In the hot desert lands of Death Valley National Park lies Devil’s Cornfield, a plain dotted not with corn but with arrowweed.
Arrowweed is a rhizomatous evergreen shrub that grows in riparian zones in the lower Sonoran Desert. The plant is frequently found in the lower Colorado River valley of California, Nevada and Arizona, and as far east as Texas and into northern Mexico.
Riparian zones are lands that occur along the edges of rivers, streams, lakes, and other water bodies, several features the Death Valley usually lacks. The average rainfall in the area is less than two inches a year, an amount that typically wouldn’t support the growth of arrowweed. But Death Valley marks the end point of a several thousand square mile drainage system, meaning there’s a lot of water just below the surface.
Arrowweed’s deep roots can access the water table located underground at Devil’s Cornfield, allowing these shrubs to build a unique landscape in the desert.
As with any location in Death Valley, visiting Devil’s Cornfield means preparing for hot, arid conditions. Avoid hiking in the valley and at lower elevations when it’s hot, drink at least one gallon of water per day, eat well balanced meals, and listen to your body throughout your visit. Learn more on visiting Death Valley National Park safely below.
Death Valley National Park Safety:
Beat the Heat
Death Valley is the hottest place in the world! Summertime temperatures can be as high as 130oF (54oC) with nighttime temperatures of up to 90oF (32oC).
Be prepared for hot, arid conditions:
DO NOT hike in the valley/lower elevations when it is hot! Generally, the mountains are cooler in the summer and provide some refuge from the heat.
DRINK plenty of water, at least one gallon a day, to avoid dehydration. Eat well balanced meals too and keep your electrolytes in check! Water is available at Furnace Creek, Stovepipe Wells, and Panamint Springs.
LISTEN to your BODY – If you begin to feel dizzy, nauseous, or get a bad headache, stop all strenuous activity, remove yourself from the heat, and be sure to drink small amounts of water every few minutes.
- Heat Exhaustion – Signs and symptoms include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, headaches, cramps, and pale, cool, clammy skin.
- Heat Stroke – Signs and symptoms are like heat exhaustion, but also include changes in behavior (like confusion or disorientation.)
If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, seek help. If within cell phone service, call 911 or locate a park ranger!
FLASH FLOOD!
Flash floods occur when large amounts of water run swiftly through canyons and washes. Flash floods occur quickly, are unpredictable, and and often carry large debris, like rocks and branches. You can be severely injured by getting caught in a flash flood! DO NOT HIKE in canyonsduring an active rainstorm, or if there is a high chance of precipitation. If you are stuck in a high rain event or flood, try to find higher ground immediately!
No Need for Speed!
Most deaths in Death Valley are caused by single vehicle rollover accidents on the park’s long, winding roads. Follow all posted speed limits, shift to low gear on steep downhill grades, and always your wear seatbelt!
