Death Valley National Park is a vast and rugged desert located in Eastern California, with a diverse landscape of salt flats, sand dunes, canyons, and mountains. It is known as the hottest and driest place in North America, with temperatures that can soar up to 130°F in the summer. Despite its harsh conditions, the park is home to a variety of wildlife, such as coyotes, bighorn sheep, and kangaroo rats, and a unique ecosystem of plants that have adapted to the extreme environment. Here is a guide on best places to see in Death Valley National Park.
How much time to spend in Death Valley National Park
While it’s possible to see some of the highlights of Death Valley National Park in one day, it’s recommended to spend at least two or three days in the park to truly appreciate its beauty and diversity. With two to three days, you’ll have enough time to explore some of the park’s most popular spots such as Badwater Basin, Zabriskie Point, and the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, as well as take a few hikes or scenic drives. You could also venture to some of the more remote areas of the park like the Racetrack or Titus Canyon, or visit some of the park’s historic sites like Scotty’s Castle or the Harmony Borax Works. Whatever your interests, two to three days will allow you to take in the breathtaking landscapes, stunning sunsets, and unique geological features that make Death Valley one of the most fascinating national parks in the United States.
Best places to see in Death Valley National Park
Badwater Basin
This is the lowest point in North America and one of the most popular spots in the park. The basin is a vast expanse of salt flats that stretch as far as the eye can see.
Zabriskie Point
This lookout offers stunning views of the surrounding badlands and is particularly beautiful at sunrise and sunset.
Artist’s Palette
The vibrant colors of this rocky outcropping make for a stunning sight, especially in the late afternoon light.
Dante’s View
This overlook offers sweeping views of the valley floor and surrounding mountains, and is especially beautiful at sunset.
Ubehebe Crater
This massive volcanic crater is more than half a mile wide and 500 feet deep, and offers visitors the chance to hike around the rim or even down to the bottom.
Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes
These towering dunes are a popular spot for photographers, and offer visitors the chance to hike or even sled down the slopes.
Titus Canyon
This scenic canyon offers visitors the chance to drive through towering rock formations and see some of the park’s most stunning geologic features.
Harmony Borax Works
This historic site offers a glimpse into the mining history of the park, and is home to several well-preserved artifacts and buildings.
Scotty’s Castle
This historic mansion offers visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyles of the wealthy during the early 20th century, and is home to a stunning collection of art and artifacts.
Darwin Falls
This beautiful waterfall is located in a remote corner of the park and offers visitors the chance to hike through lush vegetation and see a stunning oasis in the middle of the desert.
Hikes in Death Valley National Park
Golden Canyon Trail
This hike is a moderate 2.8-mile round trip that takes you through a beautiful golden-colored canyon. The trailhead is located near Furnace Creek and the hike offers stunning views of the badlands and colorful rock formations.
Natural Bridge Canyon Trail
The Natural Bridge Canyon Trail is a popular hike in Death Valley National Park, known for its stunning views and unique geological features. The trail is approximately 2 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of 400 feet.
Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes
This easy 2-mile hike takes you through the stunning Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, which are the largest sand dunes in Death Valley. The dunes are constantly changing due to the wind, so the scenery is always different.
Badwater Salt Flats
This easy walk takes you to the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level. The salt flats stretch out as far as the eye can see and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Mosaic Canyon
This moderate 4-mile hike takes you through a narrow canyon with polished marble walls that create a unique mosaic pattern. The trailhead is located near Stovepipe Wells and the hike offers incredible views of the surrounding desert landscape.
Ubehebe Crater
This easy 1.5-mile hike takes you to the rim of the Ubehebe Crater, a massive volcanic crater that is over half a mile wide. The trailhead is located near Scotty’s Castle and offers incredible views of the surrounding desert landscape.
Darwin Falls
This easy 1.5-mile hike takes you to a beautiful oasis in the middle of the desert. The trailhead is located near Panamint Springs and the hike takes you through a lush canyon to a small waterfall.
Titus Canyon
This moderate 2.5-mile hike takes you through a stunning narrow canyon with towering walls. The trailhead is located near the Nevada border and the hike offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Zabriskie Point
This easy walk takes you to one of the most iconic viewpoints in Death Valley. The viewpoint overlooks the colorful badlands and is especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset.
Wildrose Peak
This strenuous 8-mile hike takes you to the summit of Wildrose Peak, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trailhead is located near the Wildrose Campground and the hike is best done in the cooler months.
Telescope Peak
This strenuous 14-mile hike takes you to the highest point in Death Valley at 11,049 feet. The trailhead is located near the Mahogany Flat Campground and offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
