Visit Wilderness

Nestling in the Argus Range, a thin and narrow north-south mountain chain, this Wilderness stretches for 28 miles along the west side of the Panamint Valley, just south and west of Death Valley National Park and just east of the China Lake Naval Weapons Center. Elevations here vary from about 2,800 feet on the east side to more than 7,500 feet on the west. The Argus Range is comprised of dry desert mountains with steep slopes and highly dissected canyons. Remains of old mining activity and a few prehistoric sites are scattered throughout the Wilderness. You may find several springs supporting a small population of desert bighorn sheep. Vegetation dominated by creosote scrub communities on the lower slopes, with occasional piñon-juniper communities at higher elevations.

Trails are not maintained here, but you should find some relatively easy hiking up several canyons that open on the east side.

Leave No Trace

How to follow the seven standard Leave No Trace principles differs in different parts of the country (desert vs. Rocky Mountains). Click on any of the principles listed below to learn more about how they apply in the Argus Range Wilderness.

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
4. Leave What You Find
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
6. Respect Wildlife
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

For more information on Leave No Trace, Visit the Leave No Trace, Inc. website.

Rules & Regulations

Contacts