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EXTREME SUMMER HEAT
Expect high temperatures of 100 to 120 degrees F on your summer visit to Death Valley. Heat related illness is a real possibility. Drink plenty of water and carry extra. Avoid activity in the heat. Travel prepared to survive. Watch for signs of trouble. More »
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Furnace Creek Visitor Center hours to change for Summer 2013
To better serve summer visitors, the Furnace Creek Visitor Center will be open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm beginning June 16 through October 7, 2013.
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Furnace Creek Campground Temporary Closure
Furnace Creek Campground will be CLOSED for construction starting April 16, 2013. Texas Springs Campground will remain open for summer camping in the Furnace Creek Area. More »
Cacti / Desert Succulents
Pineapple Cactus, Joshua Tree and Cholla
The Mojave Desert is rich with cacti and succulent species, yet in Death Valley National Park they are scarce due to the extremes of heat, dryness and soil salinity. Even so, cactus grow from an elevation of 400 feet above sea level to the summits of the surrounding mountains. The cactus species most commonly seen are cottontop barrel, silver cholla, and beavertail cactus. Engelmann hedgehog cactus are locally abundant above 3000 feet elevation. Grizzly bear pricklypear is the most common species in the pinyon-juniper woodlands. Joshua trees--the indicator species of the Mojave Desert--are found in only a few locations here. The Lee Flat area contains the finest stand in the park. In contrast to other succulent species, pickleweed is very salt-tolerant and can be found in marshy areas below sea level. Barrel Cactus
Hedgehog Cactus
Pincushion Cactus
Pricklypear Cactus
Cholla Cactus
Yuccas
Other Succulents
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Did You Know?
Death Valley is the hottest place on Earth. In July 1913, five consecutive days of 129°F or above were recorded in Death Valley. On July 10, 1913 a reading of 134 degrees Fahrenheit was taken, the world record hottest air temperature. More...