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Avawatz Mountains Proposed Wilderness
 Size:
Approximately 83,880 acres
Managing agency: Bureau of Land Management,
California Desert District
Location: On southeastern border of Death Valley National Park, 10 miles northwest of Baker.
Description:
- Extensive bighorn sheep habitat with 9 natural springs.
- Still visited by members of Shoshone Nation for spiritual and cultural renewal.
- Challenging destination for rock climbers, cross-country hikers, and equestrians.
- Popular peak hike gives outstanding views of Death Valley National Park.
Rising to more than 6,100 feet above the Silurian Valley, the Avawatz Mountains form a commanding backdrop of colorful eroded slopes, rugged ridges, and steep, narrow canyons. Nine springs provide water for wildlife including bighorn sheep, coyotes, bobcats and roadrunners. Plants here are highly adapted to the extreme temperatures and droughts of the Mojave Desert, dominated by creosote bush, which can form 3,000-year-old clones—among the oldest living things on earth. California biologists have identified the Avawatz Mountains as an important link for regional habitat connectivity, enabling wildlife to move across a larger landscape.
Traditional members of the Shoshone Nation continue to visit the area for spiritual
and other cultural purposes, such as collecting plants and other materials for
crafts and medicines.
The area is a paradise for rock-climbers, cross-country hikers and equestrians willing to brave harsh conditions and carry plenty of water in exchange for solitude and an outstanding backcountry experience. Hikers and backpackers especially enjoy the route to Avawatz Peak. Views from the Avawatz Mountains are outstanding in all directions—especially north into Death Valley National Park.
For additional information, please contact:
Bryn Jones
California Wilderness Coalition
4065 Mission Inn Ave.
Riverside, CA 92501
(909) 781-1336
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Just three miles off of Interstate 80, 
