Darwin Falls - Death Valley National Park
Death Valley National Park covers over 3 million acres of desert landscapes and designated wilderness, but this week we’re heading to a hidden oasis with a surprise waterfall. Join me as we hike to Darwin Falls.
Darwin Falls in Death Valley National Park
Scrambling up the rocks next to Darwin Falls
Location
Darwin Falls is located on the remote west side of Death Valley National Park near Panamint Springs Resort. From Hwy 190 you have to take the gravel/dirt Old Toll Rd for over two miles to the Darwin Falls Trailhead parking area. It’s important to check current weather/road conditions before your visit because this drive can be impassable after a recent rain. I have driven my Prius here once, but I feel much more comfortable driving my Chevy Silverado…so if you have a high clearance/four wheel drive vehicle I definitely recommend it on this rough road.
Near the Darwin Falls trailhead in Death Valley National Park
The trail to Darwin Falls in Death Valley National Park
Hike
From the trailhead parking area, the hike to Darwin Falls is only 2 miles round-trip. The trail starts off in the barren badlands environment. It’s nearly impossible to believe a waterfall could be hiding just a mile away as only a few shrubs are surviving the harsh desert conditions here. However half a mile into the rugged gravel path, the canyon walls begin to narrow and close in around you. Soon you’re surrounded by vegetation and trees, and Darwin Creek trickles beside you. The last quarter mile is the most challenging of the hike as you have to scramble up and down large boulders and across the stream to reach the base of the falls.
Darwin Creek along the Darwin Falls trail
Darwin Creek rapids along the trail to Darwin Falls
Waterfall
Darwin Falls was named for Dr. Darwin French, a local rancher, miner, and explorer. This waterfall is divided into an upper and lower section with a small grotto in between. The hike leads to the base of the lower falls and has wonderful views of the 20 foot drop. It is possible to climb up the rocks and scramble around for views of the upper falls, but please remember to adventure within your own skill and comfort level here. The path is steep and the wet rocks can be mossy and slick.
Srambling up the rocks towards the upper Darwin Falls
Lower Darwin Falls in Death Valley National Park
Know Before You Go
• Swimming/entering the water here is strictly prohibited as fresh water sources are scarce for the local wildlife. This water is also one of the few drinking sources for nearby Panamint Springs.
• Always bring plenty of water and sun protection. While the waterfall itself is shaded most of the trail, leading here is completely exposed and summer temperatures can make hiking in Death Valley very dangerous.
• Please remember the Leave No Trace Principles so this spot’s natural beauty can be enjoyed for years to come.
Top 10 Death Valley Spots
Lower Darwin Falls in Death Valley National Park
In Summary
Thanks so much for joining me this week in Death Valley National Park. For a virtual visit of Darwin Falls, see my Behind the Blog YouTube video at the top of this post. You can also download my free Death Valley Travel Guide with pinpoint map locations and driving directions to some of my favorite spots here…and don’t forget to check out my full Death Valley section for detailed blog posts on some of my other favorite Death Valley spots. Until next week I hope you find adventure and encouragement wherever you go.
Darwin Falls in Death Valley National Park
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About Me
I’m Dawn Marie, a travel and lifestyle blogger based out of Southern California. With in-depth articles, travel guides, and reviews on hotels & products, I seek to share my journeys to help you plan for your own. My adventures take me all over California, the western United States, and around the globe...and every Monday I post new content here, including a comprehensive blog post and YouTube video.
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Can you kayak in Death Valley? Yes! Currently the National Park Service is allowing park visitors to take kayaks and stand up paddle boards onto the historic Lake Manly, the ancient lake that has reappeared at Badwater Basin. Read this Flying Dawn Marie travel guide for all the info you need to plan your kayaking adventure to Death Valley National Park, a perfect road trip from Los Angeles.