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Death Valley - Golden Canyon and Red Cathedral


Highlights:

Interpretive trail, interesting geology, beautiful scenery
Near:Death Valley, CA
Scenery:
Distance:3 miles round trip
Elevation Gain:525 ft
Hike Time:1.5 hours
Difficulty:Easy
Trail Condition:Well maintained trail
HikeType:Out and Back



Summary: This is an easy worthwhile hike. You will not be disappointed. You walk through a canyon with high walls at least 50 feet overhead. It is obvious how water has influenced this arid landscape. When it comes here, there is a lot of it, and it is usually moving very rapidly. Multiply that by several million years and you'll easily see how this canyon was formed.

This is an interpretive trail with many stops that the entire family can enjoy, provided you don't bring them here in the summer.

When it is hot, hiking in Death Valley is not only an exercise in stupidity, but may also teach you a lesson in mortality. Don't even attempt it!

You can turn this hike into a loop, which sadly time did not allow for, but we did get to explore the cliffs and get a twilight view of Red Cathedral. What a beautiful spot!

Trailhead: From the Furnace Creek Visitor Center drive South on Highway 190 for about 2 miles, and take the right turn onto the 178 South. The sign will say to Badwater. Drive for another 2 miles to the Golden Canyon parking area on your left - the east side of the road. Park, pick up a trail guide and set out on your way.

At the kiosk you can check out the interesting explanation of the geology and natural history.

Close by is the Artist's Drive, make sure to take this one-way not to be missed course after your hike. (Lat:36.42085 Lon:-116.84658)

Trail Guides for Death Valley - Golden Canyon and Red Cathedral:
Best Easy Day Hikes - Death Valley
by Bill Cunnigham and Polly Burke (Falcon)

California Hiking
by Tom Sinestra and Ann Marie Brown (Avalon Travel)

Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter,
User Groups: Hikers,
Ranger Contact: Death Valley National Park (760)786-2331
Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Allen Riedel, who has posted  123 other hikes on this site. To visit this reporters web site, click here.
Trail Reviews  Submit your own review
Reviewed by danamite on 12/11/2009
Could spend a whole afternoon exploring on foot

Reviewed by jr on 7/13/2003
tnks


Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site.
Keys: California Hiking, California Trails, California Hikes, Inyo County Hiking, Inyo County Trails, Inyo County Hikes

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