The wildflower season in Death Valley runs from mid-February through early June, depending on two factors: elevation and winter rains. Of course, the flowers start to bloom at the lower elevations first, essentially on the valley floors and along the alluvial fans, then move up into the hills and mountains.
Between mid-February and mid-April, depending on rainfall, you’ll see abundant poppies, verbena, evening primrose, desert star, desert gold, and early-blooming cacti (these are a little higher in the hills).
In April and May, between 2,000 and 4,000 feet, dominant species include paintbrush, lupine, bear poppy, and daisies; Joshua tree and more cacti also flower at this time.
From May to early June, you’ll find wildrose, rabbitbrush, mariposa lilies, and lupine above 4,000 feet.
Into the summer, it’s just too hot and the flowers die off. Which brings us to your question.
Death Valley especially, but also the Mojave Desert, are not to be taken lightly. Even short trips into these arid areas, without proper preparation, can turn dangerous. The good news is, a few simple common-sense precautions can mitigate most unexpected situations.
First, of course, make sure your trusty steed has had the best care: fuel, fluids, tire pressure, spare tire and jack; a gallon of antifreeze is a good thing to have along.
At least a gallon of fresh water is critical. A good first-aid kit, too, is essential.
While hiking, wear dark glasses. Cover up to avoid burning. Drink regularly, but not to excess. If you’re heading deeper into the backcountry, it’s never a bad idea to try to let someone — a friend or park ranger — know where you’re going and when you’ll be back. And don’t forget to check in when you return.
If the car overheats or even just gets hot, stop until it cools off, then check the water level in the radiator.
If you start to smell rubber, your tires are overheating, which makes them highly susceptible to blowouts. Stop, in some shade if possible, to let them cool down.
If you can’t get the car going, that’s what cell phones are for. Call for a tow truck.
In the worst-case scenario and you’re out of cell-phone range, don’t panic. Stay with the vehicle until after the sun has gone down, then send the strongest member of the party to the main road for help. Most desert deaths occur from dehydration from walking too long in the sun.
Not to be too morbid or fatalistic about it, but since we looked it up, it’s not bad information to have. Your life expectancy — in average temperatures, resting, in the shade, for the average person — is up to a week with no water. "Up to" is the crux here; some experts cite 100 hours or so. It's even less, of course, in extreme heat, three days max.
Try not to verify these statistics.
