Harmony Borax Works in Death Valley National Park
This week we’re visiting Death Valley National Park. As we enter the winter months, this is the perfect season to enjoy Death Valley while the temperatures are mild, which allow you to explore the park throughout the day (and night). Join me at the historic Harmony Borax Works.
FAST FACTS
• Distance: 0.5 mile loop
• Elevation Change: 50 ft
• Difficulty: Easy
Harmony Borax Works ruins in Death Valley National Park
History
Borax, which was a sought after ingredient used in 19th century gold mining, was first found near Furnace Creek Ranch (at the time called Greenland) in 1881. William T. Coleman built the Harmony plant and began to process ore by early 1884. Harmony Borax Works employed approximately 40 men who produced an estimated three tons of borax daily. Getting the finished product to market from the heart of Death Valley was a difficult task…the Harmony operation became famous for its use of large mule teams and double wagons which hauled borax across the long route to Mojave. The romantic “20-mule team” image persists to this day and has become the symbol of the borax industry in this country. Coleman’s financial empire eventually collapsed, and in 1888 the Harmony plant went out of operation. In time it became part of the borax reserves of the Pacific Coast Borax Company and its successors. On December 31, 1974, the site was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
20 mule team wagon at Harmony Borax Works
Harmony Borax Works ruins in Death Valley National Park
Location & Trail
The self guided Harmony Borax Trail can be found 1 mile west of Furnace Creek on CA-190. A paved area with large spaces for RVs and buses provides plenty of parking. The short hike is mostly paved and is an easy adventure for all ages at under a 1/2 mile round trip with just 50 feet in elevation gain. The loop trail circles around the old mining site. You can see the adobe ruins and get up-close views of a 20 mule team wagon. Multiple information panels dot the path, so take time to read them for details on the borax processing, the story of the Mule Skinner, and life in Harmony. This plant plays a fascinating and important role in Death Valley history.
Chinese laborer housing ruins at Harmony Borax Works
Additional Exploring
Harmony Borax Works was the central feature in the opening of Death Valley and the popularity of the Furnace Creek area. Just south of the parking area is a short gravel/dirt path (less than a quarter mile) which leads to a lesser visited, but important piece, of Harmony Borax history. Most of the men who worked here in the harsh and extreme Death Valley conditions were Chinese workers. Two small ruins are all that remain of the living quarters these men called home after a day of backbreaking work, gathering impure chunks of mineral from the valley floor and loading them into one-horse carts for transport to the borax plant.
Harmony Borax Works in Death Valley National Park
Know Before You Go
• It’s most important to note that hiking after 10am is not advised in Death Valley during the hot summer months, even along short trails like this one.
• The closest restrooms can be found at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center 1 mile east.
• Pets are not allowed on any trail in Death Valley National Park, even if carried. Never leave an animal in your vehicle. Speak with a ranger about one of the dirt roads where you may walk your pet.
• Please remember the Leave No Trace Principles so this spot’s history can be enjoyed and preserved for years to come.
Top 10 Death Valley Spots
Dante’s View
Harmony Borax Works
Mosaic Canyon
Chinese laborer housing ruins at Harmony Borax Works
In Summary
Thanks so much for joining me this week in Death Valley National Park. For a virtual visit of Harmony Borax Works, make sure to watch my Behind the Blog video at the top of this post, or watch it on YouTube here. Until next week I hope you find adventure and encouragement where you go!
20 mule team wagon at Harmony Borax Works
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About Me
I’m Dawn Marie, a travel and lifestyle blogger based out of Southern California. With in-depth articles, travel guides, and reviews on hotels & products, I seek to share my journeys to help you plan for your own. My adventures take me all over California, the western United States, and around the globe...and every Monday I post new content here, including a comprehensive blog post and YouTube video.
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Can you kayak in Death Valley? Yes! Currently the National Park Service is allowing park visitors to take kayaks and stand up paddle boards onto the historic Lake Manly, the ancient lake that has reappeared at Badwater Basin. Read this Flying Dawn Marie travel guide for all the info you need to plan your kayaking adventure to Death Valley National Park, a perfect road trip from Los Angeles.