A dreamy Death Valley landmark, Artists Palette, to close temporarily
Artists Palette, one of those dreamy desert landscapes found only in Death Valley National Park, will be closed for repairs starting Monday, according to a National Park Service release.
If you’re visiting the park this winter, you’ll have to skip this attraction. The nine-mile Artists Drive and a half-mile on either side of the road will be closed through March 15. That means no vehicles or pedestrians will be allowed into the area.
The draw at one of the park’s most popular scenic spots is the blend of greens, blues and other colors in the rocks. While it looks like something an artist might paint, it’s really the result of weathering of volcanic rock and ash that create the dramatic hues, the release says.
The park service will repave the road and repair other damage done during flash floods in October 2015.
The funky Scotty’s Castle, also seriously damaged in the 2015 storms, remains closed until 2019. The ornate mansion was built as a vacation getaway in the 1930s.
There are other road closures in the park as of Tuesday, including Upper Wildrose Road (from Charcoal Kilns to Mahogany Flat) and Dante’s View Road, both because of snow and ice. Check out the park’s road closures for up-to-date information.
Info: Death Valley National Park, (760) 786-3200
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