GPS Coordinates: 36.2838, -116.76734 (36°17’01.7″N 116°46’02.4″W)
This is one of the many easily accessible canyon trails in Death Valley. A decently maintained dirt road leads to the trail parking lot. From the parking lot, it’s just a two-mile round trip around the mostly flat but very rocky trail.
At about a mile into the canyon, you will see the 50 foot tall Natural bridge spanning the canyon, which was formed over the years. Definitely, this is the main attraction but the canyon has more to offer. The trail continues further for a short distance and abruptly ends at a 20-foot dry waterfall. If you have made it to the natural bridge, be sure to venture further to see the dry waterfall as well.
Best time to visit / Photograph
Pretty much any time during the day. If you wish to get away from the hot sun and not get cooked up in the car, you can venture into the canyon. At certain times of the year, when the sun is at a lower angle, you will get a nice glow in the canyon walls from the reflected light. If you’re lucky you will observe this phenomenon. Be sure to take plenty of water with you and take it slow as the loose rocks beneath your feet can slip and slide.
Recommended Camera Gear
- Digital Camera with Ultra wide or Normal to Mid-Range Zoom Lens
- Cable shutter release or Remote Shutter Release
- Neutral Density filters and polarizers
- Steady Tripod
- High powered flashlight for light painting and regular night time use
Other Recommendations
- Layered clothing to adapt to the changing weather or pack a sweater or windbreaker
- Carry plenty of water and snacks to keep yourself full and hydrated
- Wear comfortable shoes
- Head lamps and portable battery packs to keep your electronics charged
- Ball cap to protect your head from the heat
How to get there
From Furnace Creek, drive roughly about 13 miles south on Badwater Road and turn east (left) on to a dirt road toward Natural Bridge Canyon. It is 1.5 miles from Badwater Road to the trailhead parking area.
Place to Stay
There are plenty of campsites in and around Furnace Creek all available in a first come first serve basis. You can book your campsite at the Visitors Center or use the Campsite Kiosk. You have Furnace Creek Campground, Texas Springs Campground and Sunset Campground with decent facilities.
Pictorial Highlights from this place…
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