Cognitive/Learning Disability

When visiting a place as extreme as Death Valley, knowing exactly what to expect can be the key to having the most fun out of your adventures!

Please check out some of our many, expanding resources ranging from a variety of social stories to a comprehensive park sensory guide. All of these resources are available online and at the front desk of the Furnace Creek Visitor Center and the Stovepipe Wells Ranger Station.
 
 

Social Stories

Social stories are tools for individuals with autism or other cognitive disabilities. These stories describe the park and what to expect during a visit. They are told to give familiarity to park resources and activities and reduce anxiety from visiting a new place.

Paper copies of these stories can also be requested at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center.

 

 

 

 

Sensory Guide

While visiting Death Valley, you might taste the salt on the salt flats, roll down the sand dunes, climb over large dry falls, and hear of birds and rushing water at the waterfall.

Check out, download or print-out a copy of our park's sensory guide. This guide will cover all things you might see, smell, taste, hear, feel, and climb while hiking and sightseeing throughout the valley.
 

 

Sensory Kits

Sensory kits are available at the front desk of the Furnace Creek Visitor Center for individuals who experience hypo and/or hyper-sensitivity amongst their 5 senses.

What's included?

  • Sensory Guide Summary for the Park
  • List of kit items
  • Backpack
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Alcohol wipes
  • Pair of polarized sunglasses
  • Noise canceling headphones
  • Cooling towel and squirt bottle
  • Death Valley coloring pages
  • Scented colored pencils
  • Jr. Ranger Book (in the children's version)
  • Push pop fidget bracelet
  • Monkey noodle
  • Wacky tracks
  • Weight lap pad
  • Communication cards
  • Portable whiteboard

Last updated: May 10, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

P.O. Box 579
Death Valley, CA 92328

Phone:

760 786-3200

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