Ash Meadows: Tiny fish, big views, and boardwalks

Let’s explore one of the desert’s most unexpected gems, and a lesser-known corner of the Death Valley ecosystem that few travelers take the time to visit. Tucked away off the beaten path is Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, and it feels like a secret garden in the middle of the Mojave.

This rare oasis is fed by over 30 seeps and springs, with water so clear you’ll swear it’s imported from a tropical island! The boardwalks wind through the lush wetlands and over surreal blue pools, offering a close-up view of one of the world’s smallest and rarest fish, the endangered Ash Meadows pupfish. These tiny, shimmering survivors have adapted to one of the harshest environments on Earth.

But the pupfish are just the beginning. Expect dramatic desert backdrops, wind-carved vegetation, birdlife in motion, and constantly shifting light that turns this remote refuge into a dynamic outdoor studio.

MEETUP INFO:
We will meet at 3pm in the parking lot of the Ash Meadows Visitor Center.

This is around a 2 hour drive from Las Vegas, so please plan accordingly to arrive on time. Some portions of the drive are on dirt roads, but these are graded and suitable for most vehicles.

MEETUP FEES:
There is no fee to visit Ash Meadows.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY:
Be prepared to walk and carry your gear 1-2 miles on level trails or boardwalks.

Note that it may be quite hot, so bring plenty of water!

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
If your plans change and you are unable to attend, please be courteous and cancel your RSVP so that someone else can attend.

Be sure to have plenty of gas in your vehicle as gas stations are few and far in-between once you leave Pahrump!

DESERT PHOTO EXPLORERS LIABILITY DISCLAIMER AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK:
By submitting your RSVP and participating in any Desert Photo Explorers event, you acknowledge and agree to the following:

1. Assumption of Risk: You understand and voluntarily accept that outdoor activities such as hiking, off-roading, and photography carry inherent risks, including but not limited to injury, property damage, or other unforeseen harm. You agree to assume full responsibility for your participation and the participation of your guest(s).
2. Release of Liability: To the fullest extent permitted by law, you release and discharge the Organizer(s), Event Host(s), and any affiliated individuals or entities from any and all liability for injury, damage, loss, or claims arising from your participation in any event, including those caused by negligence.
3. Personal Responsibility: You confirm that you have reviewed all event instructions, understand the requirements, and agree to participate at your own risk. You are solely responsible for assessing your physical fitness, skills, and preparedness to participate in any event.
4. Guest Responsibility: If you bring guest(s), you agree to communicate these terms to them and accept responsibility for their compliance.

By submitting your RSVP, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to this liability disclaimer and assumption of risk. You further agree that your RSVP submission constitutes your electronic signature.