History & Culture

The cultural history of Death Valley
People

The Timbisha, miners, Death Valley Scotty, and little known histories.

An old wooden mining structure in a desert landscape.
Places

A number of places are important to the history and culture of this area.

A train of mules, in pairs, leading a wooden wagon through a desert landscape.
Stories

The stories of Death Valley's past are rich and fascinating. Read more here!

 
 
A ranger in 1935 stands next to a sign that reads Badwater 279 feet below sea level A ranger in 1935 stands next to a sign that reads Badwater 279 feet below sea level

Left image
Ranger John Bergen stands at Badwater in 1935
Credit: NPS/George A. Grant

Right image
Badwater today.
Credit: NPS/Alexandra Rothermel

Last updated: November 17, 2021

Park footer

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

P.O. Box 579
Death Valley, CA 92328

Phone:

760 786-3200

Contact Us