Three tips for an adventure to Darwin Falls, Death Valley

When you think of Death Valley, chances are that you picture the arid desert this national park is famed for. Notoriously hot and barren, t...

When you think of Death Valley, chances are that you picture the arid desert this national park is famed for. Notoriously hot and barren, the idea of encountering a waterfall in this harsh landscape seems unlikely – but that’s just what Darwin Falls offers. Crystal-clear water cascades over sandy rocks before plummeting into the pool below, with the surrounding rock creating a protected area that is hidden from the full heat of the sun.

Fortunately for adventurous travelers, Darwin Falls is accessible to hikers, a trek that is around 2 miles long from the turnoff and graded as moderate. In this post, we share our tips for experiencing this magical location for yourself.

Plan your trip during the right season

Despite the respite that the area around Darwin Falls has to offer, you shouldn’t underestimate the heat of Death Valley. In summer months, the temperatures soar as early as 10am, making it dangerous and irresponsible to attempt a hike at this time. The best time to take this hike is in the fall or early spring when the temperatures are more manageable. Even so, you should exercise caution, especially if you have a pre-existing health condition.

Gear up appropriately

As with any hike, you’ll need to make sure you’re adequately prepared for the hike to Darwin Falls. Get fitted out with sturdy hiking shoes, which will make your footing steadier on uneven terrain, but will also reduce the chance of a twisted ankle or blistered toes. When it comes to clothing, lightweight layers are a good choice, allowing you to adapt to the weather conditions, but also ensuring you can protect your delicate skin from the sun’s rays. You can even purchase shirts that specifically have UPF (SPF) protection in the material, which can be a good choice if you’re particularly prone to sunburn.

A baseball cap can also be beneficial for protecting your head, but also for helping you see in the glare of the sun. Or, if you’re visiting in the late fall, winter, or early spring, you may also want to take a beanie, as mornings in Death Valley can feel chilly.

One thing you won’t need is a swimsuit – whilst it’s tempting to jump into the mesmerizing waters, the National Park Service specifically states that swimming is prohibited. Appreciate the beauty of this spot from dry land.

Know the route and terrain

The route down to Darwin Falls isn’t marked, so you’ll need to have a map and plan your approach before you go. However, there is an established path where other hikers have been. Getting to the trailhead to start can be tricky depending on your vehicle, so either make plans to leave it further away and hike in, or be prepared for a rough couple of miles.

It’s very important to respect the terrain and the park in general as you hike. Stick to the established path, and try to leave as little trace of your visit as possible. Remember, this is just a fun day trip for you, but Death Valley is a permanent home to a surprising amount of wildlife, so you don’t want to disturb their habitat.

Plan your next adventure

There you have it – three tips to make your trip to Darwin Falls memorable for all the right reasons. Don’t forget your camera!