In the northern part of the valley is Ubehebe Crater, a small volcano on the west side fault. Flows of lava issue from the faults in the southern part of Death Valley. During glacial times, the climate was moister, and a large lake occupied Death Valley. The valley's geological attractions and warm winter sunshine have made it a popular winter-resort area. Plants include the creosote bush, desert holly, and mesquite.
Wildlife includes bobcats, coyotes, foxes, reptiles, and squirrels.
Borax deposits were discovered in 1873. Actual mining began in the early 1880's, and famous 20-mule teams hauled the borax out of the valley. Prospectors also discovered copper, gold, lead, and silver in nearby mountains. Mining towns sprang up, with such colorful names as Bullfrog, Greenwater, Rhyolite, and Skidoo. The towns died when the ores were exhausted.