Devil's Hole
Home to the critically endangered Devil's Hole pupfish and a mysterious, deep aquifer in the Nevada desert.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Best light for spotting fish
Devil's Hole
Best Time
Best light for spotting fish
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Home to the critically endangered Devil's Hole pupfish and a mysterious, deep aquifer in the Nevada desert.
"A unique natural wonder, but bring binoculars and be prepared for the drive!"
Bring Binoculars! 🔭
Essential for seeing the pupfish clearly from the viewing platform.
Unpaved Road Ahead 🚗
The last 6 miles are rough; a car with higher clearance is helpful but not always essential.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Devil's Hole Pupfish
Main viewing area
Spot the world's smallest fish species, the Devil's Hole pupfish, in their only natural habitat.
The Mysterious Aquifer
Viewing platform
Gaze into the depths of this ancient, deep aquifer with a history of unexplained phenomena.
Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge
Short drive from Devil's Hole
Visit a nearby pond with a similar pupfish species and better visibility from a boardwalk trail.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Access & Viewing
Pupfish Protection
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Binoculars! 🔭
Essential for seeing the pupfish clearly from the viewing platform.
Unpaved Road Ahead 🚗
The last 6 miles are rough; a car with higher clearance is helpful but not always essential.
Water is Key 💧
It's the desert! Carry plenty of water for your visit.
Respect the Fish 🐠
Do not enter the water or disturb the habitat of the endangered pupfish.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Binoculars! 🔭
Essential for seeing the pupfish clearly from the viewing platform.
Unpaved Road Ahead 🚗
The last 6 miles are rough; a car with higher clearance is helpful but not always essential.
Water is Key 💧
It's the desert! Carry plenty of water for your visit.
Respect the Fish 🐠
Do not enter the water or disturb the habitat of the endangered pupfish.
Check Info Center First ℹ️
Stop at the visitor center for the latest info and maps before heading to Devil's Hole.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Devil's Hole is a unique natural site, primarily known for its endangered pupfish and mysterious aquifer. While some visitors find it underwhelming due to limited viewing access and the challenging unpaved road, others appreciate its scientific importance and remote desert charm. Many recommend combining the visit with nearby Ash Meadows for a better wildlife viewing experience.
"Not a whole lot to see here. Just a hole in a rock you can look into."
Matthijs
"VISIT POINT OF ROCK VERY CLOSE TO THIS. Very very little parking here, a small walk up to the viewing platform. Definitely bring binoculars or something to see down into the area that has water because I couldn't see a dang thing without them.
I noticed people complaining about the road to the hole but I found it flat and nicely graded. Dirt road, able to drive about 40mph comfortably and my car is not an off road vehicle of any kind.
On your way out visit POINT OF ROCK. Parking lot with toilets available. You'll be able to see another variety of the pup fish on the boardwalk trail very easily. I highly recommend stopping there to actually see some wildlife."
Marcell Office (Mark)
"A bit underwhelming. If you visit be sure to stop at the short trail area as you drive out, which takes you to a pond which has the fish swimming and visible"
Cheryl Thompson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Devil's Hole is located in the Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, east of Death Valley National Park. The final 6 miles of the access road are unpaved and can be rough, so a vehicle with good ground clearance is recommended, though many visitors manage with standard cars. It's a remote location, so ensure you have plenty of fuel and water before you go.
No, the last 6 miles of the road leading to Devil's Hole are unpaved and can be quite rough. While some visitors have driven it in standard cars, it's advisable to have a vehicle that can handle uneven terrain.
Using a GPS or a reliable map app is recommended, as cell service can be spotty in the area. It's also wise to stop at the nearest visitor center for the most up-to-date road conditions and directions.
Devil's Hole is approximately a 2-hour drive from Las Vegas, Nevada.
Services are very limited. The nearest facilities are typically found in Pahrump, Nevada, which is a significant drive away. It's crucial to be self-sufficient with water, snacks, and a full tank of gas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to visit Devil's Hole. It is part of the Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge and is generally accessible without a ticket.
Devil's Hole is typically open during daylight hours. However, it's always a good idea to check with the Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge for any specific seasonal closures or access restrictions.
Absolutely not. Swimming or entering the water in Devil's Hole is strictly prohibited to protect the endangered Devil's Hole pupfish and the delicate ecosystem.
Devil's Hole itself is a natural geological formation. The main safety concerns are related to the remote desert environment, including extreme temperatures, lack of services, and the unpaved road. Always be prepared for desert conditions.
Yes, there are significant restrictions. The area is fenced to prevent access to the water, and visitors must stay within designated viewing areas. Disturbing the wildlife or the habitat is strictly forbidden.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The primary attraction is the unique aquifer and the chance to spot the critically endangered Devil's Hole pupfish. You can view the hole from a fenced platform. Binoculars are highly recommended to see the fish clearly.
Visitor opinions vary. Some find it underwhelming due to limited visibility and the inability to get close, while others appreciate the unique natural history and the chance to see an endangered species. It's often recommended to combine it with a visit to the nearby Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge for a better chance of seeing pupfish.
The Devil's Hole pupfish (Cyprinodon diabolis) is a small, critically endangered fish found only in Devil's Hole. They are known for their playful, dog-like behavior. Their survival is dependent on the stable temperature and unique conditions of the aquifer.
Yes, you can take photos from the designated viewing area. However, remember that flash photography might disturb the wildlife, so use it judiciously.
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for desert weather, including sun protection (hat, sunscreen). Sturdy walking shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to explore any nearby trails.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no food services or restaurants at Devil's Hole. It is a remote natural site. Visitors must bring their own food and drinks.
The closest dining options are in Pahrump, Nevada, which is a considerable drive away. It's best to pack a picnic or plan your meals before or after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The primary photography spot is the designated viewing platform overlooking the aquifer. Capturing the pupfish requires patience and good zoom capabilities or binoculars.
Yes, you can photograph the pupfish from the viewing area. However, due to their small size and the distance, it can be challenging. Consider using a telephoto lens.
Mid-day generally offers the best light for viewing the water and any visible fish, though the harsh desert sun can be intense. Early morning or late afternoon might offer softer light for landscape shots of the surrounding desert.
Drone usage is typically restricted in National Wildlife Refuges to protect wildlife and their habitats. It's best to check the specific regulations for Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities at Devil's Hole. The drive on the unpaved road can be bumpy, so ensure children are secured and comfortable. The educational aspect of seeing a species found nowhere else on Earth can be a powerful takeaway for kids interested in wildlife and unique ecosystems.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
Be prepared for the isolation: ensure your vehicle is in good condition, carry a spare tire, and have navigation tools that work offline. The lack of services means you'll need to be self-sufficient, which can be part of the appeal for seasoned road trippers.
🐠 Wildlife & Nature Lovers
To maximize your chances of seeing pupfish and other desert wildlife, consider visiting the nearby Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge. This area offers more accessible viewing opportunities and a broader understanding of the unique flora and fauna adapted to this arid environment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enigmatic Devil's Hole Aquifer
Historically, there have been intriguing accounts of unusual phenomena associated with Devil's Hole. Some early attempts to measure its depth with ropes reportedly resulted in the ropes snapping mysteriously, leading to theories of unseen forces at play. While these stories add to the mystique, the primary scientific focus remains on understanding the aquifer's hydrology and its role in supporting life.
Guardians of the Devil's Hole Pupfish
Protecting this unique species is paramount, which is why Devil's Hole is heavily protected. A fence surrounds the main pool, and access is strictly limited to a viewing platform. Researchers are the only ones permitted to enter the water for scientific study, ensuring minimal disturbance to the pupfish and their habitat. Visitors play a vital role by respecting these restrictions and observing from a distance, contributing to the ongoing conservation efforts for this irreplaceable species.
Navigating the Desert Roads
Beyond the road conditions, the remoteness of Devil's Hole means being prepared is essential. Cell service is unreliable, so downloading offline maps and informing someone of your travel plans is a wise precaution. Carrying ample water, snacks, and ensuring your vehicle is in good working order are critical steps for a safe and enjoyable visit to this unique natural site.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit