Darwin Falls Trail – Death Valley
Darwin Falls Trail is a moderate 7-mile out-and-back route in the remote Panamint Valley region of Death Valley National Park.
This unmarked trail leads hikers through a rugged desert wash and into a lush, unexpected oasis fed by a year-round waterfall.
The falls, named after 19th-century Army physician Erasmus Darwin French, cascade 18 feet into a serene pool, surrounded by ferns, cattails, and cottonwoods—offering a rare glimpse of vibrant life in one of the driest places in North America.
While the journey is mostly flat, the terrain becomes rocky and challenging as the canyon narrows. Be prepared for stream crossings and dense vegetation as you approach the falls. Hiking during the cooler months is strongly recommended, and access may require a high-clearance vehicle.
Trail Details
| Trail Type | Out-and-Back |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Length | 7 miles (11.3 km) |
| Time | 2-5 hours |
| Elevation Gain | 450 ft (137 m) |
| Trailhead Coordinates | 36.327635, -117.514339 |
| Location | Darwin Falls Road off CA-190 |
| Season | Best in cooler months, avoid summer |
| Information Number | (760) 786-3200 |
Getting to Darwin Falls Trailhead
The Darwin Falls trailhead is located off Darwin Falls Road, approximately 2.5 miles west of Panamint Springs Resort on CA-190. Due to severe flooding in 2023, Darwin Falls Road is no longer drivable, and hikers must park on the shoulder of CA-190 and walk up the wash to the trailhead.
If traveling from Las Vegas, take US-95 south to NV-373, then merge onto CA-190 westbound. Panamint Springs is approximately 20 miles past the Stovepipe Wells Village area. From Los Angeles, take I-15 north to CA-395, then head east on CA-190.
Always check with park rangers for current road and trail conditions before heading out, as access roads can be washed out or impassable during storms.
The Trail
Starting from the wash, the trail is an unmarked route that leads through an arid desert landscape typical of Death Valley. Initially, hikers follow a dry gravel wash with sparse vegetation. As the canyon narrows, the environment transforms dramatically. Creosote bushes give way to a dense corridor of greenery, including cottonwoods and willows, signaling the approach of the spring-fed stream.
The final stretch makes the path more challenging, requiring careful navigation over large, slick rocks and shallow stream crossings. The sound of flowing water intensifies as you near the 18-foot Darwin Falls, where the trail concludes at a tranquil pool surrounded by ferns and cattails.
This oasis is a fragile ecosystem and the drinking water source for nearby Panamint Springs Resort. Swimming is prohibited to protect its delicate balance. The hike back retraces the same route.
Nearby Camping
While there is no camping at the trailhead, the nearby Panamint Springs Resort offers a campground with basic amenities, including potable water and restrooms.
For a more rugged experience, dispersed camping is allowed in designated areas throughout Death Valley National Park. Check with park rangers for regulations and guidelines.
The Darwin Plateau Wilderness, managed by the Bureau of Land Management, also offers primitive camping opportunities. This wilderness area features Joshua tree woodlands, volcanic rock formations, and a diverse array of desert wildlife, including prairie falcons and bighorn sheep.
