School me on Death Valley in January

[paul]

Might get some time off in January, and thinking desert wanderings. I am wondering mostly about anyone's experience of what roads in DVNP are likely to be passable for my minivan at that time of year. Thanks in advance for your help/advice.

[bobby49]

Most of the park paved roads are good. However, January is a time of big storms and floods. So, rather than a minivan, have you considered a row boat?

[balzaccom]

It may or may not rain. If it does, bobby's right...it can be scary. If not, it can be cold...like freezing...or beautiful.

If you want things to do, check out Steve Hall's site at Panamint City.com....easily the best website for DV.

[BillyBobBurro]

Getting into or out of Saline Valley might not be possible since the two passes to the valley can get snow.

[bobby49]

I realize that everybody's calendar constraints are different. However, in my opinion, the best time to visit Death Valley NP would be the middle of March. By then, there are wildflowers in different parts of the park that aren't hard to get to. In mid-March, the weather can be warm or hot, but it is generally less than deadly hot.

[Flamingo]

@paul I'm a big fan of Death Valley in January! On my previous winter trips to DV, the thing that most surprised me was the strong and persistent wind. Sometimes it's been impossible to pitch a tent, and there's very few places with vegetation for shelter. While camped at Eureka Dunes in January 2019, the afternoon wind snapped my tent poles.

[paul]

Folks have mentioned cold - I'm expecting that, would bring my full range of layering options up to and including the snow camping stuff. And Rain - which, if in the forecast, could put me off since it would keep me firmly on the pavement, driving wise. And wind - that I was slightly aware of, but will keep in mind more centrally. Since I'm not likely to do any backpacking, just dayhikes, I'd be sleeping in my van so I don't have to worry about tent failures. But sounds like having some non-cook food options might be a good idea, in case it's howling such that I don't want to set up a stove outside.

[neil d]

I would definitely go in January, just be prepared for short days and long nights. You are rather limited if you don't have at least some vehicle clearance, IMO, because the dispersed camping is just so spectacular.

(Side rant: the established camping in DV sucks beyond belief. Almost a crime they even charge for it. Maybe you wouldn't mind sleeping in a vehicle, but pitching a tent on asphalt is just wrong. Although I hear Mesquite Springs is the best of the bunch).

Regarding wind, it is true that it often rips through the valley and over the peaks various times of year. But you can often escape it by driving up into a canyon.

[bobby49]

Although I hear Mesquite Springs is the best of the bunch).

1. It is off the beaten track.
2. If you are prepared, there is a nice hike to some nearby petroglyphs. Bring a lunch.