Department Spring Fieldtrip - Death Valley

Experience the geologic wonders of Death Valley - one of the most dramatic geological landscapes on earth! This active rift basin has all the classic components; active fault scarps and fault-block mountains, alluvial fans building out, internal drainage and extensive salt flats, recent volcanic activity, and modern dune fields. This years spring trip will be a four day adventure.

Why Death Valley?

Death Valley forms part of the Basin and Range Province – a region stretched to the breaking point by tectonic forces.
It is similar to other basins of the region, but is unique because it is the lowest, hottest, driest location in the western hemisphere.

Death Valley is an active rift basin with all the classic components; active fault scarps and fault-block mountains, alluvial fans building out, internal drainage and extensive salt flats, volcanic activity, and modern dune fields.

The awesome splendor of Zabriskie Point

Death Valley salt pan – the remains of a Pleistocene lake that was once filled the valley over 600 feet deep!


Devil’s Golf Course – the inhospitable floor of Death Valley salt pan!

LEARN ABOUT THE HERITAGE
The Borax twenty mule team is one of the most memorable icons of the American West, and of the pioneers who transformed its mineral wealth into a foundation of modern industry throughout the world.
The saga of the twenty mule team began more than a century ago in the arid deserts of California's Death Valley.

Although rainfall is scarce, water is the creative force that builds Death Valley's alluvial fans.

Mesquite Dunes
SARATOGA SPRNGS: It's hard to believe that these lush ponds are found within the parched boundaries of Death Valley National Park.

This rare desert wetland supports a rich community of plants and animals. Some like the DESERT PUPFISH, are found nowhere else in the world.