Death Valley National Park

Photo Essay: Hiking the Andes with Mountain Lodges of Peru

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Because of the great distances involved, an automobile or other vehicle is a necessity for access to most of Death Valley's varied and unusual sites. Yet the best way to become intimately acquainted with this beautiful land is to visit at least a small corner of it on foot. Hiking in Death Valley National Monument in hot weather is possible, and can yield exciting discoveries. However, the site chosen for hiking can be critical.

There are several hazards; the most dangerous are heat and accompanying dehydration.

Some basic recommendations: Avoid the salt flats in hot weather. Visitors are advised not to walk away from their vehicles onto the salt flats (or anywhere below sea level) when temperatures are above 100 F (38 C). There is no shade to protect hikers from blazing reflected sunlight, and summer ground temperatures can exceed 200 F.

Distances are deceiving in the dry desert air; the mountains that look only a few hundred yards away are really almost 10 miles (16 k) from the Badwater Road. Also, the terrain across the salt flats is seldom as firm as it appears. You may find yourself slogging through briny ankle deep mud. Safer and more pleasant walks are to be found in the neighboring mountains.

Always carry water with you as you hike. Water sources within the monument are not reliable and often not safe to drink. Plan on carrying a minimum of 1 gallon (4 liters) of water per person per day; 2 gallons (8 liters) per person per day are better. Be sure to drink the water you bring. It will do you no good in your canteen. Drink before you get thirsty. By the time you feel thirsty, tired and nauseous, you are suffering from dehydration.

If you feel dizzy, nauseous, develop a severe headache or shortness of breath, drink water immediately and rest in the shade. Heat and dehydration can kill. The high country circling the valley floor offers many cooler and safer choices for summer hiking. Walking up side canyons can be fun, but be aware of potential dangers: Flash floods are a possibility anytime. Storms can come up suddenly, and even if it is not raining where you are hiking, torrential rain on higher ground can fill washes and canyons quickly. Be aware of weather conditions, and if it begins to rain, get out of a wash or streambed and onto higher ground.

Also be aware of flash flood channels when you park for a day hike. Your car may not be where you left it when you return! A few animals here in Death Valley can be dangerous. Rattlesnakes can lie curled under a rock or log, in a hole or on a ledge above your head. Many coyotes near campgrounds and roadside turnouts have become dependent on human"handouts." They can be bold and aggressive, and should be considered dangerous. Never feed wild animals.

Many trails are not well marked or well maintained. Be sure you know where you are, and are sure of the route back to your car. Distances and directions can be deceiving. To help you plan your time in Death Valley, topographic maps and a list of suggested day hikes are available from the information desk at the Visitor Center, or you can ask a ranger for current information and suggestions. Voluntary backcountry registration is also available at the Visitor Center for your protection; you can list your departure time, location, and expected time of your return. Enjoy your hike!

Driving in the Heat

Rumor has it that car manufacturers test the heat capabilities of their new vehicles by putting them through the paces at Death Valley. But you're not testing anything; you're just trying to get in, and get out and have a good time doing it. Here are some pointers. . .

Going uphill and when the car slows down, to avoid heating the engine shift to a lower gear. Going down hill continue in low gear so the car does not speed up, thereby not using the brakes as much ( this prevents your brakes from burning out). As you drive towards Death Valley on Highway 190, as approaching the Saline Valley turn off sign on the right side of the highway turn off your air conditioner. This is important to prevent your engine from overheating. When you reach the summit at 5000 ft and start down the grade, you can turn on the air conditioner. When you leave Panamint Springs Resort and travel east across Panamint Valley; midway there is a sign on the right side of the highway that reads "Turn Off Your Air Conditioner." As you pass the summit, Towns Pass, 4963 ft and start down the grade you can turn on your air conditioner.

These instructions also apply for the grade going to Beatty, Nevada. Carry one gallon of water per person. If you have car problems and stop— do not leave your car. The highway is patrolled by officers.

Hiking in Death Valley
Longer Hikes | Shorter Hikes | Surviving the Heat
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