two things in com- ▼ Living History Tours: 50 minute tricking you; this opulent enclave is but he stayed in Death Valley for an mon: a love of the desert and the joy of tour of the interior of the main Death Valley Ranch, though most people entire month. The desert climate and spending time in each other’s company. house and annex by costumed know it as Scotty’s Castle. Though it vigorous activity improved many of Mr. Johnson treasured the friendship he guides conducted as if the year is may look like just a mansion, there is Johnson’s health problems. But perhaps had with Scotty more any money he may 1939. These tours are given at evidence of an amazing friendship scat- the most captivating aspect of Death have lost in their adventures together, least once an hour. ADA acces- tered throughout the ranch complex. Valley was Scotty himself. Exploring the claiming, “Scotty repaid me in laughs.” sible. Death Valley Scotty was born Walter desert together, Scotty and Johnson be- Johnson and Scotty had a unique asso- ▼ Underground Mysteries Tour: Scott in Cynthiana, Kentucky in 1872. gan a friendship that would last the re- ciation where friendship and a good story 50 minute tour of the castle’s When he was 11 years old, he left home mainder of their lives. Albert and his wife trumped the importance of money and basement, tunnels and Pelton and headed to Nevada where he found Bessie enjoyed their repeated visits to the truth. Scotty’s waterwheel. Presented 4 times work as a horse wrangler with his older Death Valley so much that they decided Castle is a monu- daily. This tour is not ADA brothers. He lived the life of a cowboy to build a vacation home in Grapevine ment to that accessible. until he was 17 years old when he was Canyon. They named it Death Valley friendship. recruited for the Buffalo Bill traveling Ranch but Scotty, ever the publicity Tour fees: Wild West show. He performed as a Adults ...... $11.00 roughrider and sharp shooter with the show for 12 seasons, but when he Age 62 or over ...... $9.00 showed up late to the opening day pa- Adults with a disability ..... $6.00 rade in New York City, Buffalo Bill was Children (6-15 years)...... $6.00 not pleased. The resulting disagreement Children under 5 ...... free led Scotty to quit the show. Scotty then turned to mining speculation as a new source of income. He claimed he had a Save $2 by buying tickets to both gold mine in Death Valley and convinced types of tours during your visit. several wealthy businessmen to invest in it. Albert Johnson, the president of the National Life Insurance Company in Chicago invested thousands of dol-

Living History Tour A trip through Scotty’s Castle is a the Main House and Annex portions of Point and Scotty’s grave. memorable part of any visit to Death the Castle each hour from May to Oc- The National Park Service needs Valley. Living History Tours are led by tober and more frequently from Novem- your help to protect the buildings and park rangers dressed in 1930s attire who ber to April. Buy your tickets at the ticket furnishings. Be sure to bring your flash take you back in time to the year 1939. office upon your arrival to ensure your cameras, but please leave your tripods, You can see intricate details of the iron- spot on the next available program. backpacks, and water bottles in your work, hand-carved California redwood, While you wait, the grounds of the vehicle. Food, liquids, gum and tobacco clothes worn by Scotty and the Castle are open for exploration. You products are all prohibited in the Castle. Johnsons as well as original furniture. may explore the desert environment on Please do not touch anything inside the You will discover some of the amenities a hike through Tie Canyon or take a stroll Castle as skin oils and detergent can ir- that made the Castle a truly unique up to the stables where you will find reversibly damage the irreplaceable home. You experience nearly all of the weather-beaten cars that the Johnsons museum objects found throughout the opulently furnished rooms inside the and Scotty owned. You can walk over house. With your help, Scotty’s Castle house including the Upper Music Room to the power house to find generators will be here for future generations to where you will be treated to the sounds and a Pelton water wheel used to pro- enjoy. of a 1,121 pipe theater organ. Every- vide power for the entire Castle com- day, ranger-led tours take visitors inside plex. Another trail leads you up to Windy

Underground Mysteries Tour Visitors who tour the interior of The intricate one-quarter mile of tun- windows can imagine how the swim- Scotty’s Castle walk away with diverse nels beneath the Castle contain the his- ming pool might have appeared had it ideas about the Castle’s significance. toric utilities, including a battery room been completed. The ranger will also One of the most surprising is that where energy was stored for latter use. show visitors how the National Park Scotty’s Castle is a technological mys- Prior to 1964, electricity was primarily Service is preserving and protecting the tery of self sufficiency and comfort. produced by a hydro-electric power Castle for the enjoyment of future gen- Underground Mysteries tours are not plant, ran by water from a spring located erations. just for engineers or the mechanically in upper Grapevine Canyon. The his- Underground Mysteries tours are an inclined. Most visitors are in awe of toric utilities provided Castle residents interesting alternative for visitors who what lies beneath the Castle. Guided by with contemporary amenities and physi- have already attended a living history a uniformed ranger, the tour takes visi- cal comfort. Castle tour. For the first time visitor, tors into the Castle basement, through a Historic tiles are stored in the tunnels, combining both tours makes for a com- maze of tunnels, and into the Power- including the swimming pool tiles. Visi- plete Castle experience. Underground house. tors standing before the pool viewing Mysteries tours are not ADA accessible.

Scotty’s Castle chimes tower WILD DEATH VALLEY 9

What is Wilderness? Death Valley wilderness facts: “If future generations are to re- the tangible resources of wilderness— let nature prevail. In wilderness, natural member us with gratitude rather habitat for wildlife, free flowing streams, ▼ Death Valley was protected as a processes are the primary force acting watersheds, biological diversity, cultural than contempt, we must leave upon the land, and the developments of national monument in 1933 and re- artifacts and historic structures—but designated a national park in 1994. them something more than the modern technological society are sub- also the intangible “benefits of an en- stantially unnoticeable. ▼ Death Valley is the largest Na- miracles of technology. We must during resource of wilderness.” The Wilderness Act reached beyond tional Park in the lower 48 states. leave them a glimpse of the world The diverse benefits of wilderness ▼ About 95% of Death Valley Na- defining wilderness. The goal of the Act vary according to the individual who as it was in the beginning . . .” tional Park is designated wilderness. was to preserve wilderness and the wil- contemplates wilderness or seeks a wil- President Lyndon B. Johnson, derness experience for future genera- derness experience. Wilderness areas ▼ The National Park Service man- upon signing the tions. But, why did Americans feel the provide opportunities for physical and ages more designated wilderness Wilderness Act, 1964 need to preserve wilderness for future mental challenge, self-reliance, and soli- acreage than any other land man- generations? tude. As a haven from the pressures of agement agency in the U.S.A. Wilderness is a word of many mean- Citizens realized that even though modern society, wilderness can inspire ▼ California has the most designated ings. From a place to be feared to a wild lands were protected as a national personal renewal, artistic expression, wilderness acreage in the lower 48 place to be revered, wilderness can park or national forest, humans could and the opportunity to explore Ameri- states, about 13.7% of the state is evoke images of wild animals, cascad- still affect the landscape in ways that can heritage. Some people appreciate wilderness. ing streams, jagged mountains, vast prai- diminished its natural qualities. The Wil- wilderness from afar, overlooking ex- ries, or immense deserts. For individu- derness Act was a response to public pansive vistas of wild lands from a road- als, wilderness can mean physical chal- concern that wild areas be protected side or simply by imagining wilderness lenge, grand vistas, solitude, community, permanently by law, not subject to the areas in their minds. renewal, or respite from a complex tech- discretion of agencies or administrations. Wilderness was passed on to us by nological society. This desire for permanent protection is individuals, known and unknown, who On September 3, 1964, President heard in the opening words of the Wil- worked to preserve their dream, an Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Wilder- derness Act. Congress declared: “In American dream, of public lands pro- ness Act. This law states: “A wilder- order to assure that an increasing popu- tected by law to be forever wild. The ness, in contrast with those areas where lation, accompanied by expanding settle- primary author of the Wilderness Act, man and his own works dominate the ment and growing mechanization, does Howard Zahniser, stated: “The wilder- landscape, is hereby recognized as an not occupy and modify all areas within ness that has come to us from the eter- area where the earth and its commu- the United States...leaving no lands des- nity of the past we have the boldness to nity of life are untrammeled by man....” ignated for preservation and protection project into the eternity of the future.” in their natural condition, it is hereby The word untrammeled captures the declared to be the policy of the Con- Wilderness areas offer glimpses into essence of wilderness. Simply put un- gress to secure for the American people the past and provide places to envision trammeled means “free of constraint or of present and future generations the the future. unhindered.” Wilderness areas are benefits of an enduring resource of wil- reprinted from an National Park Service places where a conscious decision has derness.” Wilderness Site Bulletin been made by the American people to The Wilderness Act protects not only Keep Wildlife Wild The coyote is the icon of wildness in Feeding wild animals habituates them National Park Service does not relocate most desert parks. When we see a coy- to humans and our food. Coyotes lose animals at Death Valley. ote eating from peoples hands, roaming their natural fear of humans and can be- However, the problem still exists and picnic areas and waiting roadside for come aggressive when food is not forth- more drastic measures are being taken. handouts we lose a lot of that wild ex- coming or if they feel cornered or Current policy in Death Valley National perience we originally came to the park threatened. This poses a hazard to the Park is to haze the habituated animal by to enjoy. visitor. Coyotes can inflict serious bite inflicting mild pain to deter the coyote Coyotes are both scavengers and wounds and have the potential to carry from returning to the site and break it of predators and—like human beings— rabies. Small children and pets could its begging behavior. Only a selected would rather take the easy way out. become targets of hungry or angry coy- number of well trained National Park They will eat at any opportunity. When otes. In addition, when a visitor stops in Service employees are allowed to con- visitors offer food, coyotes will gladly the road to feed or photograph a coyote duct these activities. Under no circum- take it. Death Valley National the visitor and coyote both become traf- stances should you, the visitor, engage Park is their home; they be- fic hazards. in wildlife hazing. long here, but feeding wild An oft posed question Although unpleasant, hazing is better animals does not. In to rangers is, “Why don’t than the final alternative, euthanasia. In fact, it is illegal. you just trap and relocate the order to protect the visitors and end the The law is in- animal?” When you relocate cycle of habituated animals many parks tended to protect a coyote you are placing it have euthanized animals. It is not an park resources in the territory of another activity that any park employee wants and people. coyote. One of the to undertake. them will end up in a A begging coyote’s behavior is not the marginal habitat animals’ fault. It is doing what comes and could starve. easiest, but that is not always the most As long as visi- healthful. Even with the Park Service tors are feeding coy- taking the above measures, YOU are otes, the animal’s “pre- the most important link in solving this ferred” habitat is where problem. Please help us keep our wild- the visitors are. If relo- life wild and alive by not feeding any of cated, the coyote will at- the wild animals in Death Valley or any tempt to return and may other National Park. starve or be hit by an automobile during the journey. For these reasons

left: coyote with prey right: blue-eyed grass, dragonfly, & yerba mansa 10 PLANNING YOUR TRIP

The Best Time to Visit

Death Valley National Park is usu- ▼ Springtime is the most popular time scope and Wildrose Peaks are at their ally considered a winter park, but it is to visit Death Valley. Besides warm and best in summer, but it is best to wait until possible to visit here all year. When is sunny days, the possibility of spring wild- autumn for most other hikes. the best time to visit? It all depends on flowers is a big attraction. If the previ- what you’re looking for. ous winter brought rain, the desert can ▼ Autumn arrives in late October, with put on an impressive floral display, usu- Temperatures warm but pleasant temperatures and ally peaking in late March to early April. generally clear skies. The camping sea- Check our website for wildflower up- Average Max Average Min dates. Spring break for schools through- son begins in fall and so do the Ranger January 65°F / 18°C 39°F / 4°C Programs, which continue through out the west brings families and students February 72°F / 22°C 46°F / 8°C spring. Although it is relatively un- to the park from the last week of March crowded at this time of year, the weeks through the week after Easter. Camp- March 80°F / 27°C 53°F / 12°C leading up to Death Valley ‘49ers En- grounds and lodging are usually packed April 90°F / 32°C 62°F / 17°C at that time, so reservations are recom- campment (second week in November) May 99°F / 37°C 71°F / 22°C and the Thanksgiving holiday are busy. mended. June 109°F / 43°C 80°F / 27°C ▼ Winter has cool days, chilly nights ▼ Summer starts early in Death Val- and rarely, rainstorms. With snow cap- ley. By May the valley is too hot for July 115°F / 46°C 88°F / 31°C ping the high peaks and low angled win- most visitors, yet throughout the hottest August 113°F / 45°C 85°F / 29°C ter light, this season is especially beauti- months, visitors from around the world September 106°F / 41°C 75°F / 24°C still flock to the park. Lodging and camp- ful for exploring the valley. The period October 92°F / 33°C 62°F / 16°C after Thanksgiving and before Christmas ing are available, but only the most hardy is the most uncrowded time of the entire will want to camp in the low elevations November 76°F / 24°C 48°F / 9°C year. Peak winter visitation periods in- in the summer. Most summer visitors December 65°F / 19°C 39°F / 4°C clude Christmas to New Years, Martin tour by car to the main points of interest ▼ Record High: 134°F / 57°C July 1913 Luther King Day weekend in January along the paved roads but do little else ▼ and Presidents Day weekend in Febru- due to the extreme heat. Those want- Record Low: 15°F / -9°C January 1913 ary. Reservations will be helpful. ing to hike will find the trails to Tele- Official weather station at Furnace Creek.

Useful Books & Maps The Death Valley Natural History Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing visitors to Death Valley National Park with a quality educational experience. These suggested offerings from our publications were chosen to help you plan your visit and make the most of the time you spend in Death Valley. Prices may change without notice.

▼ A Traveler's Guide to Death Val- ▼ Death Valley SUV Trails (Mitchell) ▼ Death Valley National Park Map ley National Park (Lawson) Beauti- This is a four-wheeler’s guide to 46 in- (Trails Illustrated-National Geographic ful color photographs, informative text teresting back road excursions in the Maps) Waterproof, tearproof, 100% and maps organized into chapters de- greater Death Valley Region. 314 pages. plastic topographic map. Included scribing areas of the park to visit in one $19.95 backcountry road descriptions, trails/ day. 42 pages. $8.95 ▼ Death Valley National Park Guide routes, and safety tips. $9.95 ▼ Best Easy Day Hikes: Death Val- Map (Automobile Club of Southern Cali- ley (Cunningham & Burke) Includes fornia) A detailed map including points Death Valley concise descriptions and simple maps of interest, lodging and restaurants, Natural of 23 short, easy-to-follow routes within campgrounds, supplies and services with the park. 120 pages. $6.95 descriptions. $4.95 History ▼ Hiking Death Valley: A Guide to ▼ Southern Nevada & Death Valley Association its Natural Wonders and Mining Past Area Map (California State Automo- P.O. Box 188 (Digonnet) A comprehensive guidebook bile Association) A map covering the Death Valley, CA 92328 providing 280 hiking/driving destinations area from Las Vegas to the Southern ranging from easy day hikes to multiple- Sierra Nevada. Includes Death Valley, 1-800-478-8564 day treks. 542 pages. $19.95 Lake Mead, Sequoia-Kings Canyon and [email protected] Mojave Preserve. $4.95 Nearby National Park Areas California ▼ Sequoia-Kings Canyon Nat’l. Parks Arizona 559-565-3341 ▼ Death Valley National Park ▼ Grand Canyon National Park nps.gov/seki 760-786-3200 928-638-7888 nps.gov/deva ▼ Yosemite National Park nps.gov/grca 209-372-0200 ▼ Devils Postpile National Monument ▼ Pipe Spring nps.gov/yose 760-934-2289 National Monument nps.gov/depo Utah 928-643-7105 ▼ Joshua Tree National Park ▼ Bryce Canyon National Park nps.gov/pisp 760-367-5500 435-834-5322 Nevada nps.gov/jotr nps.gov/brca ▼ Lake Mead National Rec. Area ▼ Manzanar National Historic Site ▼ Cedar Breaks National Monument 702-293-8990 760-878-2932 435-586-9451 nps.gov/lame nps.gov/manz nps.gov/cebr ▼ Great Basin National Park ▼ Mojave National Preserve ▼ Zion National Park 775-234-7331 760-733-4040 435-772-3256 nps.gov/grba nps.gov/moja nps.gov/zion

coyote melon 11 VISITOR SERVICES Kids! Furnace Creek Visitor Center You can become a (760) 786-3200 Junior The Visitor Center is operated by the National Park Service. Open 8AM-5PM daily. The Death Valley Natural History Association (a non-profit organization) operates the bookstore. Ranger! ▼ Museum ▼ Orientation Programs Visit our Website at: ▼ Bookstore ▼ Ranger Talks nps.gov/deva Want to have fun while exploring Death Valley? You can become a ▼ Information ▼ Evening Programs Junior Ranger with the Junior Ranger booklet that can be picked Furnace Creek Inn & Ranch up at any Death Valley National Park Visitor Center. Just complete (760) 786-2345 the right number of activities for your age and get your booklet signed Furnace Creek Inn & Ranch is privately owned and managed by Xanterra Parks & Resorts. by a Park Ranger. Upon comple- tion of your booklet and after recit- ▼ Motel ▼ Gas/Diesel 24 HOUR W/ CREDIT CARD ▼ Paved Airstrip ing the Junior Ranger pledge, you ▼ ▼ ▼ Restaurants and Bars Tire Repair & Towing Borax Museum will receive your Junior Ranger ▼ General Store ▼ Propane 8AM - 4PM ▼ Horse & Carriage Rides badge. ▼ ATM ▼ Showers ▼ Golf Course Why not join a Park Ranger for ▼ Gift Shops ▼ Laundromat ▼ Tennis Courts a Junior Ranger Program and ▼ Swimming Pools ▼ Post Office receive a certificate? During the fall, winter or spring, stop by a Visi- tor Center at Furnace Creek or Scotty’s Castle Scotty’s Castle to check on avail- ability, times, and locations. Present (760) 786-2392 your Junior Ranger certificate or Scotty’s Castle is operated by the National Park Service. Living History tours are offered by park rangers. Hours vary seasonally. completed Junior Ranger booklet at The concession is operated and managed by Xanterra Parks & Resorts. any Visitor Center bookstore and you can purchase a special Junior ▼ Daily Tours of Castle Tour fees: Living History Tours: Tour of the Ranger patch for a small fee. What a great way to explore Death Val- ▼ Self-guided Walking Trails Adults ...... $11.00 interior of the main house and annex by costumed guides conducted as if ley! ▼ Museum Age 62 or over ...... $9.00 the year is 1939. ▼ Bookstore Adults with a disability ...... $6.00 Underground Mysteries Tour: Children (6-15 years)...... $6.00 ▼ Gift Shop and Snack Bar Tour of the castle’s basement, Children under 5 ...... free ▼ Gas Station 9 AM-5PM tunnels and Pelton waterwheel. Stovepipe Wells (760) 786-2387 Stovepipe Wells Village is a park concession, operated and managed by Xanterra Parks & Resorts.

▼ Motel ▼ Convenience Store ▼ Showers ▼ Restaurant & Bar ▼ Gift Shop ▼ Paved Airstrip ▼ RV Hook-ups ▼ ATM ▼ Ranger Station

▼ Gas Station 24 HOUR W/ CREDIT CARD ▼ Swimming Pool Panamint Springs (775) 482-7680 Panamint Springs Resort is privately owned and operated.

▼ Motel ▼ Campground ▼ Showers

▼ Restaurant ▼ RV Hook-ups ▼ Gas Station 24 HOUR W/ CREDIT CARD

Medical Services Auto Repair Recycling ▼ Beatty Clinic ▼ Furnace Creek Chevron: Join the National Park Service, Xanterra Beatty, NV (775) 553-2208 AAA Towing Service (24 hour) Parks & Resorts, U.S. Postal Service and ▼ Pahrump Urgent Care Facility ▼ California: Baker, Bishop, Lone Timbisha Shoshone Tribe by recycling. Pahrump, NV (775) 727-6060 Pine, Ridgecrest Look for recycling bins at the ▼ Death Valley Health Center ▼ Nevada: Beatty, Pahrump, Tonopah campgrounds, visitor center, ranger Shoshone, CA (760) 852-4383 stations, post office and hotels. ▼ Southern Inyo Co. Hospital Lone ▼ Paper: mixed paper, including Pine, CA (760) 876-5501 Church Services magazines, books, & newspapers ▼ Nye County Medical Center ▼ Aluminum cans: please crush Interdenominational Christian Worship Tonopah, NV (775) 482-6233 ▼ Glass containers: please rinse on Sundays at 9:00 AM at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center Auditorium. ▼ Plastic bottles: remove caps, rinse & crush

Furnace Creek Inn DEATH VALLEY NATIONAL PARK UserFee It is unsafe & against the law Park Entrance Fee to feed wild animals. vehicle (non-commercial): $20 motorcycle/bicycle: $10 To Tonopah and Reno All visitors to Death Valley National Park must pay an entrance fee or present a National Parks Pass, Golden Eagle, Golden Age or Golden Access Pass. To pay the park entrance fee, stop at a

267 Visitor Center, Ranger Station, or auto- 95 mated fee machine.

To Big Pine Recieve the official park map when you Eureka Dunes ★ present your reciept or pass at the Visitor Scottys Center or a ranger station. Castle ★

NEVADA Ubehebe Crater ★ CALIFORNIA

MESQUITE SPRING Rhyolite DEATH (ghost★ town) N Beatty

O

Y

N

A C 374 FALL

★ Titus Canyon

Death Valley Buttes VALLEY ▲

95 ★ The Racetrack Keane Wonder Mine Stovepipe Sand Dunes Lone Pine Wells ★ Lathrop Wells Village ★ To ■ Salt Creek Las Vegas Lone Pine ★ 373 Interagency 190 Visitor Center Mosaic Canyon 136 ★ EMIGRANT Amargosa Lee Flat Joshua Trees FURNACE CREEK SUNSET Valley Visitor Center ■ TEXAS SPRING 395 Ash Meadows Zabriskie Point National Wildlife Furnace Creek ★ Refuge Father Crowley Point 190 Golden Canyon ★ ★ Twenty Mule Team Canyon Panamint Springs Aguereberry Point 190 ★ Artists 127 Drive To Pahrump & Devils 190 Las Vegas ▲ Wildrose Peak Natural Olancha Golf Course Bridge WILDROSE ★ ★ Death Valley ★Charcoal Kilns Junction THORNDIKE Badwater★ MAHOGANY FLAT ★ Dantes View ▲ Telescope Peak

0 10 Kilometers 0 10 Miles

Inquire about unpaved road conditions before traveling. NATIONAL Paved roads 178 Unpaved road 178 High clearance recommended Shoshone ★ Points of Interest (see page 7) North Campground

To Ridgecrest To Gas station & Maturango Museum PARK Tecopa 127

To I-15 & Baker

A VISITOR’S GUIDE TO Death Valley National Park

Articles & Information: P.O. Box 579 Death Valley, CA 92328 This guide is a publication of the National Park Service Staff (760) 786-3200 National Park Service Illustrations: in cooperation with the Tah Madsen nps.gov/deva Death Valley Natural History Association