The park's wildlife has evolved remarkable adaptations to survive in the extreme desert environment. Notable species include the endangered Death Valley pupfish, which survives in isolated springs and streams. Desert bighorn sheep inhabit the mountain ranges, while coyotes, kit foxes, and various reptiles are common throughout the park. The area is home to numerous bird species, including roadrunners and ravens. Many animals are nocturnal or crepuscular, becoming active during cooler hours to avoid the intense daytime heat.
Despite the extreme conditions, Death Valley hosts over 1,000 plant species, with many being endemic to the region. Plants have adapted unique survival strategies, including deep root systems, waxy coatings to reduce water loss, and dormancy during extreme heat. The park features desert wildflowers that create spectacular spring blooms during years with sufficient rainfall. Common plant species include creosote bush, desert holly, mesquite, and various cacti. Higher elevations support pinyon-juniper woodlands, while salt-tolerant pickleweed thrives in the salt pans.
Death Valley's dramatic landscape showcases over 1.8 billion years of geological history. The park features a complex array of geological formations, including fault-block mountains, salt pans, alluvial fans, and sand dunes. Badwater Basin, at 282 feet below sea level, is North America's lowest point. The valley itself was formed by extensional forces that continue to shape the Basin and Range Province. The colorful rock layers of places like Artist's Palette reveal mineral-rich deposits, while the mysterious moving rocks of the Racetrack Playa demonstrate unique geological phenomena caused by ice sheets and wind.
The area's human history spans thousands of years, beginning with Native American tribes, particularly the Timbisha Shoshone, who adapted to the harsh environment. The valley gained its morbid name during the California Gold Rush of 1849 when a group of lost pioneers, believing the valley would provide a shortcut to California, endured devastating conditions with only one death recorded. Mining operations, particularly for borax, shaped the region's development in the late 1800s, with the famous 20-mule team borax wagon trains becoming an iconic symbol. Death Valley was designated as a National Monument in 1933 and was expanded and redesignated as a National Park in 1994.
Death Valley's most iconic attractions include Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America; Zabriskie Point, offering spectacular sunrise views over the badlands; Dante's View, providing panoramic vistas of the valley from 5,575 feet; and the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, showcasing classic desert landscapes. The historic Scotty's Castle (currently under renovation), the colorful Artist's Drive, and the surreal salt formations of the Devil's Golf Course are other significant features. The park also contains the Ubehebe Crater, a massive volcanic crater, and Telescope Peak, the highest point in the park at 11,049 feet, offering dramatic elevation changes within short distances.
Death Valley is renowned as one of the hottest and driest places on Earth, holding the world record for the highest reliably recorded air temperature at 134°F (56.7°C) in 1913. The park experiences extremely hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 120°F (49°C), while winters are mild with occasional freezing temperatures at higher elevations. Rainfall is scarce, averaging less than 2 inches (50mm) annually, with most precipitation occurring in winter. The extreme temperatures and arid conditions are caused by a combination of the valley's below-sea-level elevation, surrounding mountain ranges that trap hot air, and the rain shadow effect.
USA
36.5050°, -117.0790°
February 11, 1933
13650.3
Death Valley is the largest national park in the contiguous United States and the lowest point in North America. The park is known for its extreme temperatures, diverse desert landscapes, and unique geological features. Badwater Basin, at 282 feet below sea level, is the lowest point in North America.