Death Valley National Park
National Park · California, Nevada

Death Valley National Park

Photo: Brocken Inaglory · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Death Valley is a huge desert basin that holds the lowest point in North America, Badwater Basin, at 282 feet below sea level. Top sights include Zabriskie Point, Artists Drive, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes and Dante's View. Summer heat can pass 120°F, so carry lots of water, fill up with fuel before you enter and do not hike at lower elevations after 10 a.m. in summer.

Good to know

Tickets
Charges an entry fee per vehicle, covered by the America the Beautiful pass. Check nps.gov for current rates. You can buy a pass online, at the visitor center or at self-pay machines.
Time needed
One full day for the main sights around Furnace Creek; two to three days to go further.
Best time
November to March for mild weather. Wildflowers can bloom in February and March after wet winters.
Getting there
Furnace Creek, in the town of Death Valley, is the hub. Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport is about 2 hours by car.

Where to stay nearby

Gateway towns with hotels and food, close to the park entrances:
Death Valley, California
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Death Valley National Park questions

Is Death Valley safe to visit in summer?

Yes, if you stay close to your car and stick to viewpoints. Avoid hiking at low elevations and carry extra water.

Is Scotty's Castle open?

The house itself is still closed after flood damage. Limited guided tours of the grounds run on set dates; check nps.gov before you go.

Where should I stay in Death Valley?

The Oasis at Death Valley and Stovepipe Wells are inside the park. Book early for winter and spring.

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