Located directly east of Death Valley National Park, Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge was named after the galleries of ash trees described in expedition notes from 1893 In 1952. Devil’s Hole was incorporated into Death Valley National Park in an effort to protect the endangered pupfish. This led the way to Ash Meadows becoming a wildlife refuge in 1984.

From the entrance it was a 10-minute drive to our first stop. The Crystal Reservoir. The 70 acres Crystal Reservoir is a dammed-up area that is perfect for bird watchers. It is also the only spot in Ashland Meadows where you can take a swim. Unfortunately, everything was a bit too cold on the day that we went.

The Point of Rocks Boardwalk at Ash Meadows crosses over the spring fed wetland containing the famous pupfish. The length of the boardwalk is half a mile round trip and is wheelchair accessible. We made our first stop at the emerald green, King’s Pond Educational signs throughout the boardwalk. At the end you can finish up with some bird watching. The point of rocks trail has convenient picnic tables and restrooms, great for a family field trip.

Address: 8757 Spring Meadows Rd, Amargosa Valley, NV 89020
Website: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/ash-meadows