Death Valley Blooms in February

February brings the first signs of springtime to California's hottest and driest region; as this month marks the traditional start of the wildflower blooming season in Death Valley National Park. From mid February to mid April the desert bursts forth with beauty and offers a welcome respite from old man winter. In February, early birds can catch a glimpse of this spectacular springtime flower show, on the valley floor and the alluvial fans of Death Valley.

The dominant February bloomers are desert star, blazing star, desert gold, mimulus, encelia, poppies, verbena, evening primrose, and phacelia. You'll also find a variety of cacti in bloom above the valley floor. Experts recommend Highway 190 near the Furnace Creek Inn, as the best wildflower viewing area in the valley.

Make sure and also stop by the Furnace Creek Visitor Center, located about 12 miles from the park's eastern entrance. The Visitor Center features interpretive exhibits, an introductory slide program, a bookstore and an information center. The entire facility is barrier-free with accessible parking, a level entry, and accessible restrooms.

Of course, timing is everything when you're talking about wildflowers. Take note that February is the "traditional" start of the blooming season. Obviously environmental factors play a big role in this equation, so some flexibility is required in order to catch those first February blooms. Best bet is to monitor the local weather. Although Death Valley only receives a small amount of rainfall each year, a January or February shower followed by a few days of warm temperatures can produce an abundance of blooms, almost overnight. Keep an eye on mother nature, and then hit road when the conditions are right!

And don't forget to ask about your free Golden Access Passport when you visit Death Valley. This lifetime pass is good for free admission to all national parks, monuments, historic sites, recreation areas and wildlife refuges. The Golden Access Passport is available free to any US resident with a permanent disability, and it's available at all national park entrances.

Death Valley National Park is located is southern California, approximately 160 miles from Las Vegas, Nevada. Check out the Winter 2002 issue of Emerging Horizons for access information on tourist sites and lodging in Death Valley National Park.