Hiker departing Darwin Falls (view E) |
Overview
Darwin Falls Trail is a pleasant, fairly easy trail that starts out in a desert wash, runs up through a rocky canyon with high cliffs on both sides, and ends at a perennial waterfall. Along the way, hikers are introduced to desert wash vegetation, desert cliffside vegetation, and desert oasis riparian vegetation. In the narrow upper canyon, hikers must navigate wet rocks, stream crossings, sand-covered smooth rocks, perhaps a little bit of easy scrambling, and perhaps wet feet. During spring and early summer, the riparian corridor provides habitat for lots of birds. Western toads and various species of lizards are also common in the riparian area.
Darwin Creek provides drinking water to Panamint Springs Resort. Therefore, swimming and dogs are prohibited on this trail. These rules are intended to safeguard the quality of the water provided to downstream humans.
Presented here are photos of the return. For a detailed description of the route, including directions, maps, GPS coordinates, and photos, see Darwin Falls Trail. |