Darwin Falls Wilderness

Darwin Falls Wilderness is a federally protected area in the Mojave Desert, located west of Death Valley National Park just outside Panamint Springs. It ecompasses 8,189-acres, and is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). 

The area includes a portion of the Darwin Plateau and Darwin Canyon. A stark, rugged landscape with volcanic rocks, creosote bush, and Joshua Tree Woodlands dominates the northern region. 

In the southern region you’ll find Darwin Canyon with its lush vegetation including willows and cottonwood trees. Year-round water flows into the canyon from Darwin Falls (despite being the area's namesake, Darwin Falls is not technically part of the Wilderness, but rather it lies within the national park boundary).

ELEVATION RANGE: 3,129’-5,699’

Lowest Point: 3,129 feet (located within Darwin Canyon)

Highest Point:  5,699 feet (located in the Darwin Hills)

ACCESSIBILITY

Highway 190 provides access to this Wilderness area (and the neighboring national park) and nearby trails including the popular Darwin Falls.

RULES AND REGULATIONS 

“Motorized equipment and equipment used for mechanical transport are generally prohibited on all federal lands designated as wilderness. This includes the use of motor vehicles (including OHVs), motorboats, motorized equipment, bicycles, hang gliders, wagons, carts, portage wheels, and the landing of aircraft including helicopters, unless provided for in specific legislation. In a few areas some exceptions allowing the use of motorized equipment or mechanical transport are described in the special regulations in effect for a specific area. Contact the agency for more information about regulations.” - BLM

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

BLM - Darwin Falls Wilderness