Great Escapes: Death Valley National Park 
Death Valley National Park, world renowned for its extremes, is home to the lowest, hottest, and driest place in North America while also sporting mountains over 11,000 feet that experience below-zero weather. To cope, the park’s plants and wildlife have developed incredible evolutionary adaptations. Seventy-two of the plants, mammals, fish, and snails found in the park’s ecosystems exist nowhere else in the world.
Spring is a wonderful time to visit. While this year’s wildflowers won’t rival the boisterous display of 2005, there is always much to see. Most front-country roads and vistas closed after the 2004 floods—such as Artist’s Drive and Dante’s View—are repaired and open again. Weather conditions vary greatly with elevation, so be prepared with layered clothing and lots of extra water. Check the park’s morning report before attempting backcountry travel. To get away from the crowds for a scenic but strenuous hike, try Fall Canyon near the Titus Canyon Mouth. Visit the park website at www.nps.gov/deva or call Park Headquarters at (760) 786-3200
