Death Valley in the 1930s

Road Workers & Guidebook Writers put the National Monument on the Map
by Cheri Rae

Warnings

Speed limit, 45 miles per hour. Advisable to carry drinking and radiator water. Service stations far apart in many sections. Keep oil and gas checked, and carry additional supplies if itinerary does not include service stations.

Do not travel closed roads without obtaining full information from rangers or from National Park Service Headquarters.

Special Summer Warnings

Do  not attempt to walk in the Valley during the summer. Carry abundant water for passengers and car. Register at the ranger stations at entrances and travel only on roads kept open by the National Park Service, as these are patrolled daily. In case of breakdown, sit quietly in the car and wait until a ranger passes, or until night lessens the heat, when it will be safer to walk for help if near Furnace Creek Camp, Stove Pipe Wells Hotel, or the ranger stations on Emigrant Wash and in Wildrose Canyon. If the distance to these is too great, it is better to wait until the next day for a ranger patrol or other traveler.

Clothing

Both cool and warm clothing advisable in spring and fall; warm clothing for winter; stout shoes for walking.

Equipment

Field glasses desirable. Campers must bring fuel supply; no wood available. Warm bedding needed in winter.

Medical Service

Doctor at Furnace Creek Inn 2 days weekly. Hospitals at Lone Pine and Death Valley Junction. In emergency consult National Park Service Headquarters.

Special Regulations

Disturbance, destruction, defilement, or injury of any ruins, relics, buildings, signs, or other property is prohibited.

Camps, made at designated localities, must be kept clean. Place garbage and tin cans in receptacles provided for that purpose. Use gasoline or kerosene camp stoves, or your own wood.