![]() NPS - Dan Kish Time: 2.5 hours round trip Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult Elevation Gain: 600 ft (183m) Location: The short unpaved Desolation Canyon Road is located 3.7 miles (6km) south of CA-190 on Badwater Road. Typically passable to sedans. Parking: Open gravel parking area large enough for buses and RV's. Closest Restroom: No restroom at site. Golden Canyon parking lot 1.7 miles (2.7km) north has a vault toilet in the parking lot. GPS Data: GPS data for the unmarked route is for supplemental purposes only. Take a map and compass when exploring the trail-less wilderness. ![]() NPS - Dan Kish Route DescriptionFrom the parking area there are two obvious canyon drainages. Avoid the small canyon to the south; instead begin hiking east toward the Black Mountains. You are entering designated wilderness.![]() NPS - Dan Kish ![]() NPS - Dan kish Venturing gradually uphill through the corridor of the main canyon, many interesting but short side canyons offer opportunities for exploration. The maze of canyons provides hours of possibilities for adventure, but may also become confusing. Hint: This canyon has been shaped by flowing water, generally downhill is the way back to safety. ![]() NPS - Dan Kish ![]() NPS - Dan Kish Be sure to keep right at the next two canyon intersections before following the gradual route up to the ridgeline for the expansive view of Death Valley over 600ft (183m) below. Artist’s Drive is the paved road below you. Return via the same route. Rock Rainbow: Shades of color are due to a mix of minerals, mostly forms of iron.
Common Flora:
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Last updated: January 13, 2018