Death Valley Natural History Association January e-Newsletter
DVNHA Updates
Hike Death Valley’s Hidden Gems
Looking for something to do this holiday weekend? There are still a few spaces available on “Hike Death Valley’s Hidden Gems.” Treat yourself to one, two, or three days of adventure and comradery.
Death Valley NP Updates
Firefighters Respond to Trailer Fire on CA-190
On December 29, 2024, National Park Service and Beatty firefighters extinguished a tractor-trailer fire in Death Valley National Park. The fire began when the truck’s brakes overheated during a descent of nearly 5,000 vertical feet from Towne Pass on CA-190. Superintendent Mike Reynolds stated that it was the eighth vehicle fire in the park this year, six of which were caused by overheated brakes. He reminded heavy vehicle drivers to downshift on steep grades and to pull over so brakes can cool. The driver was cited for operating with a suspended license. Commercial trucks are not advised on CA-190 due to steep grades, and they are prohibited on other roads within the park.
Leaning Towers Straightened in Saline Valley
Preservation specialists from the National Park Service are stabilizing three historic wooden towers in Saline Valley, located in Death Valley National Park. Additional work is planned for Tower Number One, which toppled in April 2024. This project is funded by the Inflation Reduction Act and focuses on the Saline Valley Salt Tram, built in 1911 by the Saline Valley Salt Company and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In late December, specialists from the National Park Service Historic Preservation Training Center used ropes, winches, and supports to carefully pull two leaning towers upright before bracing them. A third tower was disassembled and removed from the site for more extensive repairs.
Emigrant Canyon Road Closed
Emigrant Canyon Road is closed as of 1/6/25 for major repairs, preventing road access to Wildrose until early March. The road sustained heavy damage in August 2023 when the remnants of Hurricane Hilary caused drop-offs up to six feet deep in some areas. An initial round of temporary fixes allowed Emigrant Canyon Road to reopen in spring 2024, but additional reinforcement is necessary. These repairs are funded by the Federal Highway Administration Emergency Relief for Federally Owned Roads program and the National Park Service’s Disaster Supplemental funding.
Ash Meadows NWR Updates
Experience Ash Meadows NWR
Discover Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, a globally significant biodiversity hot spot in southern Nevada, just one hour from Death Valley NP. Stroll boardwalks through desert landscapes and crystal springs, keeping an eye out for bighorn sheep, Amargosa pupfish, and other hidden aquatic wonders. Learn about the land’s rich cultural history and how tribal ecological knowledge guides conservation efforts. Marvel at ongoing habitat restoration work, which ensures this special place will thrive for generations to come. Pack extra water, bring your camera, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure where nature and culture meet!
Product of the Month
Step into America’s most extreme desert landscape with our new Death Valley Socks! Inspired by the rugged beauty of Death Valley National Park, each pair features a vivid desert vista and the park’s name proudly woven in. Perfect for explorers, road-trippers, or anyone who loves unique gear—wear your wanderlust on your feet and bring a piece of the desert with you wherever you roam.
Death Valley Natural History Association | dvnha.org
Education ● Preservation ●
Mission
Preserving and interpreting the natural and cultural resources of the Death Valley region in cooperation with our government partners:
Death Valley National Park and Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge
Discover more from Eastern Sierra Now | Local News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
