Find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about Death Valley National Park
Q: Where is Death Valley National Park located?
A:Death Valley National Park is located in southeastern California and also parts of it are in Nevada. It is between the Amargosa Desert in Nevada and the Inyo National Forest in California.
Q: Where did the name “Death Valley” originate?
A:Death Valley was given its forbidding name by a group of pioneers lost here in the winter of 1849-1850. Even though, as far as we know, only one of the group died here, they all assumed that this valley would be their grave. As the party climbed out of the valley over the Panamint Mountains, one of the men turned, looked back, and said “goodbye, Death Valley.”
Q:What is the hottest temperature ever recorded here?
A:In July 1913 it hit 134°F (57°C) at what is now Furnace Creek Ranch. Although this was the world record at the time, it has since been exceeded by two degrees Fahrenheit at a weather station in Libya.
Q: Is it safe to visit Death Valley in the summer?
A:Yes, but you must be prepared and use common sense. With an air conditioned vehicle you can safely tour many of the main sites in Death Valley. Stay on paved roads in summer, and if your car breaks down, stay with it until help arrives.
As a caution always bring plenty of water in your car in case of emergency and drink at least 2 to 4 liters per day, more if you are active in the heat. Summer hiking is not recommended except in the early morning hours and in the mountains.
Q:What is there to see at Death Valley National Park?
A:Despite the harshness and severity of the environment, more than 900 kinds of plants live within the park. Despite its foreboding name Death Valley is actually an active world of exciting contrasts and wonder. Many visitors come for the fascinating environment and history of the area.
Q:What is the recommended stay duration?
A:Minimalist (3 Days)
Driving/Sightseeing: 1 Day
Hiking/Exploring: 1 Day
Activities/Tours/Special Programs: 1 Day
Adventurist (5-6 Days )
Driving/Sightseeing: 2 Days
Hiking/Exploring: 1-2 Days
Activities/Tours/Special Programs: 1-2 Day
Notes: Death Valley covers a large region and despite its desolate facade, is actually full of fascinating places to see and things to do. Free ranger-led activities are available mid-Oct through mid-Apr. Driving around the park will take the better part of a day. There is also plenty of hiking opportunities, historic sites, living history tours, bicycling, bird-watching, horseback riding, golfing and more available in the park. Some spots that should be on your itinerary list include Scotty's Castle, Furnace Creek Inn, Harmony Borax Works, Keane Wonder Mine, and several interesting Ghost Towns. There are also many miles of gravel and 4-wheel drive roads to be explored throughout the park as well that can lead to many interesting discoveries.
