There’s A Waterfall Hiding In This Southern California Desert And It’s Beyond Spectacular

Hiding inside one of the hottest places in California, if not the world, is a beautiful flowing waterfall that is one of the most unexpected finds in the desert. You won't believe your eyes when you see it as it's the last place you'd expect to find any kind of waterfall, especially one that's flowing all year long.

Death Valley, one of the hottest places on earth during the scorching heat of summer, is where you'll find this unexpected treasure hiding in the California desert -- Darwin Falls.

To reach Darwin Falls you'll take a short and fairly easy one mile hike. There's nothing breathtaking about the trailhead so don't be discouraged when you arrive. Just trust me, it's totally worth it.

The trailhead isn't the easiest place to spot, so just plan on entering the address into your GPS: Old Toll Road, Death Valley National Park, Panamint Springs, CA 92004.

You'll encounter a variety of scenery on the trail to the waterfall. The first half of the hike is fairly flat with some areas of partial shade.

As you get closer to Darwin Falls you'll traverse through rocks, desert brush, and even a creek.

Depending on the season of your travels to this desert oasis, you might run into a splash of color from the spring wildflowers.

And you never know what charming critters you'll encounter in Death Valley, so make sure to watch where you step.

And just when you think it would be impossible for a flowing waterfall to appear in the desert...

This beauty seems to appear out of nowhere. And no, it's not a mirage.

Darwin Falls is an 80-foot waterfall with an upper and lower area for viewing. The lower area that you see here can be reached by taking this easy 1-mile hike.

If you are more adventurous and want to hike up to the upper falls area, be prepared for some intimidating rock climbing. The hike is steep and challenging -- it's definitely for the advanced hiker if you ask me.

But once you reach the top you'll be dazzled by the scenery. It sure looks amazing from up here!

Personally, I prefer the lower falls. It's easy to reach and provides one of the best views of this unexpected gem in the California desert.

Isn't that an incredible sight to see in the California desert? Have you ever had a chance to experience Darwin Falls?

Death Valley was given its name for a reason - it's truly one of the hottest places in the world at the height of summertime heat. So please proceed with caution when you head to Death Valley and check the temperature before you go. If you can time your visit outside of the blazing summer heat you will have a much more enjoyable time. Why not take advantage of spring and head out there soon?

No matter what time of year you take this hike to see Darwin Falls, make sure you bring plenty of water so you can stay nice and hydrated.