Here, you can tour the visitor center, view an introductory video, and get your refuge permit. Staff members and volunteers will assist you in preparing for your trip. Closed on holidays. At the visitor center, you can also sign the required military holdharmless agreement. The greatest obstacles to your safety include possible encounters with old mine shafts, unexploded military ordnance, and a rugged, unforgiving landscape where summer temperatures routinely range above 105 degrees F during the day and remain above 90 degrees F at night.
Water is scarce everywhere out here, even for the wildlife.
Hikers will find no maintained trails. You must bring your own water, at least 1 to 1 gallon per person per day on cool days of 100 degrees or lower. Hiking may be hazardous to your health, but you'll find exemplary desert backpacking here. Bring a compass. Best time to visit is the winter months, especially following a wet year, by desert standards, when the desert wildflowers are in bloom.