Death Valley Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary

Death Valley is a place of superlatives, it is the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the United States, yet it is teeming with life and geological wonder. Far from being a barren wasteland, this vast park in California offers a landscape so surreal it has doubled for other planets in cinema. From the blinding white salt flats of Badwater Basin to the snow-capped peaks of the Panamint Range, the contrast here is staggering.

Visitors are often surprised by the sheer scale and variety of the terrain. One moment you are standing on a sea of sand dunes, and an hour later you are exploring the ruins of a gold rush ghost town or walking through a canyon of polished marble. Whether you are chasing the spring superbloom or seeking the profound silence of the deep desert winter, Death Valley promises an adventure that feels entirely out of this world.

A Land of Mining and Mystery

Death Valley’s history is as colorful as its painted hills. For centuries, the Timbisha Shoshone people have stewarded this land, adapting to its harsh rhythms. In the late 19th century, the discovery of borax, the “white gold of the desert”, brought iconic 20-mule teams hauling massive wagons across the blistering heat. You can still see the remnants of this era in the rusted machinery and abandoned mines scattered throughout the park.

Beyond the history, the park is an International Dark Sky Park, offering some of the best stargazing on Earth. The isolation that made life difficult for miners now ensures pristine night skies free from light pollution. Standing on the valley floor at night, looking up at the Milky Way stretching horizon to horizon, is a humbling experience that draws astronomers and dreamers alike.

The Icons You’ll Want to See

Badwater Basin - Located 17 miles south of Furnace Creek, this is the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level. A flat 1-mile walk takes you onto the salt polygon formations. Free with park entry.

Zabriskie Point - Just 5 miles east of Furnace Creek on Hwy 190, this is the premier sunrise spot. A short, paved uphill walk leads to a vista overlooking the golden badlands. Free with park entry.

Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes - Located near Stovepipe Wells, 22 miles north of Furnace Creek. These dunes rise 100 feet from the floor and are best explored at sunrise or sunset to see the shadows play. Free with park entry.

Artist’s Drive - A 9-mile one-way paved loop off Badwater Road. The highlight is Artist’s Palette, where volcanic deposits have colored the hills in shades of green, pink, and purple. Vehicles over 25 feet are prohibited.

Dante’s View - Situated 25 miles from Furnace Creek, this viewpoint sits at 5,475 feet. It offers the best panoramic view of the valley but requires driving a winding road not suitable for trailers. Free with park entry.

Planning Your Visit

Death Valley is massive, it is the largest national park in the lower 48 states, so driving distances are long. The main hub is Furnace Creek, where you will find the visitor center, gas, and the most lodging options. GPS can be unreliable, so always carry a physical map. Cell service is generally available only at Furnace Creek and Stovepipe Wells.

Safety is paramount here. The heat is real and can be lethal, even in spring and fall. Always carry more water than you think you need, at least one gallon per person per day. Stay on paved roads unless you have a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle with unparalleled tires, as towing services are distant and extremely expensive.

The desert is a place of extremes, but with the right timing, it is also a place of profound beauty. Whether you come for the wildflower blooms in spring or the crystal-clear hiking days of winter, Death Valley will leave an indelible mark on your memory.