News Release

Death Valley National Park Celebrates 25th Anniversary

Park Ranger Sarah Carter leads visitors on a sunrise hike at Zabriskie Point.

News Release Date: October 8, 2019

Contact: Hilary Clark, 760-786-3276

Contact: Abby Wines, 760-786-3221

DEATH VALLEY, CA – Death Valley National Park is hosting special programs and events in celebration of the park’s 25^th birthday October 26 –November 2. On November 2, the park will waive entrance fees.  

Death Valley was first protected as a national monument in 1933. On October 31, 1994, President Bill Clinton signed the California Desert Protection Act, which created Death Valley National Park, designated over 90% of the park as wilderness, and added 1.3 million acres to the park. The Act also redesignated Joshua Tree as a national park and established Mojave National Preserve.

Geologists, biologists, astronomers, and other specialists will share their knowledge of desert ecology, dark skies, and natural history from October 26 through November 2.

A ranger-led sunrise hike will meet at Zabriskie Point at 7:00 a.m. on October 27. Astronomy programs will be offered at Harmony Borax Works from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. on October 26 and 28.

Park entrance fees will be waived on Saturday, November 2. The public is invited to join Superintendent Mike Reynolds for a 5 kilometer fun run/walk at 8:00 a.m. at Furnace Creek Visitor Center. Wish the park happy birthday with cupcakes at noon in Furnace Creek Visitor Center. Neighboring organizations and partners will have exposition booths set up at the Visitor Center from 12:00-1:00 and 3:00-5:00. Former Death Valley superintendents will answer questions and speak about the California Desert Protection Act from 1:00-3:00 in the auditorium.


“This is one of the largest celebrations Death Valley National Park has hosted,” notes Superintendent Mike Reynolds. “We are fortunate to have a number of knowledgeable guest speakers who are coming to the park specifically for this series of events. It’s a unique opportunity for the public to learn about this incredible park.”

All programs are free and open to the public. Close-toed shoes are recommended for hikes, which are on uneven terrain. Bring sun protection and water for daytime programs, and a headlamp, warm clothing, and a chair for evening programs.