Saratoga Spring – Death Valley National Park
Short walk to an overlook of a marshy spring with unique wildlife and great views of Death Valley. Swimming is not allowed in the spring.
| Total Distance: 0.1 miles out & back | Elevation Gain: 33ft. (215ft. to 229ft.) |
| Difficulty: Easy | 0-5 Mile Difficulty: Easy |
| View Rating: 4.0 out of 5.0 stars | Author’s Rating: 3.0 out of 5.0 stars |
| Visitor Rating: (Click to rate) [Total: 0 Average: 0] | Visitor Difficulty Rating: (Click to rate) [Total: 0 Average: 0] |
| Pets: No | Horses: No |
| Best Seasons: October-May | Special Permits: None |
| Water Availability: No potable or reliable water (do not enter the springs area) | Overnight Options: None |
| Trailhead Amenities: None | Crowd Factor: Solitude |
| Trailhead Access: 1.5 (4×4 required when road is flooded – 2.0) | |
Uses:    | Trail Surface:   |
Features:      | Hazards:    |
Mile-by-Mile: Saratoga Spring
0.0 Saratoga Spring Trailhead (215ft.). Walk uphill on the defined path beyond the “Road Closed” sign. (35.6807667°, -116.4211000°)
300ft. Saratoga Spring Overlook (228ft.). Enjoy views down on the springs and up Death Valley toward the Panamint Mountains. Signs describe the local history and wildlife. Bring binoculars to watch birds and other animals on and around the springs. (35.6811333°, -116.4217500°)
History & More
Saratoga Spring was a major watering hole for the 20 Mule Team and early explorers and miners. A health spa was even built nearby, though I gather it was never especially profitable.
One of the biggest surprises for me was to see quite a few ducks and other water birds in the spring. Bring your field glasses!
It is illegal to enter or swim in the springs.
Download Route Map
Driving Directions
The route begins at the end of the Saratoga Spring Road.
Leave No Trace Principles are enforced
Drones and model aircrafts are prohibited
Camping is permitted only in designated sites or in areas open to dispersed backcountry camping
Click here for all park rules and regulations
12 Month Pass: $55/Death Valley Annual Pass (valid at Death Valley National Park). $80/America the Beautiful Annual Pass (valid at all national park and federal fee areas). $20/Annual Senior Pass (62 years or older US citizens; valid at all national park and federal fee areas). Free/4th Grade Pass (Valid Sept. 1-August 31 of the child’s 4th Grade school year). Free/Military Pass (valid for all active military personel and their dependents with a CAC Card or DD Form 1173).
Lifetime Pass: $80/Lifetime Senior Pass (62 years or older US citizens; valid at all national park and federal fee areas). Free/Access Pass (available to all US citizens with perminent disabilities). Free/Access for Veterans and Gold Star Families Pass (valid for all military and veterans with a CAC card, Veteran HJealth Identification Card, Veteran ID Card, or veteran’s designation on state-issued drivers license or identification card.)