The Death Valley superbloom is a stupendous natural phenomenon, which occurs only once in about ten years after substantial rainfall in fall and winter. In spring, the desert becomes alive with thousands of wildflowers, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors. The blooming season lasts from mid-February through June or mid-July, reaching its zenith in March and April. The Death Valley National Park is the lowest, driest, and hottest place in the United States, which makes the super bloom so unique. In 1913, the temperature of 134°F (57°C) recorded here hit an unsurpassed world record.
Death Valley wildflowers
During the Death Valley superbloom, the breathtaking desert landscape is painted with yellow, pink, and purple flowers. You can encounter sunflowers, phacelia, desert gold, gravel ghost, Bigelow monkeyflower, desert thorn, desert sage, poppies, and other wildflowers that manage to survive in such a harsh climate. The two last times when the desert saw the ultimate explosion of petals were in 2005 and 2016.
When do flowers bloom in Death Valley?
Even in the years which are not blessed with the superbloom, you will still see some spring flowers dusting the desert. The wildflower season in Death Valley National Park is from mid-February onward, and well through mid-July. Between late February and early April, you can spot flowers on lower elevations, including Badwater Road, Green Valley Road, Death Valley Road, and Titus Canyon Road. From early April to early May, flowers make their debut on higher elevations: check out Jubilee Pass, Zabriskie Point, Furnace Creek, and Daylight Pass. In May and early June (sometimes until mid-July), there is a good chance to spot the flowers when trekking the Panamint Range area.
Things to do in Death Valley
Spring is a nice season to enjoy Death Valley not only for the wildflower season, but also for the comfortable weather. Use this favorable condition to pack your trip with other fun activities. Check out Saline Valley Hot Springs, discover historical Wildrose Charcoal Kilns, or reveal the secrets of Eureka Dunes. The national park is also home to a number of otherwordly landscapes worth seeing. Some of the most bizarre places include Devil’s Golf Course, Badwater Basin, and Zabriskie Point.
Where to stay in Death Valley National Park
When visiting the hottest place on earth, having an air-conditioned shelter for rest is essential. The Death Valley super bloom map shows multiple accommodations in close proximity. If you prefer camping, Furnace Creek Campground and Stovepipe Wells Campground are among the most popular picks.
Practical info
When is the Death Valley Super Bloom season?
The Super Bloom season in Death Valley occurs once in a decade, usually after significant rainfall during fall and winter months. From mid-February to mid-July, visitors can witness a vast blooming of wildflowers that peak in March and April. Past incidents occurred in 2005 and 2016. Tourists interested in experiencing the natural marvel should check the Death Valley National Park website for updates before planning their trip. Show more
Which areas in Death Valley showcase wildflowers?
Death Valley is renowned for its Super Bloom, a rare event that occurs once in a decade. Typically, from February through April, adventurous visitors can see colorful wildflowers painting the desert landscape, including phacelia, sunflowers, gravel ghost, Bigelow monkeyflower, desert thorn, poppies, and desert sage. Checkout roads at lower elevations like Badwater, Green Valley, Death Valley, and Titus Canyon Road for the best wildflower sightings. These flowers thrive in the harsh desert climate, and their beauty makes the trip truly awe-inspiring. Show more
What activities can visitors engage in during the Super Bloom season at Death Valley?
Apart from observing the unique ecosystem during the Super Bloom period, visitors can engage in many activities to make their trip memorable. History enthusiasts can take time and explore Wildrose Charcoal Kilns discovery site, or relax in Saline Valley Hot Springs. Adventure seekers can go for hiking in the stark mountains of Panamint Range. The park has several ghost towns that nature has reclaimed over time and offer an experience of the Wild West. Devil’s Golf Course, Badwater Basin, and Zabriskie Point are popular scenic attractions that are worth the trip. Show more
What is the best time to visit apart from the Super Bloom season?
The Death Valley National Park is an attractive place that offers ample opportunities for exploration outside the Super Bloom season, making it ideal for tourists in mid-October to mid-May. The winter season is especially beautiful with snow-capped mountains. Moreover, visitors are treated to spectacular views of clear night skies, making the park perfect for stargazing. The fall season offers pleasant temperatures that are warm enough to explore the park's many attractions without fear of intense heat from the summer months. Show more
What are the best accommodation options during the Super Bloom period?
The Death Valley Super Bloom occurs in one of the world's hottest regions, making it necessary to find comfortable air-conditioned accommodations close to the park. Tourists have several options to choose from, including Furnace Creek Inn, The Ranch at Death Valley, and Stovepipe Wells. Furnace Creek Campground and Stovepipe Wells Campground are perfect for those who prefer to camp in their own tents or RVs. Booking well in advance is prudent as these places get busy during the Super Bloom season. Show more
