Park Stats
Park Location: Death Valley, California
Park #: 53
Park established: October 31, 1994 (designated as a National Monument in 1933)
President in office: President Bill Clinton
Park size: 3.4 million acres
Highest elevation: 11,049 feet (Telescope Peak Summit)
Lowest elevation: -282 feet (Badwater Basin)
Visitors: 1,128,862 in 2022
Fun facts:
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5th Largest National Park
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One of the driest places on earth.
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More than 170 miles of hiking trails.
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Animals you may see include bighorn sheep, kangaroo rats, desert tortoises, coyotes, and jackrabbits – most are nocturnal, choosing to sleep during the hot days.
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Basics
Location: Death Valley, California
Parking: You can find parking throughout the park – at visitor centers, trailheads, etc.
Bathrooms: Available at visitor centers, some attractions (like Badwater Basin), in the campgrounds
What to wear: Oooo…this park is challenging for what to pack. Since you are likely going to have your car, pack for all kinds of situations. Pack layers because on hot days, it’s dry enough that when the sun goes down you may be cool. I was in a tank top during the day and a winter coat at night when I visited in April. Wear supportive shoes. The terrain is challenging to walk on.
What to pack:
- Water! Water! Water! While you can buy water and some places allow you to fill water, I would pack in a lot of jugs when you come into the park.
- Bring snacks and meals, especially those items that will replenish electrolytes.
- Sun protection – hats, shirts, sunscreen, etc
- Wind protection
Pet regulations: Best to leave your best friend at home.