death valley tour guide

• Skip to global NPS navigation
• Skip to this park navigation
• Skip to the main content
• Skip to this park information section
• Skip to the footer section

Exiting nps.gov

Alerts in effect, ranger programs and guided tours.

Last updated: March 22, 2024

Park footer

Contact info, mailing address:.

P.O. Box 579 Death Valley, CA 92328

760 786-3200

Stay Connected

Discover Which Colorado Mountain Town is right for you

Your Utterly Scenic Death Valley Itinerary

• December 3, 2020
• By foxintheforest

Last Updated on January 15, 2024 by foxintheforest

As the largest national park in the Lower 48, Death Valley has a lot to offer. Eerie rock formations and ever-expanding salt flats feel other-worldly. Make the most of your visit with this Death Valley itinerary designed to bring you the most beautiful scenes in Death Valley.

Taking a Death Valley Road Trip – long or short – is definitely a beautiful experience. Don’t let the name fool you – this place has plenty of life. In fact, it’s real name is “Tumpisa” or “land of the red paint rock.”

I’ve been all over the country, and Death Valley truly surprised me. It’s vast, dramatic landscape brings a beauty that’s hard to describe. Even photos don’t really do the place justice.

About this Mega-Epic Death Valley Itinerary

Okay, so as a full-time outdoor writer, I’ve become an expert at making the most of your time outdoors. This stunning Death Valley itinerary features:

• Info on when to visit Death Valley National Park
• How many days to spend exploring the park
• Accessing the park and how to plan a Death Valley road trip
• A comprehensive Death Valley itinerary featuring one day in Death Valley and additional days.
• Camping and places to stay
• Tips for visiting Death Valley
• Additional planning resources

When to Visit Death Valley

One of the great things about Death Valley is the ability to visit the park year-round and still be able to see (most) main attractions.

Remember, Furnace Creek – inside the park – is the HOTTEST place in the country. I’m talking melt-your-skin-off 130-degree temps. SCORCHER.

Therefore it’s best to visit Death Valley between October and April. Fall sees less crowds. Winter is best for camping and hiking. While spring is busy with wildflower viewers.

Summer is possible, but come prepared! Lots of sunscreen, long-sleeve UPF clothing, plenty of water and electrolytes, and a robust vehicle with aircon.

How Many Days Should I Spend in Death Valley?

There are several unique ways to go on a Death Valley road trip, however most Death Valley itineraries are a maximum of 3 days.

If you only have one day in Death Valley, you can easily see many of the big highlights.

Since some of the other must-see attractions are so spread out, two days is a perfect amount of time to spend in Death Valley.

For those that don’t want to feel rushed – or have a particular interest in mining history – three days is perfect.

Pro Tip : It’s $30 to enter Death Valley National Park or free with an America the Beautiful Parks Pass.

Going on a Death Valley Road Trip

Alright, so if you’ve looked on a map, you’ll see that Death Valley is kind of…out there. In fact, it feels like the middle of nowhere. This certainly adds to the mistique of the park.

There are two main ways to go on a Death Valley road trip. Head from the east or west side of the park.

From Las Vegas

Death Valley is one of the best day trips from Las Vegas. If you’re arriving from Las Vegas, the easiest way to access Death Valley is to head east on US 95, then head south State Road 160.

You’ll pass through Pahrump, a small town that’s perfect for mid-priced lodging (and cheap gas). Fill up on gas here before heading out on your Death Valley itinerary.

From Los Angeles

The fastest way to get to Death Valley from LA is to head past Barstow on I-15 and swing northeast around the park. You’ll pass Death Valley Junction – an odd ghost town.

Alternatively, you can access the park from the west side via Panamint Springs. This is your best option if you want to create a Death Valley road trip that includes stops like Alabama Hills, the Sequoia National Forest and other awesome places in California.

Death Valley Itinerary Day 1

First, stop at one of the pay stations near Furnace Creek (or others). It’s $30 for 7 days in the park. Other fee stations include:

• Stovepipe Wells Ranger Station
• Grapevine Ranger Station
• Zabriskie Point
• Hell’s Gate
• Campgrounds in the park

See the Drama of Death Valley at Dante’s View

Your first stop takes you to 5,476 feet above sea level. Dante’s View is hands-down one of the best things to see in Death Valley.

This mega-stunning viewpoint shows you just how vast (and tall) Death Valley really is. The elevation difference between the highest point – Telescope Peak – and the lowest point – Badwater Basin – is over 11,000 feet.

If you can make it here for sunset, ah-mazing! If not, the views are still stellar all day.

Pro tip: Bring a jacket, it’s actually chilly up here!

Distance from Furnace Creek: 24 miles, 40 minutes

Scope Out the Sand Flats at Badwater Basin

After you’ve soaked up the most of the panorama at Dante’s View, you’re going down. Way down.

Badwater Basin is the lowest point in the US at -282 feet below the sea. The salt leeches from below the ground and creates stunning crystal formations. With the salt comes the moisture. The ground is surprisingly wet just below the salt crust. There are even lakes here.

Take your time and explore, but be aware of the heat. This stop is best at the beginning of the day before the crowds show up and the sun becomes too oppressive.

There are toilets here too, so take advantage if you need the facilities.

Pro tip: This place sucks the life out of you quickly. Salt pans dry out your skin and reflect the sun’s rays. Bring sunscreen, wear proper footwear, and don’t wander too far if it’s hot.

Distance from Dante’s View: 41 miles, 1 hour.

Hike the Natural Bridge

This short trail is only 2 miles round-trip and is an easy hike if the temperatures are cooler.

You’ll spot a stunning natural bridge and see just how uniquely strange the rock is here. It’s almost as if it will crumble at any moment, but at the same time, the clay-like soil is very unforgiving.

If you’ve seen the best of the American Southwest, this is a ho-hum hike (scope out Golden Canyon instead). However, if you’ve never seen a natural bridge before, it certainly has a wow-factor!

Pro Tip: If you’re visiting during the warmer months (April through October) hike the Natural Bridge after Dante’s View. Then head to the Devil’s Golf course for a delicious lunch. Afterwards, peep Badwater basin before continuing with the rest of this Death Valley itinerary.

Distance from Badwater Basin: 5 miles, 10 minutes

Pack a Picnic Lunch at the Devil’s Golf Course

For a whacky and weird lunch spot, take the dirt road to the Devil’s Golf Course. Signs on Badwater Road guide the way (you’ll pass it if you’re coming from Dante’s View to Badwater).

Here you’ll be able to see just how much upheavel and movement the floods, salt, and water cause. Sometimes salt formations form that look like golf balls (or eggs) which is where the spot got it’s name.

Plan for a picnic lunch in your vehicle (if it’s hot) or pop the trunk and sit facing this strange landscape. Don’t forget to pack out all of your trash.

Pro tip: The terrain here is unforgiving. It’s easy to trip and fall so take care.

Distance from Natural Bridge Trailhead: 12 miles, 17 minutes

Drive to the Painted Hills of Artist’s Pallet

One of the highlights of one day in Death Valley has to be Artist’s Drive. These gorgeous hills appear to be brushed by an artist with their vibrant greens, purples, and yellows.

The colors come from various minerals and elements in the rock. Half way through the drive you’ll reach Artist’s Pallet. This pull out gets you up close and personal to these stunning hillsides.

You can walk around and explore a little to really admire the view. Also, this is a great spot for a toilet break.

The one-way loop drive through these stunning hills is a must-do on any Death Valley itinerary. Honestly, I thought it was a highlight of the park. Take your time and use the little dirt pullouts to explore this area further (and without crowds).

Pro Tip: The colors are at their brightest when the sun is at its highest. Visit during the middle of the day for the best color.

Distance from Devil’s Golf Course: 10 miles, 20 minutes

Catch a Sunset at Zabriskie Point

By this point, you may be tuckered out (or the sun may be heading to bed). If you’ve got time, check out the “More Options” section for nearby attractions to add to your Death Valley itinerary.

If not, then round out your day with a sunset at Zabriskie Point. Watch as the sun lowers over the horizon and the golden hills come to life with playful shadows. This easy overlook has benches and a few nearby hills to explore.

Distance from Artist’s Drive: 13 miles, 22 minutes

If you’re only spending one day in Death Valley then now is the time to head back. Or, you can opt to stay until the sky grows dark and check out the stars!

Stargazing in Death Valley

Death Valley National Park lies in one of the few Dark Sky Territories left in the US. This means that there is no light polution to obstruct your nightime view.

One of the most amazing parts of any multi-day Death Valley itinerary is stargazing. A few of the most incredible spots to see the stars is:

• Dante’s View
• Harmony Borax Works
• Badwater Basin
• Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes

More Options for One Day in Death Valley

If you’re quick to see the sights, you can scope out these additional nearby attractions in this section of Death Valley National Park:

• Twenty Mule Team Canyon : Short scenic drive with short hiking opportunities. Near Zabriskie Point.
• Golden Canyon: 4.4-mile scenic loop hike (Gower Gulch) great for sunset. Near Artist’s Drive. Could do instead of Natural Bridge.
• Furnace Creek Visitor Center: Learn about the unique history and geology of this magical location. Closed in 2020.

Where to Stay in Death Valley

There are not too many options when it comes to where to stay in Death Valley. In fact, there are only a couple of (expensive) lodging options inside the park.

• Stovepipe Wells Hotel
• The Inn at Furnace Creek
• The Ranch at Furnace Creek
• Panamint Springs Resort

For lodging outside the park, check out the towns of Beatty, Nevada in the north or Pahrump towards the south end of the park. Both towns offer mid-range lodging that’s cheaper than staying inside Death Valley.

Death Valley Camping

If you’re keen to camp in the desert, then reserve a spot (or use a first-come-first-served campground) inside Death Valley National Park. Camping is closed during the summer months. You’ll find 9 campgrounds in the park:

• Furnace Creek: Reservations. Open year-round (summer not recommended).
• Sunset at Furnace Creek : first-come-first-served
• Texas Spring at Furnace Creek : first-come-first-served
• Stovepipe Wells : first-come-first-served
• Mesquite Spring : first-come-first-served
• Emigrant: first-come-first-served. Tent only.
• Wildrose : first-come-first-served
• Thorndike : first-come-first-served. 4WD required.
• Mahogany Flat : first-come-first-served. 4WD required.

Death Valley Road Trip Day 2

Risse and shine! It’s time for day 2 of this Death Valley itinerary. Today you’ll be exploring the northern end of the park. With plenty of beautiful sites and mining history, there’s a lot to see.

Wonder About the Stones at the Racetrack Playa

Start your day early and head toward one of Death Valley’s more remote attractions, Racetrack Playa. It’s a bumpy ride, but worth it to check out this unique place.

The first thing you’ll notice are the rocks that seem to 1) come from nowhere and 2) move. Yup. That’s right. These rocks travel (you can tell from the depression of mud behind them).

Scientists are still stumped by this phenomena. Please don’t move the rocks, or step on their unique trails across the badlands.

Pro Tip: This place is far out of the way. You’ll need a 4×4 vehicle to make this bumpy journey.

Distance from Furnace Creek: 83 miles, 3 hours

Hike the Ubehebe Crater

After you’ve solved the mystery of the traveling rocks, head to the Ubehebe Crater. The drive through the badlands is quite pleseant and there’s plenty to see at this massive crater.

Opt to walk down and back out of the crater (remember you’ll be going uphill in the heat on the way back). Alternatively you can circumnavigate the crater and check out the views nearby. Option 2 is my favorite, since you’ll have the best views.

Pro Tip: This is a great lunch spot too!

Distance from Racetrack Playa: 27 miles, 1 hour and 50 minutes.

Scour the Mesquite Sand Dunes

After a filling lunch, it’s time to see the most beautiful sand dunes in Death Valley. The Mesquite Sand Dunes are one of four dunes in the park, and the easiest to access.

Climb the dunes and sled down (a popular activity) or relax and soak in the views. The Mesquite Sand Dunes deliver some of the most incredible views in the park.

It’s easy to spend a few hours here, so take your time to explore or come back later in the evening.

Distance from Ubehebe Crater: 45 miles, 1 hour.

Additional Activities for Day 2 of this Death Valley Itinerary

If you’re a fast visitor or you’ve got extra days in your Death Valley Itinerary, these northern attracations are woth a look:

• Stovepipe Wells : Old town and mining community
• Harmony Borax Works: Mining operation.
• Grotto Canyon Hike : A technical, scrambly, 2-mile hike that offers a little shade and a lot of challenges
• Telescope Peak Trail: A challenging 14-mile hike that lets you see both the highest (Mt Whitney, 14,505 feet) and lowest (Badwater Basin (-282 feet) in the contiguous US.
• Aguereberry Point : A stunning viewpoint that requires a 4×4 vehicle. The views are better than Dante’s.

Tips for Visiting Death Valley

Before you head out on a Death Valley road trip, keep these tips in mind:

• The park is HUGE! Driving distances are vast and gas is hard to come by. Fuel up before you come in and take your time – the drives are wonderful.
• Bring plenty of water, shade, and salty snacks. There really aren’t any fascilities in the park (unless you want to grossly over-pay) so come prepared.
• Start early and head out in the evenings. If you’re hear during the hot months, definitely avoid the heat of the day, it’s oppressive.
• Cell service is mostly non-existant. Download offline maps with Google Maps before you head out, or pick up a National Geographic map of the area.

Come see one of the most unique places in America with this Death Valley itinerary. You’ll hit the highlights and feel like you’ve really gotten a flavor for the park.

Honestly, this place truly wowed me, and I’ve seen some amazing places. It’s worth it to at least spend one day in Death Valley to see what all the excitement is about.

Additional Death Valley Road Trip Resources

Planning a trip to Death Valley? Here are a few handy resources for nearby attractions:

• What to See in Red Rock Canyon
• The Most Challenging Hikes in California

Meg Atteberry

Meg is a long-time Colorado local and outdoor industry professional. She's spent the last 15 years hiking, climbing, mountaineering, and canyoneering all over Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and Nevada in search of the best views. She's written for Outside Magazine, REI, Backpacker Magazine, and appeared on the Weather Channel.

Let’s connect!

Meg aka Fox is a 30-something who's born to explore. Toddler mom, queer, and neuro-spicy her favorite things to do are climb in the alpine and camp in the desert. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure.

7 Best Death Valley Tours for Epic Adventures

Ready for an adventure? Plan the ultimate Californian trip with one of these epic Death Valley tours.

Okay, I’ll admit: Death Valley appears to the untrained eye as an arid and desolate destination – and it might be. But, with its medley of russet stone and stunning mineral deposits, it’s also an explorer’s paradise. 

Boasting landscapes that defy imagination and extreme temperature levels, Death Valley is an iconic strip of Eastern California that needs to be seen to be believed.

Wait up before you go booking your Death Valley adventure – I’m about to treat you to the best Death Valley tours money can buy. No, I’m not kidding, these tours are insane .

The Best Death Valley Tours 

Las vegas: death valley day tour.

If there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s that Death Valley has enough distinct features to keep anyone busy for days. 

But, alas, sometimes all you have is one day. But, when you book this Death Valley Day Tour , maybe one (extremely jam-packed) day is all you need.

How does a walk along the lowest elevation in North America sound? Or maybe hitting up some eclectic desert Americana sites is more your vibe? That and much more await you during this tour. 

The big highlight, though, is the stop at Furnace Creek, where the hottest air temperature in Death Valley occurred in 1913—a whopping 134°F (57°C).

If that doesn’t win you over just yet, you’ll also visit Area 51 sites, such as the remote Alien Crater, during this tour. A stop at one of Death Valley’s ghost towns, Rhyolite, adds some spooky flair, while the Goldwell Open Air Museum showcases oddities and a glimpse into the past.

Finally, you’ll have ample chance to catch some buzzworthy snapshots at Badwater Basin, followed by the swirling colours of Zabriskie Point.

Tip: Eager to explore more of the Golden State? Read my guide on the best things to do in California .

Book Your Spot on the Death Valley Day Tour from Las Vegas

From Las Vegas: Full-Day Death Valley Group Tour

While Death Valley boasts a myriad of exciting locations to visit, its vast landscapes make fitting the best into one day quite tricky.  But don’t say I don’t go above and beyond – this full-day Death Valley Group Tour , excitingly, includes the best of the best.

With its first stop, the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, you get the chance to traverse one of the most majestic dunes in the world. 

Soon after, you’ll head to the stunning Zabriskie Point and Artist’s Palette, which will have your cameras working overtime. It’s at Artist’s Palette, where you hike a short distance for some epic scenes of volcanic minerals frozen in time.

Better yet, this tour includes complimentary food and drinks to ensure your belly is as treated as your eyes. 

Departing from the Martian-like landscapes of Zabriskie Point, you’ll end the tour at Dante’s View. Here breathtaking sights of the edge of the Black Mountains await.

Book a Spot on This Full-Day Death Valley Group Tour

Death Valley NP Full-Day Small Groups Tour from Las Vegas

Staying in Las Vegas and eager to experience the ultimate Death Valley tour? Look no further than this full-day Small Group Tour , with direct pickup from central Vegas. 

I would like to think that I’m the Queen of getting bang for your buck, and this tour easily ranks as one of the best value Death Valley excursions.

As a first stop, you’ll get up close and personal with Badwater Basin, the lowest point in the Western Hemisphere. Taking you on a scenic drive after that through Artist’s Palette and a stop at the Death Valley Visitors Centre immerses you in the park’s history.

Now, if you’re eager for epic selfie opportunities (how else are you going to flex on the ‘Gram, of course?), this tour includes viewpoints such as Dante’s View, Zabriskie Point, and the Devil’s Golf Course. 

Another major highlight of this tour is the provided picnic lunch at Furnace Creek and a drive back to Vegas through Mule Team Canyon.

Tip: This tour is available as a fully private day tour if you book all five seats.

Book an Epic Adventure with this Full-Day Small Groups Tour

From Las Vegas: Death Valley Trekker Tour

Newbie looking to hit up the valley? Next up is one of the most iconic Death Valley National Park tours from Las Vegas. The Death Valley Trekker Tour offers a luxurious trip in a comfortable, specially fitted all-terrain vehicle, taking you to places few others go.

Along this tour (and from the comfort of your reclining leather captain seats, no less), you’ll get to admire all the popular sites. 

Starting in Badwater Basin, where you’ll stand 282 feet below sea level, the tour takes you to the historic Harmony Borax Works. This tour includes a prepacked lunch to enjoy as you roam from one unique spot to the next.

Heading off-road through Mule Team Canyon, you’ll get to marvel at the sweeping vistas and mountainous Amargosa Mountain Range. Things finish up with stops at the Devil’s Golf Course and Artist’s Palette viewpoints before heading back to Las Vegas.

Explore Death Valley in Style with the Death Valley Trekker Tour

Death Valley: Full-Day Tour from Las Vegas

Most tours of Death Valley head to its enigmatic locations, which are perfect if you’re an eager explorer looking for memorable hotspots. But some tours highlight the valley’s breathtaking landscapes, which is why this full-day Death Valley Tour stands out.

Expect to feast your eyes on the endless desert, vast valleys, and sculpted peaks of Death Valley during this stunner. Yes, it includes stops at typical attractions such as Badwater Basin and Rhyolite, but it adds a unique flair. If you’re a scenery-chaser, this one’s for you.

Prepare yourself (and your cameras) for almost unreal valley views from Hell’s Gate, followed by gorgeous photo ops at Zabriskie Point. Hitting the colourful swirls of the Artist’s Palette, the stunning Salt Lake, and the mind blowing Sand Dunes to finish off.

Tip: Include a Death Valley tour on this great California road trip .

Go Sightseeing with this Full-Day Death Valley Tour

From Las Vegas: Death Valley & Rhyolite Ghost Town Private Tour

Next up is a tour that, admittedly, won’t be for everyone – but fans of all things spooky won’t want to miss out.

Exploring the harsh terrain of Death Valley is one thing, but wandering the lonely streets of its most famous ghost town is an almost surreal, certainly creepy experience. Heading out on this Death Valley & Rhyolite Tour with an expert guide is a must.

Starting the trip, you’ll venture through the valley’s picturesque landscapes and iconic regions. 

Grab some snapshots of Zabriskie Point, the Harmony Borax Works, and then step into the past in Rhyolite, a gold rush town which only saw habitation for 12 years. 

Your guide will divulge its rich history – and, while there likely won’t be any actual ghosts (don’t worry), I guarantee you’ll be left feeling a little but unsettled by the town.

Once you’ve explored the abandoned town, you’ll head back through the Mojave Desert and return to your comfy Las Vegas accommodation.

Ghost Hunt and Explore the Town of Rhyolite on this Private Tour

From Las Vegas: Death Valley Day Trip with Stargazing & Wine Tour

Alright, so I may have saved the best ‘til last. I’ve got a very smug face right now.

For a truly unforgettable experience within Death Valley National Park, you’ll want to book this full-day hiking Death Valley Day Trip . 

I know what you’re thinking – Julianna, what’s so special about this one? Well, allow me to explain.

Led by a professional photographer and guide, you’ll embark on an intimate adventure with the panoramic landscapes of the valley. Starting the tour in Pahrump, things kick off with wine tasting at a local winery (it’s a huge yes from me), followed by a journey to Dante’s View, Badwater Basin, and Furnace Creek. 

Seeing why it’s so special yet? Thought so.

But that’s not all: To cap off your epic adventure, you and your group will head to Zabriskie Point as the sun begins to set. As the sun sets, a spectacular array of dazzling stars begins to shine above, and your senses can feast on the best stargazing opportunity in the park.

Tip: After this tour, all photos taken by your professional guide are available to download from the generated link provided.

Indulge in Wine and Stargaze during This Death Valley Day Trip

Practical Tips for Booking Your Death Valley Tour

• Be sure to check the availability of your tour before booking. Most Death Valley tours only have seasonal availability.
• Death Valley gets EXTREMELY hot – I’m talking skin blisteringly so. Make sure you wear suncream and bring a hat and plenty of water, you’ll thank yourself. Check out my guide to essential travel gear to help you prepare.
• It sucks but some tours are not suitable for certain people, such as minors and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions. Make sure your chosen excursion accommodates you before booking.

Read More Death Valley Guides

• Brilliant National Parks to Visit in December
• The Ultimate California Road Trip
• Unmissable Things to do in California

I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

Related Posts

How to Hike to the Birthing Cave in Sedona: Trail Guide

A Guide to the Best Places to Stay in Washington DC

Best Airbnbs in Santa Barbara: Cool, Quirky & Stylish Accommodation in Santa Barbara

Following the Verde Valley Wine Trail: Best Wineries & Vineyards

Follow me on Instagram for travel inspiration, tips, and guides.

Your Death Valley Visitor Guide: Comprehensive Travel Tips

Sure, Yosemite’s mountains are showy and California’s redwoods are towering, but Death Valley isn’t trying to be your best friend. It’s going to challenge you. The park presents a stark, sharp landscape that rewards visitors who are looking for something more edgy.

If that’s you, then read on because this guide will help you plan your Death Valley visit. I aim to be helpful, so this guide is stuffed with practical tips about the park, suggested things to do, an accommodation guide and packing ideas.

(This article contains affiliate links. This means that if you choose to purchase, I’ll make a small commission.)

You can trust me to give you accurate Death Valley travel planning tips because I actually live in California and visit Death Valley at least every other year. I encourage you to scroll the whole article. But if you have particular questions, use this handy table of contents to skip around.

• Why visit Death Valley
• Info on the Death Valley Visitors Center
• How to get to to Death Valley
• How many days do you need for Death Valley
• Top things to do in Death Valley National Park
• The best time to visit Death Valley
• Where to stay in Death Valley
• Food, gas and cell service
• Guided tours
• What to pack

Why Visit Death Valley

Death Valley is named for the doomed efforts of pioneers who, in 1849, were desperately seeking passage through the southern Sierras. This hot, dry landscape is an unforgiving place for a lost wagon train, but the pioneers persevered. After the establishment of California, Death Valley became a borax mining boom-town in the 1880’s.

In the 1920’s the Pacific Borax Company engaged in a generous act of corporate philanthropy when they lobbied the US government and local citizens to to turn their cash cow into a protected space. The area was designated a National Monument in 1933, and then a National Park in 1994.

Death Valley’s topography includes a vast salt lake bed, which is the lowest spot in the US at -282 feet. In stark contrast, the lake bed is dwarfed by the 11,000 foot Telegraph Peak. There are eroding sandstone cliffs, canyons, volcanic craters and cliffs “painted” with mineral deposits.

The lonely remnants of Death Valley’s mining boom also add historical interest to the park. This forbidding landscape and hard scrabble history has a lot of stories to tell, which is why visiting Death Valley National Park is such a treat.

For more background, check out some of our fun facts about Death Valley .

Death Valley National Park Visitor Center & Fees

Death Valley actually covers 5,200 square miles of the Mohave Desert. But many of the top things to do in Death Valley are located in a centralized area near Furnace Creek, which is also where the Visitor Center is located.

At the Visitor Center you can also check in for the nearby campgrounds, get advice on how to visit the park’s attractions, get hiking suggestions (with maps), and visit the bookstore. They also have museum exhibits on the park’s history and geology. And you can sign your kids up for the Junior Ranger program.

The Furnace Creek Visitor Center is open most days from 8a-5p.

Death Valley Passes

Death Valley has 5 roads that enter the park and none of them are gated. Access into the park is open all of the time. But you do still need a pass to visit. And the only way to get a park map, is to buy the pass.

The entrance fee for Death Valley is $30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. Motorcycles are $25 and people traveling on foot (who does that in Death Valley?) or bike (ditto!) are $15. An annual pass to Death Valley is $55.

You can also use the $80 America the Beautiful National Parks annual pass , the free Military and Veterans pass or the $80 Senior lifetime pass to access the park.

How to Get to Death Valley

How far is death valley from los angeles.

LA to Death Valley : 271 miles, 4.75-5.25 hours.

The fastest route is via Ridgecrest and the Panamint Valley. If you go that way, we suggest that you stop into Ballarat Ghost town on the way in.

You can take an a bit of extra time and go in via I15 through Baker and Death Valley Junction. That route allows you to detour down to Dante’s View .

You can even combine Death Valley with a road trip to Joshua Tree National Park . This is a routing that we recommend on our list of the top 20 scenic road trips in CA .

How Far is Death Valley from San Francisco?

SF to Death Valley : 502 miles, 7.5-8.5 hours.

The most reliable way is down I5 or Hwy 99 down to Tahachapi and then into the park via Ridgecrest. I prefer Highway 99 to I5 because there’s less truck traffic and you drive past some pretty orchards along the way. Check out our looping route between SF and Death Valley which has some interesting stops around Ridgecrest and the Central Valley.

The scenic way to get from San Francisco to Death Valley is west on Highway 120 through Yosemite/Tioga Pass to Highway 395. This route has amazing scenery. Make time for extra stops, or even better, add on extra days using our Highway 395 road trip itinerary.

This route requires a Yosemite entrance fee and it’s not open in the winter. The closure is usually from November to late-May, but check the Yosemite National park site for status.

How Far is Death Valley from Las Vegas?

Las Vegas to Death Valley : 111-142 miles, ~2 hours.

Las Vegas is actually the closest airport to Death Valley . There are several ways to do the routing. One takes you near Dantes View and the other comes in further north and goes past Rhyolite Ghost Town .

This guide for doing Death Valley as a day trip from Las Vegas , explains the options and offers key stops.

How Long is the Death Valley Road?

People Google this question but it’s a difficult one to answer because there are many roads in the park and none of them are called “Death Valley Road”.

That said, Highway 190 is the major northeast-to-southwest thoroughfare through Death Valley. It runs 187 miles from Olancha (south of Lone Pine) to Death Valley Junction.

Where is the Death Valley Entrance?

There is no single entrance into Death Valley, but there are three main entrances that most people use. The first is to come in from Highway 395 at Lone Pine. The second is to come up the Panamint Valley Road from Ridgecrest. The third enters west into the park from Death Valley Junction.

There are two less popular but scenic routes. There’s Highway 178 which goes north from Shoshone into Badwater Basin. The other takes the narrow high road on Immigrant Canyon Road, which goes over a 5,300 foot pass.

Is Driving in Death Valley Safe?

Yes. If you are worried about road conditions, all of the top sights listed here are accessible from paved roads. Some of the dirt roads are graded and accessible for normal passenger cars but others are only recommended for all 4×4 vehicles with clearance. The Park Service map has very clearly marked guidance on roads.

How Much Time do You Need for Death Valley?

Is one day enough for Death Valley? Not really. It’s the largest national park in the continental US and there is a LOT to do and see. That said, some of the most popular sights are centrally situated. With the help of our Death Valley day trip guide , you can see many of the highlights in one day if you don’t mind scurrying around.

Two days will allow you to visit Death Valley’s top sites with time for some longer hikes. Here’s our two-day itinerary .

And a three day Death Valley vacation will allow you to add in yet more hikes in the park.

Top Things to Do in Death Valley

There are so many cool things do to in Death Valley, it’s hard to figure out how to prioritize. We recommend doing a mix of scenic vistas, hikes and historic sites. That way, you’ll get a great sense of what the park is all about.

Mesquite Dunes at Dawn or Dusk

One of the best ways to get your awe inspired in Death Valley is to get up and out before dawn. The warm light against the orange sand is a beautiful wake-up call and this is a fantastic spot for an early morning photo shoot.

Badwater Basin

Badwater basin is the vast drainage aquifer for Death Valley, covering nearly 200 square miles of daunting salt flats. At -282 feet, it’s the lowest spot in the United States. It’s called “badwater” because a surveyor found that his mule wouldn’t drink the extremely salty water. You can visit anytime of day, but the valley is particularly beautiful at dusk, when the sun is setting over Telescope Peak to the west.

The Golden Canyon Gower Gulch Hike

The Golden Canyon trail in Death Valley is popular…and for good reason. While hiking you enter an ancient portal into Death Valley’s unique geology. You leave the flats of Badwater Basin behind and enter the canyon’s narrow runway, flanked by yellow and red rock formations and intriguing tentacles along Golden Canyon’s side shoots.

Most people just do the Golden Canyon hike but we recommend taking the time to add on the Gower Gulch loop. It will give you views of the Badwater Basin, Zabriskie Point geology and some of the colorful mineral deposits that characterize the area. Here’s our full guide for hiking Golden Canyon and Gower Gulch.

Artists Palette Drive

This scenic drive is located in the Badwater Basin, so you can add it on before or after doing the Golden Canyon hike or Badwater Basin viewpoint. The Artists Palette one-way, nine mile drive will take you through an amazing geologic rainbow. One option is to simply do the drive and get a quick view of the eye candy. But I recommend that you can stop at the multiple pull-outs along the way.

You’ll be rewarded if you get out of the car and hike closer to these multi-hued rock formations. The second pullout has particularly good access for getting into the colorful side canyons.

Zabriskie Point at Dawn

Zabriskie Point at dawn is a must see for your Death Valley trip. The point has generous folds of sandstone in the foreground with the Panamint Mountains as a backdrop. Dawn is pretty enough with the morning sun lighting up the Panamint mountains in pink, but things get really interesting about 20 minutes later when the sun rises a bit more and starts throwing shadows onto the sandstone canyon below. From there, you can head down into the canyon for the 2.7 mile Badlands Loop hike. Zabriskie Point is a short ten minute drive from Furnace Creek.

Ryolite Ghost Town

Technically, Rhyolite is just outside of the park boundary. But since mining was such an important part of Death Valley’s history, it’s worth visiting. Rhyolite’s crumbling infrastructure offers a great lesson on California’s unpredictable mining history. The town went from boom to bust in just 20 short years. On site, you can poke around the building ruins, old rail cars and a cool building make of soda bottles. You should also visit the nearby Goldwell Sculpture garden.

If you like dusty and abandoned spots, check out this guide to  California ghost towns . It includes a few others that are near Death Valley.

Dante’s View

Dante’s View is 25 miles southeast of Furnace Creek. At a height of 5,400 feet, you’ll get wide angle panoramic views of the Badwater Basin and the Panamint mountain range.

The other cool thing about Dante’s View is that it’s the same view that Luke, Obi Wan, C3PO and R2D2 had when they were headed into Mos Eisley. And if you are a Star Wars nerd, the Twenty Mule Team Drive, Golden Canyon, Desolation Canyon, Mesquite Dunes and Artist’s Drive were also filming locations.

May the force be with you.

If You Have Extra Time

Ubehebe crater.

The Ubehebe Crater is 58 miles north of Furnace Creek. Death Valley visitors who are in a hurry quite often don’t make the time for it, but I found the crater fascinating. This unique formation is a 600 foot deep inverted volcano. It was formed when gases and magma built up and then exploded all over the surrounding desert floor. The resulting geology has created layers of colorful and textured rock deposits. While there, you can circumnavigate the 1.5 mile rim and/or walk down to the bottom of the crater.

Harmony Borax Works

Borax is a compound used in many detergents and other household products. It’s not as sexy as gold, but during the late 1800’s it was a major part of Death Valley’s mining operations. The Harmony Borax Works offer a quick history lesson on Death Valley’s mining history. It’s located just a few minutes north of Furnace Creek.

20 Mule Team Road

This 2.5 mile one way dirt road takes a drive into the landscape below Zabriskie Point. The short drive takes you through an eroded spare landscape and there is a short .3 mile hike to a nearby overlook.

Sidewinder Canyon Hike

This hike isn’t as popular as Golden Canyon, but it’s quite rewarding for the patient hiker. It’s billed as a 4 mile out and back hike, and the attraction is exploring the four slot canyons that branch off of the main route. They are a revelation and reminiscent of Antelope Canyon in Arizona. Check out our Sidewinder Canyon hiking guide — it has practical tips for how to do the hike with some cool pics that will make you want to go now.

Mosaic Canyon

This 3.5 mile hike takes you through yet another slot canyon with quite a variety of rock textures. If you’re short on time, you can simply wander partway into the canyon and then head out for your next adventure.

Natural Bridge

This 2 mile out and back will take you to a lovely red rock arch. It’s located in Badwater Basin.

The Best Time to Visit Death Valley National Park

The short answer is February/March for pleasant temps and (maybe) wildflowers. Mid-October through December is also very pleasant. The long answer can be found in our when to visit Death Valley article . It includes a temp and precip chart, advice on how to visit in the hotter months and more detail about less busy months.

Whatever you do, try not to go during the summer. It’s often 115′ during July and August. That sort of heat will prevent you from being able to do much of the hiking and sightseeing on this Death Valley itinerary.

If you are visiting Death Valley as part of a larger trip, check out our season-by-season guide for CA to get more itinerary ideas.

Where to Stay on Your Death Valley Trip

There are 12 private and public campgrounds in Death Valley, disbursed across the 5,200 square miles of the National Park. Which campground you choose will be dependent upon whether you want to be in the thick of things or out in the hinterlands. Use our guide to all Death Valley campgrounds and find the right option for you. You can also book a glamping tent in Panamint Springs .

If you prefer a hotel stay, there are three hotels within the park. They range in quality and, frankly, none are a fabulous deal for the money. But if you aren’t camping, it’s worth staying at one of these three places because the nearest lodging outside of the park is 60 miles away. However, book early because during high season, these lodgings fill up fast.

We have a full hotel guide that also gives suggestions for more budget-friendly places to stay outside of the park.

• The  Inn at Death Valley  is a fancy historic inn, with lovely grounds and a nice restaurant. Check reviews and book with  Booking.com .
• The  Ranch at Death Valley  is a centrally located family-friendly place in Furnace Creek. Check reviews and book with  Booking.com .
• The  Stovepipe Wells Village Hotel  is a perfectly serviceable motel. They don’t have a lot of amenities, but there is a restaurant and small store onsite. Check reviews on  Trip Advisor .

Can you rent a cabin or Airbnb in Death Valley?

There are no cabins for rent in the park. And the closest Airbnbs to central Death Valley are in Pahrump, which is an hour from Furnace Creek. There are also a few listings in Shoshone, Beatty, Lone Pine and yet more in Ridgecrest.

Death Valley Travel Tips: Food, Gas & Cell Service

Is there cell service in death valley.

You’ll be tempted with a bar or two, but don’t expect much. And forget about it on the more remote areas of the park or while hiking in slot canyons.

So, cache or print this guide in advance of visiting. Use offline Google maps, Alltrails maps and pick-up paper maps and visitor guides in Furnace Creek (or print them in advance).

Where to Get Gas in Death Valley

There are three places within the park boundary to get gas: Panamint Springs (on the west side), Stovepipe Wells Village (north/central) and Furnace Creek (next to the Visitor’s Center). Keep your tank topped up, because they sometimes run out of gas. In addition, Furnace Creek is the only gas station in the park that sells diesel and premium fuels.

There are also gas stations in the towns along the major gateway roads into the park.

Where to Get Groceries in Death Valley

There is no proper grocery store in Death Valley. You can get snacks, treats and light grocery items like sandwich makings at the Panamint Springs store, Stovepipe Village and the Ranch at Furnace Creek.

Where to Eat in Death Valley

The Inn at Death Valley is the fancy hotel in the park. Their main restaurant has breakfast, lunch and dinner. Their dinner offerings are quite good and reservations are recommended. They also have a poolside cafe with sandwiches, wraps and the like.

The Ranch at Furnace Creek has The Ranch restaurant which offers breakfast and dinner. They also have the Last Kind Words Saloon which has a lovely wood bar and serves drinks, steaks, salads and burgers. The Coffee & Cream is open from 1-7p and has casual food, pizza, sandwiches and ice cream. The 19th Hole has burgers and a full bar (but it closes at 6pm).

Stovepipe Wells Village has the Toll Road which offers a breakfast buffet and a dinner menu. You can also eat in their Badwater Saloon .

I’ve eaten at all of these concession venues and can say that they’re fine but overpriced for the value. You’re a captive audience in Death Valley. So if you are on a budget, bring a cooler and pack as much of your own food as you can.

Death Valley Guided Tours

The National Park sometimes runs guided ranger tours or talks for Golden Canyon, Mesquite Dunes, Badwater and Harmony Borax Works. Check their calendar to see if anything is scheduled for your Death Valley visit.

If you are staying in Las Vegas, you can book onto one of several different Death Valley guided day tours. All of them are approximately 10 hours and will pick-up from Las Vegas hotels and Airbnbs. They are all ~$250 per person for the full day, which includes a guide, national park fee, lunch, snacks and water.

The tours differ by which stops they make and whether or not you can customize your options. Check out these four choices and click on the link to get more info, read reviews and book.

• The Death Valley Day Trip from Las Vegas : This is a basic “best-of” tour. It adds a stop for the Devil’s Golf Course and doesn’t go to Dante’s View.
• Small-Group Death Valley National Park Day Trip from Las Vegas : This tour does stop at Dante’s Peak and Pahrump, but it doesn’t go to the Mesquite Dunes.

What to Pack for Death Valley National Park

Bring an old school map . If you do nothing else, please consider getting an old school road atlas. I love the California Road and Recreation Atlas , which features secondary and tertiary roads, parks and camping spots. It’s perfect for going off the beaten path.

Bring double the water . This is the Mohave Desert after all and the hikes and vista points don’t have water. Bring a water bottle for on the go and stock the car with larger refillable bottles like this wide mouth gallon jug .

Bring a cooler full of food . Services are thin on the ground. Take a good sized cooler (like this Yeti ) that will keep cold in the heat and will hold a decent amount of lunch and snack items.

Pack layers . Just because it doesn’t rain (much) in Death Valley, doesn’t mean that there isn’t weather. On my most recent trip, I went through three layers just on the Golden Canyon hike.

Proper hiking pants . Yoga pants and gym shorts don’t cut it when you are hiking because you don’t want to be dropping your phone and keys all over Death Valley. Proper hiking pants or shorts with  zippered pockets  are a must. I love the hiking pants  from Kuhl and Columbia .

Proper hiking shoes . You don’t necessarily need heavy hiking boots for your Death Valley trip, but you should at least invest in some trail runners or light hikers. Flexible sole gym shoes aren’t good for gripping the rocky, gravely soil of Death Valley. We’ve put 1,000’s of miles on the  Hoka Speedgoat trail runners . They have strong foot cushioning and decent grip.

There’s your Death Valley travel guide. We’re hoping that it’s given you all of the practical information that you need for your trip. If you have any questions, be sure to find us on Facebook. Have fun and happy trails!

Explore More California National Parks

• If you are also got an equally thorough guide for visiting Joshua Tree National Park .
• Here’s a guide for visiting  Yosemite in the winter , how to  road trip it from San Francisco , and  what to pack  (whatever the season).
• North Coast  Redwoods road trip  with 9 stops, including Redwoods National Park.
• Our complete list of ALL  California national parks  (with map). And we have a similar one for all  California State Parks  too.
• Exploring national park sites in  San Francisco’s Presidio .

Share these Death Valley trip details with your friends on Pinterest:

Share with your friends

1 thought on “Your Death Valley Visitor Guide: Comprehensive Travel Tips”

I never considered Death Valley a worthy destination, but you’ve changed my mind. I truly love your writing style- thanks so much for sharing all the great tips!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

The app that turns your smartphone into an audio tour guide to Death Valley National Park

Just Ahead frees you from fumbling for maps or flipping through guidebooks. You simply drive as we guide you to all of the park’s many wonders.

Download on the App Store Download for Android

Written by National Geographic and Outside Magazine Author Bob Howells

Tour Content Covers More Than 300 Miles of Death Valley Roads & Hundreds Of Destinations

Approved by the National Park Service and the Death Valley Natural History Association

Death Valley National Park

Biggest, Hottest, Lowest, Driest

If you have a passion for beautiful places and wide open spaces, Death Valley National Park is on your list of must-see national treasures.

Beautiful to behold. Awesome to explore. But it’s huge and challenging. It’s the largest national park in the lower 48 states. It has more than 300 miles of paved roads and hundreds more miles of dirt roads. What to see? What not to miss? How do you make the most of your time in this sprawling desert-and-mountain park? With Just Ahead!

Sample a few of the hundreds of stories that play automatically as you drive through Death Valley:

• Death Valley Intro
• Dante's View
• Salt Creek Pupfish

Our GPS-guided smartphone audio tour of Death Valley National Park guides you to the natural wonders and historic sites that make the 3.4-million-acre park such a spectacular place to visit. With the Just Ahead app loaded onto your smartphone, you get:

A narrated tour of the park as you travel through two major valleys and multiple mountain ranges. It doesn’t matter where you enter or which direction you drive. It even works offline, with no Internet access.

Hours of audio stories that play as you drive through the park at your own pace. We tell you about Death Valley’s rough-and-tumble heyday of mining, the quirky characters drawn to its secluded setting, the park’s wildlife, its Native American history, and its dramatically exposed geology.

The stories behind its superlatives:

• HOTTEST temperature ever recorded on Earth
• LOWEST place in North America
• DRIEST place in North America

Insider tips on side trips, day hikes (a waterfall in the middle of the park!), jaw-dropping vistas, narrow canyons to explore, mining ruins, movie settings, places to camp, and places to stay

Park highlights and some of our personal favorite sights, including:

Badwater, lowest place in North America • Salt Creek, home of the tiny pupfish • Scotty’s Castle • Ubehebe Crater • The Charcoal Kilns • Eureka Mine • Harmony Borax Works • Furnace Creek • Stovepipe Wells • Mesquite Flats Sand Dunes • Zabriskie Point • Dante’s View • 20 Mule Team Canyon • Golden Canyon and the Red Cathedral • Artists Palette • Mars Hill, Site of NASA Training Missions

Plus turn-by-turn directions to and through the park!

Exhaustively researched, constantly updated. We’ve done the work so you can make the most of your precious vacation time. Simply listen, enjoy, explore…

No need to thumb madly through maps and guidebooks or wonder what you just missed. Just Ahead informs you, entertains you, and gives you an experience of the park you’d never have on your own.

Download on the App Store Download for Android Free Trial

• Work With Me

Home » Blog » Ultimate Guide to Death Valley National Park

Ultimate Guide to Death Valley National Park

Death Valley is one of the most underrated national parks in my opinion! There park is so diverse that even on your second or third visit you will easily find new things to do. Located in the Mojave Desert of California, Death Valley is famous for its rugged landscapes, extreme temperatures, and unique natural sights.

It’s known to be one of the hottest and driest places on earth and for many Death Valley has truly lived up to its name… but don’t let that fool you! There is so much beauty within the park and it truly is a bucket list destination. In this blog post, I am going to share everything you need to know to plan your own visit!

Disclaimer : This blog post is in collaboration with  Backcountry.com and features some affiliate links. This means I get a small commission if you make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). Use code RENEE15 to get 15% off your first Backcountry order (some exclusions apply). You can also learn more about my affiliate policy  here . Thank you for the support!

Given Death Valley is a whopping 5,270 mi², there are a lot of areas to explore and numerous things to consider when planning your trip. I wouldn’t say it’s the kind of park you want to just show and wing it. The reason being is that phone service is very limited within Death Valley and WiFi isn’t easy to come by. It’s best to know at least the basics of where you are going and where you plan to stay the night BEFORE you arrive at the park. The following guide will cover all that and more.

Before we jump into it, I would like to acknowledge the traditional landowners of this area, the Timbisha Shoshone People. Please be respectful of their land and consider your impact when visiting. I implore you to always follow Leave No Trace Principles and follow all local rules and regulations.

How To Get To Death Valley

Death Valley is located in the United States in a remote part of south-eastern California. The park also slightly stretches into western Nevada. Death Valley National Park can be accessed by the following means:

Car is the most common way visitors access Death Valley National Park. Most people will drive from Los Angeles and enter the park through the west entrance (4.5-hour drive to Furnace Creek), or from Las Vegas and enter the park through the east entrance (2.5-hour drive to Furnace Creek). A unique way to travel to and around Death Valley National Park is by renting a camper van. We have done two van trips through the park, once with our own van and once with Travellers Autobarn .

The closest commercial airport to Death Valley National Park is McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas (130 miles away). The second closest major airport is Los Angeles International Airport (270 miles away). There are also a few smaller airport options, including Inyokern County Airport (70 miles away), Furnace Creek Airport (inside the park), and Stovepipe Wells Airport (inside the park). I believe the two airports inside the park are options for private planes only. Use Skyscanner to compare flights from multiple airports and find the best option for you. If flying into one of these airports, you would need to rent a car and drive to the park, or take a guided tour that includes transportation.

When To Visit Death Valley

The best time to visit Death Valley National Park is from October through April when temperatures are more moderate. Outside of these months, Death Valley can be extremely hot, and the summer months can be downright dangerous. Temperatures in July average a high of 103 degrees, and people have died of heat exposure due to lack of water and shade. As someone who doesn’t like hiking in very hot weather, I completely avoid the park in summer and recommend you do the same.

Where To Stay In Death Valley

There are quite a few options for lodging within the park, and where you stay will depend on what areas you plan to explore when visiting Death Valley. For most visitors, I recommend Furnace Creek for your lodging as it is closest to most of the main sight-seeing areas. With that being said, once you figure out what you want to see within the park you should plan ahead to avoid long and unnecessary drives (it’s a huge park!).

Stay Inside The Park

The Ranch at Death Valley – This is the more basic and affordable lodging option in the Furnace Creek area. It features a restaurant, general store, café, pool, golf course, basketball court, tennis court, and a playground for the kids. The Inn at Death Valley – This is the most luxurious lodging option in the whole park. It is centrally located in the Furnace Creek area, and has it’s own restaurant, spring fed pool, exercise room, tennis court, spa, and sauna. Stovepipe Wells Village – Located half an hour west of Furnace Creek, Stovepipe Wells Village is another good lodging option in the park and is right by the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. It’s basic, but has all the necessities as well as has a restaurant, saloon, pool, general store, and campground. Panamint Springs Resort – Panamint Springs is 1 hour drive west of Furnace Creek, and a good base for adventures on the western side of the park. It has a variety of room and cabin options, a campground, a restaurant, bar, and general store. Campgrounds – The National Park also runs a bunch of campgrounds within the park. Most of these are seasonal (October 15 – May 15) due to the brutal summer heat, so check opening times before your visit. The most popular are Furnace Creek Campground Furnace Creek Campground (the only one that takes reservations), Sunset Campground (also at Furnace Creek) and Stovepipe Wells Campground , and Texas Springs Campground (just outside Furnace Creek). Book your campground via The Dyrt and use my code reneeroaming for a free 30 day trial.

Stay Outside The Park

Your other option is to stay outside the park, though I honestly wouldn’t recommend it for most visitors. Death Valley is a huge park, and driving in and out of the park each day would not be enjoyable. With that being said, in the case that Furnace Creek lodgings are booked out, I’ve linked a couple of nearby options below that are only about 30 minutes away from the Furnace Creek Visitor Center:

• Amargosa Opera House & Hotel
• Longstreet Inn & Casino

Van life In Death Valley

For those staying in a campervan, RV, or the back of a car, Death Valley has a few options. You can stay at one of the campgrounds within the park, as mentioned above. Alternatively, there are also a couple of BLM (Bureau of Land Management) free camping areas just outside the park for those who don’t mind roughing it. We have stayed at this spot in the past and found the location fairly convenient. Remember that you cannot stay the night at trailheads within the park.

Best Things To Do In Death Valley

Death Valley National Park has such a wide variety of landscapes to keep visitors busy during their stay. Although the dry and barren appearance of Death Valley may look pretty one-dimensional at a glance, there are so many unique areas to explore once you know where to look!

The following recommendations are for all types of visitors, including solo travelers, couples, families, and groups. You can tailor each adventure to suit your fitness level and schedule. I would say that Death Valley is a very child-friendly national park as long as you’re following the recommended safety precautions and staying within your capabilities.

Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes

Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes may be my favorite area in the park. I have visited a handful of times now, and every time I’m here I am blown away by the beauty of the landscape. I recommend visiting during the early hours of the morning, or late hours of the afternoon as the low sun creates gorgeous shadows and shapes on the dunes. The further you walk out, the less footprints you will see, and you should be able to find your own little area of the dunes without anyone around. Although it’s not easy walking on the dunes, the juice is worth the squeeze!

Artist Palette and Artist Palette Drive

This is one of the most unique areas in the park. Artist Palette Drive takes you off the main road and down a one-way, 9 mile long scenic drive through mountains and canyons. Some of these are covered in unique shades of blue, pink, and purple, hence the name “Artist Palette”. You can stop along the drive in multiple spots to get out, take in the views and stretch your legs. Near the end of the drive is the main “Artist Palette” area, which you can view from the parking lot, or by taking a walk amongst the hills.

Badwater Basin

Badwater Basin is one of the most popular sights in the park. This is the lowest point in the whole of North America, 86m/282 feet below sea level! This area can be explored by parking at the Badwater Basin parking lot, and then walking down onto the salt flats. It’s roughly a 15 minute walk out to where the salt flats really open up and you start to find the amazing textures and shapes the area is known for. Another amazing thing about the area is Telescope Peak (look to your west) is over 11,000 feet (3,500m) above you. The closeness of the vertical relief here is like no where else in America.

Zabriskie Point

Another of my favorite spots in the park, Zabriskie Point is one of the most famous views in the park. There is a short walk from the parking lot to an overlook which gives you a panoramic view over colorful badlands, distant mountains, and the salt flats in the valley way below. If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s a trail down into the Badlands Loop Trail which will take you on a loop through the many gullies and hills of the area. You can make this as long as you want by choosing to connect it with Golden Canyon and/or Gower Gulch . I’ve gone into more detail on that below.

Golden Canyon and Gower Gulch

Golden Canyon is one of the best hikes in the park, and it’s great because it can be connected with a couple of other trails to make it as long or short as you like. You can choose to go up Golden Canyon to the impressive Red Cathedral and back, which is roughly 3 miles total. Be prepared for some fun and easy scrambling up some 3-4 ledges where necessary. Another option is to go up Golden Canyon, then down Gower Gulch which is an awesome loop hike and just under 5 miles (7.5km). Lastly, the longest option is to go up Golden Canyon, around Badlands Loop, and down Gower Gulch, making a 7.8 mile (12.6km) loop through some absolutely gorgeous hills, canyons and gullies. Here is a map to help you better visualize the different options.

Dante’s View

Dante’s Peak is an overlook at the edge of the Black Mountains that provides an epic vista of the southern half of Death Valley National Park. Sitting at 5,450 feet (1750m), it is one of the best and most accessible high mountain lookouts in all of California. From the parking lot, you can take a short 1000 foot walk to a better viewing point to the south. Alternatively, you can do the half mile walk/scramble to the top of Dante’s Peak to the north. Both of these will provide even better views and separate you from the crowds at the parking lot. I highly recommend trying to catch a sunrise or sunset up here, the final light fading from the surrounding peaks is amazing! Pro tip: This is one of the only spots in the park you will get decent LTE coverage, at least for Verizon.

Natural Bridge Canyon

This is a short 2 mile roundtrip hike will take you up into Natural Bridge Canyon and give you a brief history on the geological history of Death Valley National Park. Natural Arch itself was really cool to see, and you can continue past it to see the dry waterfall, a remnant from where a stream used to flow through the canyon thousands of years ago.

Death Valley is one of the best national parks for dark skies and stargazing. This is because the area has relatively low light pollution, especially when the moon isn’t out. I recommend visiting places like Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Zabriskie Point, and Badwater Basin for epic night skies.

There are different tours you can take if you prefer to stay in Las Vegas and join a guided tour into Death Valley. This one covers night and day so you can see the endless stars at night, or this one is a wine tour in the Pahrump Valley as well as a guided tour of Death Valley, it also ends with stargazing in the valley.

Other Things To Do

If you are staying in the park for a while and have some extra time, there are some other areas to consider visiting, including:

• Ubehebe crater
• Racetrack Playa
• Devil s Golf Course
• Scotty’s Castle
• Visit a ghost town

Getting Around The Park

To enter Death Valley National Park you will either need to purchase a $30, 7 day vehicle pass, or $55 annual pass. Alternatively, you can enter on your annual America the Beautiful Pass, or purchase one at the entrance station for $80 which will cover 12 months of entrance fees into any National Park in the US.

To explore the park you will need to have your own vehicle. There is no public transportation into, or around Death Valley National Park. People have died on remote roads in Death Valley during summer months after breaking down and lacking shade and water, so carry extra h2o if passing through in the summer months. Fill up a  water bladder  and pack an  emergency kit , compass  and radio in case you get lost. One main highway (SR-190) will take you through the park between the most popular east and west entrances, though you will also take Badwater Road to a few of the park’s most popular locations. There are many dirt roads spread around the park that take you to lesser known spots, though some require 4×4 and high clearance.

How To Stay Safe In Death Valley

Death Valley National Park can be a brutal and extreme place, especially in the summer months when temperatures can reach well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Year-round can see high winds and winter can bring below-freezing temperatures in higher parts of the park. Here are some tips to avoid unnecessary and dangerous situations in the park:

• The National Park Service recommends drinking one gallon of water per day while in the park, especially in warmer months.
• Avoid hiking altogether in the summer months.
• If you start to feel dizzy, nauseous, or get a headache, get out of the sun immediately and seek shade.
• Avoid lesser traveled dirt roads during summer. If you break down, it may be a long time before help comes and exposure can kill you fast.
• Carry extra water in your vehicle in the case of an emergency.
• Be wary of rattlesnakes, scorpions, and black widow spiders that inhabit the park. Do not put your hands where you cannot see them.
• Always bring a navigation device with you while hiking, especially when off-trail. Maps and/or GPS devices could save your life. Download the Gaia app to save maps while out of service, use my promo code Renee42 for 20% off premium memberships.

What To Bring

How to pack for your trip to Death Valley National Park will depend on a few factors. These include what time of year you are visiting, what activities you plan to do, and whether or not you are car camping. For those car camping, I recommend checking out my car camping essentials and packing checklist . For anyone planning to hike, reading my blog post about what to wear hiking will be a good starting place.

Now for some things to bring that are specific to Death Valley. Seeing as I do not recommend visiting in summer, I am going to share items you should pack for a shoulder-season or winter visit. Be sure to adjust this list to your own needs and the activities you have planned.

I personally purchase all of my outdoor gear from Backcountry  because I love their wide selection of brands, fast shipping options, loyalty program, and 24/7 Gearhead advice. Use code RENEE15 to get 15% off your first online order!

Essentials To Bring To Death Valley:

An absolute essential for Death Valley! Recommended sun hat .

Water Bottle :

You can fill up water at the Visitor Center, and/or pack in your own (suggested). Recommended water bottle .

Water Jug :

I highly suggest bringing your own water reservoir. Recommended water jug .

Functional and lightweight is best, and I recommend choosing something with a hip strap. Recommended day backpack .

Hiking Shoes :

Lightweight is best, but whatever you already own will be sufficient. Check out my blog post on the best hiking shoes .

Hiking Socks :

Merino wool is ideal for its breathable and moisture wicking nature. Recommended hiking socks .

Sweat Wicking Shirts :

Merino wool is my favorite material because it stays odor-free. Choose long sleeves if you want extra sun protection. Recommended shirts .

Mid Layer :

This could be a fleece sweater or something like a flannel shirt. Recommended fleece sweater .

Lightweight Insulated Jacket :

Something packable and lightweight for cool mornings and evenings. Recommended insulated jacket .

Leggings or Hiking Pants :

I personally prefer hiking leggings, especially those with pockets! Recommended hiking leggings .

Hiking Shorts :

For warm mid-day hikes. Recommended hiking shorts .

Sports Bra :

Merino wool is great for minimizing odors. Recommended sports bra .

Wicking Underwear :

Again, merino wool blends are best. Recommended underwear .

In case you hike before sunrise or after sunset. Recommended rechargeable headlamp .

First Aid Kit :

Small and lightweight first aid kit with blister plasters and other essentials. Recommended first aid kit .

SPOT Device :

If you plan to spend a lot of time in the backcountry. Recommended model .

Sunglasses :

It is sunny almost every single day in Death Valley! Consider polarized sunglasses as they offer better protection. Recommended sunglasses .

Sunscreen :

A must-have for Death Valley, year-round.

Snacks/food :

For hiking and in between meals.

The dry climate will have you reaching for this!

Portable Charger :

Keep your phone charged if you’re adventuring all day! Recommended portable charger .

Camera Gear :

If you’re interested, I have a whole blog post on what camera gear I use .

Phone + Maps :

Download Gaia on your phone for offline hiking maps.

ID + Wallet :

And any other personal essentials.

Death Valley is one of those national parks where I would suggest over-packing rather than under-packing. There aren’t stores to buy outdoor gear, and even places to eat can be limited. Be prepared and pack extra snacks, water, and outfits. For more information about preparing for your getaway, check out my guide to planning a national parks trip .

Nearby Places To Explore

During your trip to Death Valley National Park, I would highly recommend taking time to visit some nearby areas. Some of my top reommendations include:

• Alabama Hills
• Mammoth Lakes
• Sequoia National Park
• Kings Canyon National Park
• Yosemite National Park
• Valley of Fire State Park

PIN For Later Planning

Related guides.

How To Visit Katmai National Park – A Comprehensive Park Guide

Best Things To Do In White Sands National Park: Epic 1 Day Itinerary

Discovering the Best Things To Do in Punta Gorda: Florida’s Hidden Gem

Join our mailing list for exclusive resources, events, and more.

Thank you for subscribing!

This was SUCH a helpful overview of what Death Valley is all about and simple understandable summaries of the places to visit within. Thank you!!

I am looking for a guide for our 30 person group on Dec 10th (all day). Would you be willing to be our guide ?

Wow this is awesome and helpful, thank you so much. I am heading to the USA in 4 weeks and will definitely follow your recommendations, this is golden 🙂 Unfortunately it is during the time you did not recommend but after reading through your activities I want to try even then!!

Your guide couldn’t have come at a more perfect time! I usually turn to your Ultimate Guides for all of my National Parks adventures. I’m local to California and planning to drive out and camp at Death Valley soon, and your guide (as usual) was most helpful! The photos are beautiful, and thanks for all the helpful info!

I’ve never visited Death Valley but I’m definitely adding it to the to do list. Your photos are stunning and so much helpful info. Thanks Renee.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Follow Along on Instagram

SELF GUIDED AUDIO TOURS HAWAII

• Blue Ridge Parkway
• Great Smoky Mountains
• New River Gorge
• Petrified Forest
• Grand Canyon
• Tucson Day Trips
• Horseshoe Bend + Page, AZ
• Joshua Tree
• Death Valley
• Rocky Mountain
• Big Cypress National Preserve Tour
• Everglades National Park Tour
• Overseas Highway & Florida Keys Tour
• Cuyahoga Valley
• Las Vegas Day Trips
• Mount Rainier
• White Sands
• Zion National Park Tour
• US Route 89: Heritage Highway Tour
• Bryce Canyon National Park Tour
• Scenic Byway 12 Tour
• Capitol Reef National Park
• Goblin Valley State Park Tour
• Canyonlands
• Yellowstone
• Grand Teton
• HOW IT WORKS
• All Destinations
• Pacific Northwest
• Yellowstone & Teton
• What's New
• Partner with Us

Your tours are connected to your Email/Google play account

Use the same account for both our website and app

Already have an account? Log In.

You can also Checkout as guest and miss all the fun!

Don't have an account? Sign up.

Email address

Create an account

Already have an account? Log in

Confirm password

Use 8 or more characters with a mix of letters, numbers & symbols

Type the email you used to create the account.

Check your email and follow link for restore password

Shopping Cart

Add gift message (free).

Receive directions via email for how to redeem your purchase.

• Death Valley National Park Tour

About The Tour

Death Valley is one of America’s most evocative national parks, with desolate desert landscapes, dramatic mountain ranges, and of course, the lowest point in North America. Let Shaka Guide lead the way! We take you to many of the park’s most fascinating and awe-inspiring places. Plus, we’ll discover some surprising references to popular culture. You don’t know what you don’t know about Death Valley! Here are just a few of the fun things you can do on the Death Valley National Park Tour! • Take in views of Badwater Basin at Dante’s View • Walk along of field of sand dunes at Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes • Watch the sunrise, or set, at Zabriskie Point All Shaka Guide tours come with customer support and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Tours never expire.

Sample Tour Audio

Death valley introduction east, geology of death valley, sunsets and dark skies, preview audio.

Zabriskie Point

Dante's View

Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes

Badwater Basin

Artists Palette

Harmony Borax Works

Stovepipe Wells

Furnace Creek Visitor Center

Wildrose Charcoal Kilns

          One of the most iconic views in the park, noted for its film history and its role as the album cover for U2's Joshua Tree. The walk from the parking lot to the overlook is short and paved but steep.   

    Our favorite view in the park! Though there are trails leading away from the parking lot, there's no need to stray from the overlook over 5,000 feet above Death Valley, with the Panamint Range beyond. From the overlook, if you look to the right, you may recognize the establishing shot of dodgy spaceport Mos Eisley from Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope. This is also a popular place to view the sunset, though you may want to plan ahead and come early to guarantee a parking spot.      

    Though there are no official trails, you're welcome to wander into the sand dunes here. Sunsets are especially spectacular. And, this is yet another filming location for Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope. Standing at the parking lot and facing the sand dunes, you may recognize the mountains to your right as the backdrop behind droid R2-D2, as he separates from C-3PO after crash landing into the dunes in an escape pod.   

  The lowest point in North America, and the highlight of a trip to Death Valley. There's a boardwalk by the parking lot, but you're welcome to wander into the valley on the Badwater Basin trail.

  A colorful cliff, with different minerals present, distinguishes itself from the surrounding brown desert. You can enjoy the cliffs from the parking area, or explore by foot. George Lucas filmed a quick shot of R2-D2 lost in the desert here. To find the spot, go down into the canyon from the parking area, turn left, walk about 30-40 paces, then turn around and face where you walked from.

  Explore what's left of the earliest mining operation in Death Valley. Placards throughout the short path interpret the various buildings and mechanisms required to process borax. You'll also see one of the wagons pulled by the famed 20-mule teams.

Stovepipe Wells is a way-station in the northern part of the park.      There's restrooms, lodging, a restaurant and saloon, gas station and even a gift shop with typical souvenirs, apparel, and snacks.

  A must-stop for information, flush toilets, a water refill station, and a museum with excellent displays on the natural and human history of Death Valley. Be sure to watch the 20-minute film narrated by actor Donald Sutherland, and to get a picture next to the gigantic thermometer displaying the day's temperature. If you didn't purchase a park pass at the entrance station, you can do so here. Open 8am-5pm daily.

These kilns were built in 1877 and owned by the Modock Consolidated Mining Company, but they only saw a few years of action. They haven’t been used for a long time, but if you take a peek inside and inhale, some say you can still smell the soot!  If n ature calls, there's a restroom right next to the kilns.

Purchase Bundle & Save

California driving tour bundle, $29.99 $59.98 50% off.

• Joshua Tree National Park Tour
• Yosemite National Park Tour
• Lake Tahoe Driving Tour

3 Steps to Buy & Redeem:

Add to Cart & Checkout

Create account during checkout, download app & login.

Gifting Options Available

Customer Reviews

Get this app.

My husband and I agreed within the first 5 min of using the app that it was awesome. We would have missed so many beautiful spots without this app! It’s the best way to tour the island of Kauai and learn more about where you are visiting. I will be buying for the other islands we are visiting - worth every penny and more!

Worth it!! Buy it!

I was skeptical… was pretty certain I was just throwing $20 at the window. But we purchased the classic Hannah road trip. It was worth every second I was with my husband and 318-year-old boys and all of us enjoyed it. Great information make sure you download it before you leave because you will lose cell service but it did a great job of keeping up with where we were on the road as well as giving us lots of great history and tips

I've been using the Shaka Guide since September 2018. Always excellent and reliable

Why is Death Valley so hot?

Death Valley's extreme heat is due to a combination of factors. Its low elevation, below-sea-level basin shape, and surrounding mountains create a phenomenon known as a "rain shadow." This means the mountains block moisture from reaching t...

Where is Death Valley located?

Death Valley is located in eastern California and parts of Nevada in the United States. It's situated within the Mojave Desert and is known for its harsh climate, extreme temperatures, and unique geological features. It’s about two hours f...

What to do in Death Valley?

Despite its unique conditions, Death Valley offers a range of unique experiences. Exploring Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, is a must! You can also walk along a field of sand dunes at Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes and watch t...

What is an Audio Tour Guide?

Think of us as your personal tour guide in an app. Our tours provide everything a guided tour does, but with the freedom to explore on your terms. Here’s how it works:

• GPS triggers audio narration to play automatically as you drive or walk.
• Listen to stories, get local insights, visit must-see stops and get turn-by-turn navigation.
• GPS triggers audio narration to play automatically as you drive or walk. Listen to stories, get local insights, visit must-see stops and get turn-by-turn navigation.
• The app works offline so even with spotty service we’ll get you where you need to go.

Pretty cool huh? We think so! Check out our tours and let’s explore together.

Where does the Death Valley National Park Tour go?

   This tour has 19 stops. Check out the itinerary here for a complete list of stops and if you’re looking for more information to help plan your trip, here’s what you need to know before you go! 

What should I pack for the Death Valley National Park Tour?

• Phone charger/mount (very important!)
• Hiking clothes
• Hiking shoes
• Jacket for higher elevations
• Hat/sunglasses
• Canteen/ refillable water bottle
• Credit card

What should I budget for the Death Valley National Park Tour?

  Costs will depend on what you do along the tour route, but here are some fees: 

• $30 entry fee per vehicle, good for 7 days.
• $15-40 per person per meal. And don't forget to buy jugs of water!
• Souvenirs at the park’s general stores

What are the hours of operation for the stops on the Death Valley National Park Tour?

 The park is open 24/7, so you can start or end your tour at any time. Plan to stay out late for some spectacular stargazing! Please note the visitor center closes at 5:00 p.m. 

Can I join the Death Valley National Park Tour en route?

 Yes! Feel free to join the tour along the route. Just make sure that you follow the numbers in chronological order from where you are starting from. If you don’t begin at one of the tour starting points you’ll miss a few stories, but you’ll still have a great experience. 

Can I take the Death Valley National Park Tour in the opposite direction?

 This tour is available in two directions - westbound and eastbound. 

Other Questions? Contact us!

​​Still have questions? Send us an email at [email protected] or give us a call at (808) 201-8138.   

You Might Also Like

— OR — Purchase Collection & Save

Download the shaka guide app, get the shaka guide app.

Join Our Newsletter!

We won't spam you! We’ll send you information about new tour releases, trip planning, and awesome stories.

• Redeem Password

Death Valley Tour: Self-Guided Drive

Desert's melody, written by time.

Tour Details

Upgrade to Bundles & Save

10 Self-Guided Driving Tours from Las Vegas SAVE WITH BUNDLES $155.90 $49.99

25+ National Park Tours: Self-Guided Driving Bundle SAVE WITH BUNDLES $459.96 $84.99

American Southwest Tours Bundle: Self-Guided Drive(27+ Tours) SAVE WITH BUNDLES $505.00 $84.99

California Tours Bundle: Self-Guided Drive(14+ Tours) SAVE WITH BUNDLES $274.83 $49.99

Action+ Annual Unlimited Subscription of 160+ Tours for $99.99 SAVE WITH BUNDLES $99.99

Nevada National Parks & Hoover Dam Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle SAVE WITH BUNDLES $84.94 $29.99

Welcome to the death valley tour.

Experience the harsh beauty of a land like no other: Death Valley. Famed for its record-breaking temperatures, this valley also serves some sizzling scenery, from sprawling salt flats to rainbow-colored badlands and soaring mountain ranges. 

This self-guided driving tour shows you the best spots in the park and fills you in on this area’s rich history. Follow in the footsteps of Gold Rush miners and hear their stories as you explore this bizarre, unforgettable valley.

About the Tour

Your journey will begin at Death Valley Junction, just a short way outside the park.

As you drive, you’ll get acquainted with some basic facts about safety in such an extreme climate. You’ll also hear about the unfortunate miners who gave this place its ominous name.

Soon, you’ll have the opportunity to take a detour to Dante’s View, offering incredible vistas from 5,000 feet above the valley’s lowest point. Past that, you’ll come to an iconic scenic drive at Twenty Mule Team Canyon, which shows off some of the area’s strange and beautiful badlands.

Next is Zabriskie Point, a phenomenal place to watch the sunrise or start a badland hike. Then it’s on to the oasis of Furnace Creek, where the valley’s hottest-ever temperature was recorded.

After a stop at the visitor center, you’ll head down Badwater Road, where you’ll find the Golden Canyon Trail, one of the park’s most popular hikes. Beyond that is the strange and captivating landscape of Artist’s Drive, home to brilliantly colorful rock formations that look like they’ve been splattered with paint!

Then you’ll see Devil’s Golf Course, a seemingly endless field of craggy salt crystals which pop under the heat of the Death Valley sun. Next, you’ll pass the Natural Bridge Trail, offering a look at a rocky bridge formed by erosion.

Finally, you’ll arrive at Badwater Basin. This isn’t just the lowest elevation point in North America; it’s also where you can walk across Death Valley’s famous salt flats! Your Death Valley tour concludes here.

Upgrade and Save:

Upgrade now with our bundles and enjoy greater savings on your purchase.

• American Southwest Bundle: Save 83% and get 30+ Tours. Explore the Southwest for just $84.99.
• Nevada National Parks & Hoover Dam: Enjoy self-guided driving tours of National Parks and Hoover Dam for $29.99 per car and save 65%.
• Tour of California: Explore 14+ self-guided driving tours for just $49.99 per car and save 82%. 
• 25+ National Parks Bundle: At $84.99, access 25+ National Parks and save 80% on the total value.
• 10 Tours from Las Vegas : Drive to 10+ national parks close to Vegas. Get the bundle for $49.99 and save 65%.

Want all of our tours? Upgrade to Action+ :

• An annual $99.99/year subscription offers access to over 150+ tours.
• Unlimited use throughout the year.
• Includes free access to new tours as they are released.

Death Valley Tour Map

Where to start?

Tour Start Addresses:

From Death Valley Junction: Link

From Towne Pass, California: Link

From Death Valley Furnace Creek: Link

How does it work?

• Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
• Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours.
• To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
• The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route & speed limit for the best experience.
• Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.

What You'll See

Your tour of Death Valley can begin near any of the park's entrances.

Timbisha Shoshone

Get to know some of the earliest residents of Death Valley, including how they survived such a harsh climate.

Hear how the discovery of gold in California changed Death Valley forever.

The Death Valley 49ers

Dig into the harrowing tale of the Death Valley 49ers, who crossed this landscape in search of riches.

Lost in Death Valley

Continue following the story of the 49ers on their struggle to survive.

Stranded 49ers

Discover how the 49ers' difficult journey finally came to an end.

Why Is It So Dry?

Find out what makes Death Valley such a parched, arid landscape.

Why Is It So Hot?

Learn the science behind why Death Valley is the hottest place on Earth.

Safety Reminders

Get a few essential tips for staying safe during your visit to this extreme location.

Hear about the unlikely mineral that overtook gold as the number one Death Valley export.

Native American Music

Listen to a recreation of some music from the tribes who once lived around this region.

Dante's View

Take in sweeping vistas from a viewpoint which towers 5,000 feet above the basin below.

Superblooms

Learn about the rare phenomenon which turns Death Valley into a vibrant, blooming oasis.

Pete Aguereberry

Get a glimpse into the life of one particular miner who came to Death Valley seeking his fortune.

Twenty Mule Teams

Discover the significance of the twenty mule team to the history of the valley.

Twenty Mule Team Canyon

Take a scenic drive through striking badlands formations and find out what famous movie they were featured in!

Find out just how profitable borax mining was back in the day.

Zabriskie Point

Stop at perhaps the most famous viewpoint in the whole valley and find out how the landscape itself formed.

Christian Brevoort Zabriskie

Dig into the story of a borax baron who ruled over Death Valley with an iron fist.

A Thirsty Oasis

Uncover the secret behind the bizarre presence of a golf course within Death Valley.

Furnace Creek Visitor Center

Snap a selfie by the famous Furnace Creek thermometer and show it off to your friends and family!

Collision and Separation

Discover how tectonic plates helped to form the varied landscape of Death Valley.

Golden Canyon and Red Cathedral Trail

Hike a pair of popular trails through stunning, multi-colored badlands.

Booms and Busts

Learn what became of most of the mining operations in Death Valley as time went on.

Ghost Towns

Hear more about the waning days of the Death Valley mining industry.

Grab a few photos of this hill which seems to belong on another planet.

A "Zabriskie" Gamble

Find out what mining baron Zabriskie did as the industry where he'd made his fortune collapsed around him.

Artist's Drive

Cruise through brilliantly colorful badlands and learn how they get their vibrant hues.

Artist's Palette

Pause by a particularly bright and colorful patch of badlands that looks like it's painted!

Building Death Valley

Learn how Death Valley went from a mining hotspot to a national park.

Devil's Golf Course

Take a detour to a fascinating field of salt crystals that pop and hiss in the heat.

Natural Bridge Trail

Hike to a natural bridge, one of the rarest geological formations in the world.

A Legacy to Be Proud Of

Hear about the legacy left behind by Zabriskie, the borax baron.

Death Valley Today

Get a quick look at how Death Valley has grown and changed in the modern day.

Badwater Basin

Your tour concludes at Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America.

Preview The Tour

  why is it called death valley.

While there’s no official record corroborating it, the most popular explanation is that the name came from the 49er pioneers who had just crossed the valley at great cost. Supposedly, as they finally left the valley behind, one man turned and said “Goodbye, Death Valley,” thus giving the area its name.

  What are some general facts about Death Valley National Park?

Death Valley really is the hottest place on earth, at least as far as surface temperatures go. It’s also the driest place in North America. Despite this, the Timbisha Shoshone people actually lived here hundreds of years ago!

  Is Death Valley a safe place to visit in the summer?

Death Valley is perfectly safe to visit during the summer as long as you take proper precautions! Always bring more water than you think you need, make sure your car’s A/C is functioning properly, and don’t embark on any long hikes. If you keep all this in mind, you’ve got nothing to worry about!

  Can you bring your pet to Death Valley?

While pets are allowed in all developed areas of the park, like roads and overlooks, they are not allowed on trails. That includes popular trails like the Salt Flats!

  How much does it cost to get into Death Valley National Park?

The standard $30 per vehicle pass gets you into Death Valley for 7 days, but if you plan to visit other national parks this year, you should definitely opt for the $80 American the Beautiful pass. It’s good for 12 months and gets you into any national park in the country!

  Is Death Valley really the hottest place on Earth?

What you’ve heard is true: Death Valley really IS the hottest place on Earth! In 1913, the Furnace Creek thermometer measured an air temperature of a sweltering 134 degrees fahrenheit, the highest ever recorded.

  What’s the best place to go near Death Valley National Park?

If you want to expand your trip beyond Death Valley itself, you can always visit Las Vegas! It’s only a couple hours away and offers plenty of lively activities to break up your national park exploration.

   In Death Valley, what kinds of animals can we see?

Despite its harsh climate, there are actually animals in Death Valley! Everything from jackrabbits to desert bighorn sheep and even mountain lions can be found in the valley!

  Does life exist in Death Valley?

Contrary to what you might expect, life is actually quite plentiful in Death Valley , including all manner of mammals, reptiles, and insects. There’s also a thriving micro ecosystem known as the “cryptobiotic crust,” which means “hidden life”!

  What is the weather like in Death Valley?

As you might expect, the weather in Death Valley is HOT, especially during the summer. During the cooler months, however, the valley becomes quite temperate, and can even get chilly at night! Rain is rare, so you probably won’t need to pack an umbrella!

  Is 1 day enough for Death Valley?

While it’s possible to visit Death Valley in one day, it’s recommended to spend more time to fully explore and appreciate the park’s diverse landscapes and attractions. To see everything the park has to offer, plan for at least 2-3 days.

  Do cell phones work in Death Valley?

Cell phone coverage in Death Valley can be limited due to its remote location. While some areas may have reception, there are also areas with no signal. It’s a good idea to check with your service provider and plan accordingly.

  What is the Coldest Month in Death Valley?

The coldest month in Death Valley is typically December. While the park is known for its extreme heat, temperatures can drop significantly during the winter months, especially at night. Read more here .

Inclusions and Exclusions

Inclusions:.

• App on your phone: A link to download the Action Tour Guide App and Password for your tours.
• Flexible schedule: Use any day, any time. Travel over multiple days or on your next trip within 1 year of your purchase.
• Easy to use: Stories play automatically by GPS. Hands-free. Get HELP all day: Call, Chat, or Email.
• At your own pace: No group. Take breaks for photos/ snacks/hikes. Go at your own pace.
• Offline use: No cell signal or wifi required. Offline GPS Map & route. Stop-to-stop direction.
• Don’t miss a thing: Full itinerary, travel tips, professionally narrated videos, text, and hidden gems.

Exclusions:

• Transportation, parking fees, food, and drinks.
• Entry tickets or reservations to any attractions along the route.
• Car Rental: Please arrange a rental car at the closest airport or train station.

Nearby Tours

Sending login info,please wait...

Sending info,please wait...

Sending register info,please wait...

All tours are valid for a lifetime. Buy now, travel whenever—coupon code on the next screen. Subscribe to our newsletter below.

Know about new tour launches, get exclusive access to sales and much more. Subscribe to our newsletter below—coupon code on the next screen. 

Death Valley Tour Guide

There is just so much to see and do:

• World-class Geology
• Abundance of old Mines
• Breathtaking desert landscape
• Hiking trails and 4WD roads of all levels
• Ghost towns & their Wild West history
• Unique desert Plants and Animals

Let our Virtual Tour Guide take you to the awe-inspiring Death Valley!

This comprehensive Virtual Tour Guide has:

• Over 1500 color photographs
• Over 150 detailed maps
• 22 Road Trips

New Chapters in 2018:

• 20 Mule Canyon Hike
• Salt Creek Trail
• Zabriskie Point
• 15 Points of Interest
• Chapters on Geology, History, Plants and Animals

Updated Chapters in 2018:

• Ash Meadows
• Badwater Road
• Desolation Canyon
• Furnace Creek
• Salt Creek Hills

Take a tour of Death Valley

Purchase a guide.

Before purchasing the Death Valley guide, decide whether you would like a CD (own the guide) or a subscription (lasts 6 months).  Learn more about these two options on the Our Guides page.

CD Disc Guidelines

Subscription guidelines, flash drive guidelines.

• In 2010, postage (US Postal) was $2.00 – postage costs have been increasing significantly

Picture of Death Valley CD

Places covered in the guide by name:, overview video of death valley.

Any Questions?

Death Valley National Park Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour

• Engaging storytelling: Uncover unique tales and thrilling history for a memorable journey!
• Perfect narrator: nothing can beat listening to a great voice. Proven with tons of rave reviews!
• Comprehensive route and stops: See it all, miss nothing, leave no stone unturned!
• Offline maps: no signal, no problem! Works perfectly without cellular or wifi.
• Hands-free: audio stories play on their own based on your location. Easy to use!
• Go at your own pace: Start anytime, pause anywhere, enjoy breaks for snacks and photos freely!
• Great value: purchase per car, not per person. More affordable than bus or guided tours!
• Easy-to-use app: download Action’s Tour Guide App onto your phone
• Attraction passes, entry tickets, or reservations
• Option 1 Death Valley Junction, CA 92328, USA After booking the tour, search your email for the phrase "Set up your self-guided tour now." Follow these instructions NOW to finish setting up the tour while you have Wi-Fi/data. Do NOT wait until you are onsite.
• Option 2 Towne Pass (4,956 ft), State Highway 190, Death Valley, CA 92328, USA
• Option 3 R4J9+H9 Beatty, NV, USA
• Badwater Basin, California, USA
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• How to access: Once you book a tour, you’ll get a confirmation email and an instructions email. Follow the instructions right away: • Download the app • Enter the password • Download the tour • MUST DO while in strong wifi/cellular
• How to start the tour: Once onsite, open the Action's Tour Guide App: • If there is just one tour, launch it. • If there are multiple tour versions, launch the one with your planned starting point and direction. • Go to the starting point. (Note: no one will meet you at the start. This tour is self-guided). • The audio will begin automatically at the starting point. If you face audio issues, visit the FAQ. • Stick to the tour route & speed limit for the best experience.
• Amazing savings: • Driving Tours: Save money by purchasing a single tour for the entire vehicle, avoiding individual fees per person like on a bus tour. Connect your phone to the car speakers to share the audio.
• Flexibility and Convenience: • Use the tour app anytime, on any day, and over multiple days. There's no expiration, making it perfect for revisiting on future trips. • Start and pause the tour at your leisure, accommodating breaks and side excursions without the pressure of keeping up with a group.
• Comprehensive Tour Experience: •The app provides a full itinerary, travel tips, narrated audio stories, scripts, images, videos, and recommendations for additional activities. • Enjoy a private experience without the crowds, ideal for personalized stops and photo opportunities.
• Ease of Use and Accessibility: • The app is hands-free and activates stories via GPS, offering support through call, chat, or email. • There is no need for a continuous cell or Wi-Fi connection as the GPS map works offline.
• Memorable Keepsakes: • Utilize the app’s images to create a photo book or share on social media, ensuring you have high-quality, crowd-free memories from your trip.
• Preparation: • After booking, download the app and the tour using a strong Wi-Fi connection. • Review the tour at home before your trip for a better experience.
• Starting the Tour: • Open the app upon arrival at your destination. • Select the appropriate tour based on your starting point. • Head to the starting location; the audio will begin automatically. • Follow the suggested route and adhere to the speed limit for an optimal experience. • By following these instructions and taking advantage of the app's features, users can enjoy a personalized, flexible, and in-depth exploration of their destination at their own pace and convenience.
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Dante's View

Similar experiences

• You’ll have 3 starting options See departure details
• 1 Death Valley Junction Stop: 5 minutes See details
• 2 Borax Stop: 5 minutes See details Pass by Dante's View Twenty Mule Team Canyon Zabriskie Point Furnace Creek Visitor Center Golden Canyon
• 3 Mars Hill Stop: 5 minutes See details Pass by Artist's Drive Artists Palette Devil's Golf Course
• 4 Natural Bridge Trail Stop: 5 minutes See details
• 5 Badwater Basin Stop: 5 minutes See details
• You'll end at Badwater Basin Badwater Basin, California, USA See address & details

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Death Valley National Park Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour provided by Adventures with Action

• United States

Best Death Valley Tours from Las Vegas – Full Guide with Map

It’s hot, it’s dry, and it’s home to the lowest elevation point in the country – still, the best Death Valley tours from Las Vegas manage to prove that this sinisterly named slice of Nevada and California isn’t just a desolate wasteland.

In reality, the hottest place on Earth is an awe-inspiring landscape of ancient rock formations, sparkling salt flats and colorful canyons, peppered with ghost towns and abandoned mines from the gold rush era.

Since most outdoor adventure-seeking Las Vegas visitors venture east (toward Zion, Bryce and the Grand Canyon), it leaves Death Valley to fly under the radar. And with activities like stargazing, dune bashing, hiking, and lookouts of places like the Kaleidoscopic Cliffs, it’s safe to say this sprawling national park deserves a spot on your itinerary of things to do in Las Vegas .

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• Death Valley tours from Las Vegas

How to get to Death Valley from Las Vegas?

Stretching for some 3.4 million acres across the Mojave Desert, and straddling the border of California and Nevada, Death Valley National Park might be massive — in fact, it’s the largest U.S. National Park outside Alaska — but it remains rather remote and isolated.

Being such a stark contrast from Las Vegas’s ritzy casinos, Death Valley is basically baron, with minimal infrastructure with the exception of a few campgrounds and visitor centers. Therefore, planning ahead is crucial when it comes to your 120-mile trip in between Sin City and the park.

So how do you get there? There are a few options available, each with their own pros and cons:

The most popular way to get from Las Vegas to Death Valley is by car. The drive takes around 2 – 3 hours depending on which part of the park you want to reach, and which route you take. To get there is relatively easy, with three roughly equidistant options to choose from.

For the first option, simply take US-95 northwest from Vegas and follow it until you reach Nevada Highway 373. From there, it’s a straight shot to Death Valley National Park, and you’ll pass by the old Rhyolite ghost town and the Death Valley National Park Sign.

The second option heads out of Sin City on Highway 160 and takes you through the town of Pahrump en route to Death Valley Junction, Zabriskie Point and the Harmony Borax Works.

Finally, the third route enters Death Valley from the south, connecting with Badwater and the salt flats via a longer, winding road. To get here, take Highway 160 to Pahrump but then turn left onto Highway 178 which will connect with Badwater Road.

While driving is generally convenient and gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, it’s imperative to bring extra water and supplies, and try to avoid driving through Death Valley during the hottest months of July and August.

By organized tour

Since Death Valley has its risks – heat, size, remoteness – the best way to visit for many (especially for first-timers) is through an organized tour. Not only do these tours take care of all the logistics for you (the driving, the activities, the planning), but they also provide experienced guides who have extensive knowledge of Death Valley’s history, landscapes, and animals – so you’re bound to learn a thing or two by day’s end as well.

Take your pick from short and sweet day trips that focus on sightseeing, adventure-tailored tours that incorporate activities like dune bashing and off-roading, or even overnight camping trips that allow you to experience Death Valley’s breathtaking night sky in all its glory.

If you’ve got time up your sleeve, some of the best Death Valley tours from Las Vegas span 3 or 4 days, combining wine tastings with ghost town visits, and the chance to check out Yosemite National Park and San Francisco.

And of course, if you’re looking for luxury, VIP-style private tours are on the menu too. With a variety of tour companies to choose from, it’s easy to find one that suits your budget and interests.

Is camping allowed in Death Valley National Park?

Generally speaking, yes, camping is allowed in Death Valley National Park. However, there are certain restrictions depending on the location and the time of year.

In total, there are 12 different campgrounds spread throughout all corners of the park, with a range of facilities on site to make your stay a little more comfortable.

Some campgrounds are open year-round, while others are only open during certain seasons due to extreme temperatures — the Furnace Creek Campground, for instance, which sits close to the Harmony Borax Works, is the only campground open in summer.

The majority of the public campsites are free and first-come, first-served, but there are a few other options (some privately owned) that require a small fee, such as the Fiddlers’ Campground, the Sunset Campground, and the Texas Spring Campground (to name a few).

Since each campsite has slightly different rules and amenities (i.e. hookups for RVs), it’s best to double-check out the park’s official website before you make the trek.

If you prefer to go full adventure mode and ditch the campsites altogether, there are also some backcountry camping options available. However, permits are required for these and they can only be obtained in person at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center or the Stovepipe Wells Ranger Station.

A handful of the best Death Valley Tours from Las Vegas do include overnight stays. If you go down this route you won’t have to worry about planning your own trip, transport or camping equipment since the tour company will sort all of that out for you.

How much does the entrance ticket to Death Valley cost?

You have a few different options on the menu when buying tickets for Death Valley National Park.

If you’re planning on visiting the park multiple times in a year, then purchasing an annual pass would be your best bet. This will cost US$55 and grants access for one vehicle plus all passengers to Death Valley.

Alternatively, if you want to see more of the American National Parks, then purchasing an Interagency ‘America the Beautiful Pass’ for US$80 will get you into the likes of the Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce Canyon, Yosemite, Yellowstone, Arches, and dozens more revered national parks over the course of a year. This option is only US$20 for seniors and is free for active and past military and 4th graders as well.

If you prefer to keep things simple, a standard Death Valley entrance ticket is also available. These are valid for 7 days and are priced at US$30 per vehicle, US$25 per motorbike, or US$15 per person if traveling by foot or push bike.

The pricing structure is different for commercial vehicles, costing up to US$75 for commercial cars and vans and up to US$200 for 26+ seat buses. If you’re taking a guided tour, the entrance fee is always included in the package.

Pinching pennies? On 5 days throughout the year, Death Valley National Park invites anyone to visit free of charge. These usually include Martin Luther King Jr. Day (January 16), the First Day of National Park Week (April 22), the day of The Great American Outdoors Act (August 4), National Public Lands Day (September 23) and Veteran’s Day (November 11).

How to choose the best Death Valley tour from Las Vegas?

When it comes to picking the perfect Death Valley adventure, you have a bounty of choices.

But what defines the so-called best Death Valley tours from Las Vegas really depends on your individual tastes and priorities. If you’re someone who spares no expense and wants to see everything the park has to offer in VIP style, then splurging on a private tour with all the bells and whistles may be your best bet.

On the flip side, if you’re more budget-conscious and prefer to meet more fellow travelers,  affordable group tours are a dime a dozen as well.

Then, of course, you’ve got the combo options — tours that not only check off the quintessential Death Valley sites, but also explore surrounding areas like Yosemite, San Francisco and the Rhyolite ghost town. With these takes, you’re getting a few bucket-list-worthy experiences all wrapped into one.

Throw in a few extra options that include winery excursions, Jeep safaris and photography exhibitions, and you can see that there’s certainly no shortage of options.

With that in mind, let’s dive into each of the different Death Valley tours in a little more detail to help you pick the perfect adventure.

What is the classic Death Valley tour itinerary?

The majority of the best Death Valley tours from Las Vegas follow a similar schedule – the “classic” tour, so to speak. And while each tour company will put its own little spin on the day, the itinerary and main attractions you’ll visit are pretty consistent.

Lasting between 10 and 11 hours, the exciting day all starts with convenient hotel pickup. Whether you’re staying on the Strip or in downtown Las Vegas, the tour bus will typically come by bright and early (before 7 am – even as early as 4.30 am between May and September to beat the heat*) and you’ll be on your way out of Sin City before most people have even had their first cup of coffee.

After a couple of hours of driving through the Mojave Desert, you’ll arrive at your first stop — usually the old Rhyolite ghost town. From there, you’ll get to snap a quick pick in front of the Welcome to Death Valley sign before continuing on to the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes.

A stop at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center usually comes next, after which you’ll make your way down (literally) to the Badwater Basin Salt Flats – famous for being the lowest point in North America at a remarkable 282 feet below sea level.

Depending on your particular tour, you’ll usually either head along Artist’s Drive – a scenic 9-mile route through colorful canyons  – to Artist’s Palette or check out Zabriskie Point where stunning views of the Mars-like landscapes await – a quintessential Death Valley photo op if there ever was one.

As the journey carries on into the afternoon, you’ll likely head to Dante’s View, another top-notch vista that looks out over the badlands and the southern half of the park.

If you stick around after dark then stargazing might also be on the agenda. If not, you’ll leave Death Valley in the early evening, getting back to Las Vegas after a possible stop in Pahrump on the way home to stretch your legs.

*If you book a day trip that includes stargazing, it’s possible you might start much later – anywhere between 8 am and 2 pm depending on the day.

Death Valley day trips from Las Vegas

Since Death Valley is only a two-hour drive from town, it’s easy to squeeze into a day trip, leaving more time in your back pocket to check out all the other best national parks near Las Vegas.

The majority of the Death Valley single-day tours follow the “Classic” itinerary — you’ll start at the Rhyolite ghost town, then onto Furnace Creek and the salt flats. You’ll have time to bash around at the Mesquite Flat sand dunes, witness sights like Artist’s Palette, Zabriskie Point and Death Valley Junction (infamous for its stargazing) before heading back to Sin City after dark.

That said, if you’re looking for something a little bit out of the ordinary, there are a few more options to consider. For early birds, the Death Valley Sunrise & Stargazing Day Tour (well, technically a night tour) shows off the park’s otherworldly landscapes in the cool, quiet hours of the morning. Under the moonlight, you’ll spend a couple of hours stargazing before witnessing the colors change as the sun rises. And the best part? You won’t be battling against the scorching heat.

Alternatively, you can sign up for something like the Las Vegas Death Valley premium tour , which not only shows off the quintessential classics, but also dedicates some time to walking along the Salt Creek boardwalk, checking out the 19th-century Harmony Borax Works historic mining site, and popping into the Area 51 Alien Center.

Death Valley jeep tours from Las Vegas

Tailored to adventurers and travelers who like to journey off the beaten path, jeep tours are all about experiencing the raw, unfiltered Death Valley — one of desolate backcountry roads, abandoned mining camps and stunning viewpoints.

Similar to the traditional Death Valley single-day getaway, these tours start with convenient pick-up from your Las Vegas hotel in the morning (usually 7 am in the case of Pink Jeep Tours), make their way up to the Area 51 Alien Center and the Goldwell Open Air Museum, and then wind through some of the park’s must-sees: the Borax Works Historic Mining site, Zabriskie Point, Badwater Basin, and the Artist’s Palette, to name a few.

However, what sets Jeep tours apart is their flexibility. With a smaller group size and a knowledgeable guide behind the wheel, you’ll have more time to venture deeper into the park and explore the lesser-known areas. Plus, you’ll have plenty of opportunities for breathtaking photos – and the tour guide is always happy to act as your professional photographer.

Factor in an included picnic lunch, the big windows from the custom-made Tour Trekker Jeep, and time to wander along the Salt Creek Boardwalk and learn about the endangered Desert Pupfish, and you’ve got yourself an immersive, unforgettable Death Valley experience.

• jeep tours from Las Vegas

Death Valley stargazing tours from Las Vegas

By day, contiguous America’s largest national park is a vast and arid, yet surprisingly diverse landscape of sand dunes, salt flats, canyons and mountains. It’s hot, it’s dry, and it looks like something taken straight out of a sci-fi movie (especially at The Racetrack, where the rocks mysteriously move on their own).

But by night, Death Valley transforms into one of the best places for stargazing in the world. With next to zero light pollution, clear desert skies most nights of the year and low humidity levels, it’s a prime location for staring at the stars and constellations above.

And contrary to the first-thought image most visitors conjure up, Death Valley isn’t just flat – it boasts several valleys and mountain peaks, each of which serves up different vantage points to appreciate the twinkling night sky.

Death Valley stargazing tours from Las Vegas typically work in one of two ways: Either you’ll depart from Sin City a little later so that you can stay in the desert after sundown (when the constellation show begins), or you’ll leave in the wee hours of the morning to stargaze before the sun comes up, and then add on a few quintessential sightseeing stops thereafter.

Whichever option takes your fancy, thanks to certified guides who not only know the ins and outs of the park, but are also experts in astronomy, you’re bound to walk away having learned something new.

Consider this: If you’re looking for something a little on the fancier side, consider the Death Valley Sightseeing and Stargazing Photography Tour with VIP Wine Tasting . As the name suggests, you’ll be treated to a stop at a local winery (usually the Pahrump Valley Winery) – the cherry on top of an already fantastic day out. Keep reading to learn more…

• Death Valley stargazing tours

Death Valley wine-tasting tours from Las Vegas

Adding a touch of sophistication to the typical Death Valley day trip, these highbrow tours not only show off the postcard-worthy landscapes this National Park is known for — places like Badwater Basin, the colorful Artist’s Palette and the Zabriskie Point lookout — but they drizzle on some local culture with a lovely stop at a Nevada winery.

Capped at just 12 people, meaning that you’ll get a more personalized experience compared to the traditional busload of tourists, this tour picks you up from your Vegas hotel and then heads straight up Highway 160 to the Pahrump Valley Winery.

Here, you’ll have the chance to sample a delicious variety of reds, whites and sweet dessert wines as you soak up the scenery in a picnic-style setting. The winemakers will walk you through the wine-making process, from soil to bottle, giving you a deeper appreciation of the art, and you can even purchase a bottle or two to take home as a souvenir.

After a glass (or three) or Nevada’s finest, you’ll hightail your way over to the National Park where you can expect a combination of exploring and photo-ops, hearing plenty of stories and tidbits from your friendly tour guide along the way.

The day is usually capped off with an enchanting stargazing session, after which you’re taken on the scenic route back to your Las Vegas hotel.

Quick tip: If you do decide to book one of these tours, make sure to do so in advance. With only a dozen spots available per tour, these experiences tend to sell out quickly.

• Death Valley wine-tasting tours

Death Valley & Rhyolite Ghost Town day trip from Las Vegas

Before Nevada became known worldwide for its ritzy casinos, lavish hotels and bustling nightlife, it was the epicenter of the Wild West — a place where cowboys roamed free and gold was king. Showing off a slightly different side of the state, this tour takes you back in time to the days of the Gold Rush, exploring Death Valley and the historic Rhyolite Ghost Town through a more historical lens.

You’ll start your journey by heading out in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle in the morning, making your way through the stunning desert landscape towards Death Valley via Pahrump. Just before you get to the park’s entrance — “Hell’s Gate”, as it’s widely known — you’ll stop into Rhyolite. In the early 1900s, this city was one of many gold rush-era boomtowns. Fast forward to today and it’s nothing but a collection of old buildings, half-standing ruins and deserted streets — the perfect precursor to what lies ahead in desolate Death Valley.

After about an hour for photo ops and history lessons, your guide will take you into the heart of the Valley, where you’ll get to see the rolling Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, colorful Artist’s Drive, Badwater Basin, and the 19th-century Harmony Borax Works which played a huge role in shaping the early history of Death Valley.

Given its affordability and combination of history and sightseeing, this option sells itself as one of the best Death Valley Tours from Las Vegas.

• Death Valley & Rhyolite tours

Death Valley 4-day trips from Las Vegas

Want to see as much of this part of the country as possible? And not just the big, famous cities? If you’ve got some more time up your sleeve, the multi-day trips from Las Vegas that combine Death Valley with a handful of other equally stunning locations are definitely worth considering.

On the one hand, you’re getting a much better bang for your buck — these trips take in the very best of Nevada and California, following a cleverly put-together route that saves you from doing multiple single-day trips from different cities. On the other, you’re getting a much more varied and enriching experience compared to the cookie-cutter Death Valley day trip.

Despite having a handful of companies to choose from, when it comes to Death Valley 4-day trips, you’ve essentially got two very different yet equally fantastic options.

The first (and the most popular) is an adventure that hits up Death Valley on day 1, Yosemite National Park (via the stunning Tioga Pass) or days 2 and 3, and then finishes up in the City by the Bay –  San Francisco – with an in-depth city tour. Since this is a one-way trip, you’ll save money on a potential airfare from Vegas to San Fran as well. And with highlights including Bridalveil Falls, El Capitan, the Golden Gate Bridge and, of course, Death Valley, it’s an experience that few others could hope to match.

Or, you can choose the second option – a 4-day Death Valley hiking and camping trip that stays within the confines of the park for an epic 96 hours of pure adventure. Sure, you’ll get to see the most famous spots like Zabriskie Point, Dante’s View and the Salt Flats, but you’ll also traverse trails like Golden Canyon, Gower Gulch, the Amargosa Range and the Wildrose Peak climb — perfect for adventurous types that love to get off-the-beaten-path.

All up, you’ll hike at least 22 miles worth of trails, allowing you to see areas of the park that only one in a million tourists get to experience. All of your meals are included, and camping under the stars each night; well, that’s just the icing on the cake.

• Death Valley 4-day trips
• Death Valley private tours

The fundamental appeal of Death Valley is its remoteness. When you’re out in the middle of nowhere – be that the lowest elevation point in North America, or one of the viewpoints that look out over the empty, desolate and foreboding landscape – you get a sense that this is truly unspoiled, wild America.

But if you’re experiencing all of this rugged, untouched wilderness surrounded by 40 other snap-happy tourists, it kind of defeats the purpose, doesn’t it? That’s why some people opt for private tours of Death Valley instead.

Limited to just you and your group (friends, family, bachelor party buddies, whatever), private tours are all about personalized, intimate experiences. While the tours do have an itinerary, you have the flexibility to make adjustments here and there, whether that’s staying longer at a certain spot or skipping some places altogether to go hiking instead.

While the single-day private Death Valley adventure is justifiably popular, making its way to places like Golden Canyon, the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes and Dante’s View, it’s not the only option. If you’ve got more time up your sleeve, the Private 4-Day Death Valley and Yosemite Tour from Las Vegas is a non-stop highlight reel certainly worth considering.

Like all Las Vegas private tours , you get the added benefit of having your very own guide (AKA private photographer) the whole way through. They’ll be on hand to answer any questions, point out hidden gems and of course, capture all your Insta-worthy moments.

And while they might be more expensive at face value, in reality, private tours can be relatively comparable with small group tours. Since they’re usually charged per group, not per person, the more people in your group, the cheaper it will be for everyone.

What will you see in Death Valley?

The uneducated answer is “not much – there’s nothing there,” or “it’s just a desert.” But these couldn’t be further from the truth.

In reality, Death Valley National Park is full of diverse landscapes and incredible geological structures that have been shaped by millions of years of natural forces.

From the lowest point in North America at Badwater Basin to the towering peaks of the Panamint Mountains, there is so much to see and explore in Death Valley. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the top-rated things to do in Death Valley.

Badwater Basin

Officially the lowest point in North America, Badwater Basin is an eerily beautiful, very rare landscape that sits at 282 feet below sea level. Guaranteeing incredible photos, the salt flats here tessellate spectacularly, and you can wander across them as far as the eye can see.

Zabriskie Point

Of all the lookouts in the park, Zabriskie Point is probably the most famous – and for good reason. Sitting just south of Furnace Creek it serves up spectacular views of Artist’s Palette. The waves of deep canyons and the colorful pastel-hued rocks aren’t something you’d see in any other national park.

Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes

When people think desert, they think of rolling dunes of sand. And that’s exactly what you’ll find at Mesquite Flat. These ever-changing, wind-sculpted dunes are perfect for a quick hike or an off-road adventure. If you’re coming up through the Rhyolite Ghost Town entrance, you’ll usually stop here first before heading south toward Badwater.

Dante’s View

While not as popular as Zabriskie Point, Dante’s View is equally picturesque. From here, at about 5,000 feet above sea level, you’re treated to sweeping vistas of the Badwater Basin. If you’re up for a challenge, you can tackle the 8-mile round-trip journey to Mt. Perry – although this isn’t included in any day tours.

Artist’s Drive

Considered the best scenic road trip in Death Valley, the Artist’s Drive is a nine mile detour off of Badwater Road that takes you through the most colorful landscapes in the park. About halfway along the drive, you’ll come across the famed Artists Palette, a dramatic section known for its multi-colored rocks. Words simply can’t do it justice.

While not technically in Death Valley National Park, the ghost town of Rhyolite is right next to the Hell’s Gate entrance — so if you’re coming in from the northeast, it’s impossible to miss. Once a bustling gold rush town, it’s now one of the most photographed ghost towns in Nevada thanks to its abandoned buildings and eerie, Wild West feel.

Is one day in Death Valley enough?

Yes, a day in Death Valley can definitely be enough to see some of the highlights and get a feel for the park. You’ll be able to check out the Badwater Basin, admire the Artist’s Palette, and take in the sand dunes over at Mesquite Flat.

However, with over 3 million acres of land to explore, the reality is that you’ll only scratch the surface in just one day. If possible, it’s recommended to spend at least two days in Death Valley to truly appreciate its diversity. If you have the opportunity to stay overnight to witness the unobstructed starry sky, or even take a multi-day tour that ticks off Yosemite, go for it!

That being said, most of the best Death Valley Tours from Las Vegas are only 11-12 hours long.

How much does a Death Valley tour from Las Vegas cost?

Prices for Death Valley tours from Las Vegas vary pretty substantially depending on the tour company, the length of the tour, and whether you decide to combine it with places like Yosemite.

For the most basic day trips, expect to pay between US$180 and US$290 per person. Generally, the cheaper end of the spectrum will be with a larger group, while smaller group sizes typically come with a small premium.

More niche excursions, such as the VIP wine-tasting plus Death Valley sightseeing and stargazing tour cost around US$285 per person, while the Tour Trekker Jeep adventure costs about US$295 each.

Private tours, understandably, cost a lot more, with prices ranging from US$1100 to US$1,350 depending on the length of the tour and group size. The caveat here is that these prices are generally per group, not per person**, so if you have a larger group, it may actually be a more cost-effective option (or, at least, not that much more expensive) to book a private tour.

Multi-day tours tend to cost roughly US$950 if you go for the camping option, or US$1,395 if you prefer a bougier lodge setup.

How to book Death Valley tours from Las Vegas?

The most important thing to know about booking Death Valley trips is to do so BEFORE you actually arrive in Las Vegas. The earlier the better, because you don’t want to be stuck with limited options or overpriced tours if you only have a few days to play with.

If you’re planning a trip in advance, it’s best to book online through reputable tour companies. But rather than spend hours in the weeds of different websites, use something like the TourScanner search engine instead. Designed to make your trip as hassle-free as possible, the search engine shows off a wide range of tours, compares all of prices and discounts, and even lets you read reviews of previous visitors, giving you a much better idea of what to expect before you book.

Plus, the majority of the tours shown on TourScanner offer free cancellation up to a day before the tour begins, so there’s no need to worry about unexpected changes in your plans.

• compare Death Valley tours

Death Valley’s opening hours

Being a National Park, Death Valley is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. The Visitor Center, which is located in Furnace Creek, is also open daily from 8 am to 5 pm.

While the park itself doesn’t close, some facilities and areas do have seasonal closures, especially in the summertime when temperatures can exceed 120°F (48°C).

With that in mind, it’s always important to check the park’s website for the most up-to-date information before planning your trip. On that note, if you plan on camping, only one of the 12  campgrounds is open year-round (Furnace Creek Campground). The rest have specific opening and closing dates, so make sure to check those as well before heading out.

When is the best time to visit Death Valley?

Most of the Southwest’s coveted national parks around Utah and Arizona are best visited in the summertime, known for getting snow during their winters. Death Valley, on the other hand, is different. With a reputation as one of the hottest places on Earth, winter is actually the best time to take on this adventure.

In the winter, temperatures tend to stay below 80°F (26°C), making it a much more comfortable experience compared to June through September. Winter also welcomes a handful of extra activities, such as daily ranger-led programs.

The downside of visiting in the peak of winter is that the days are slightly shorter. Unless you plan on stargazing, a tour in spring or fall would be ideal for avoiding the crowds and still enjoying bearable (read: certainly warm) temperatures.

Travel tips

• Let’s not beat around the bush. Even outside of summer, Death Valley is HOT. So, dress appropriately, bring a hat, sunblock, and sunglasses, and make sure to bring extra water. Most tours will have near-unlimited water on hand, however, you can never be too cautious
• Due to the size and remoteness of the park, cell phone service can be pretty hit-and-miss, so make sure to download an offline map or go old-school with a physical one on hand.
• Some phones struggle on days of extreme heat, so bringing a portable charger might save your skin if something goes wrong.
• Given the infamous risks of Death Valley, it’s highly recommended for first-time visitors to take a guided tour instead of attempting to explore on their own. Not only will you have an experienced guide leading the way, but you’ll also learn a lot more about the park’s history, nature and wildlife this way.
• Last but not least, make sure to book your tour online and in advance. This way, you can lock in the best price on your preferred day, and not have to worry about planning it all out yourself when you touch down in Sin City.