Palm Spring
Palm Spring, locally known as Wizard Pool, flows at 120 degrees Fahrenheit deep within Death Valley National Park, creating a 47-degree thermal anomaly in North America's most extreme desert environment. The backcountry location ensures pristine wilderness experience.
The spring sits at 1,499 feet elevation in Death Valley's remote interior where sparse desert scrub and salt flats dominate the landscape. The 6.5-mile approach from the nearest road crosses one of the continent's most hostile environments where temperatures regularly exceed 120 degrees in summer.
Palm Spring's local name Wizard Pool reflects its magical appearance amid Death Valley's otherworldly landscape. Formation relates to deep geothermal systems beneath the Death Valley basin, part of the same processes creating the region's mineral springs and geothermal features.
Accessing Wizard Pool requires substantial backcountry experience and preparation for extreme desert conditions. Only 7 inches of annual precipitation means reliable water sources are critical. Visit during late autumn through early spring to avoid dangerous summer heat exceeding 130 degrees.
Is Palm Spring worth visiting?
Best for
- Hot spring soaking
- Backpacking adventures
Not ideal for
- Day trips with young children