Death Valley National Park is a land of extremes, blistering heat, otherworldly landscapes, and some of the darkest skies in the U.S. This guide covers the best things to see, do, and prepare for, so you can enjoy the park safely and make the most of...
Sections
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Things to Do & How to Do Them
Tips, Gear & The 10 Essentials for Your Visit
Things to Do & How to Do Them
From salt flats to starry skies, Death Valley is packed with one-of-a-kind experiences. This section highlights the best places to explore, along with tips on when and how to visit each one so you can see the park at its most breathtaking.
Walk on the lowest point in North America. Best early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat. HIKING NOT ADVISED AFTER 10AM IN THE SUMMER!
Take the 9-mile loop and stop for photos of the rainbow hills.
Artists Palette
Sweeping views of the valley from above. Best for sunrise or sunset.
Dantes View
Short, scenic trail through golden rock walls.
Golden Canyon
Easy hike to a massive natural rock arch.
Natural Bridge
Enjoy the magic of parks after dark with a night hike and stargazing at Natural Bridges National Monument.
Natural Bridges National Monument
Sharp salt formations that look like coral reefs on land. No Golf Clubs needed!
Check Out Devils Golf Course
Historic site with old wagons and interpretive signs.
Harmony Borax Works - Death Valley National Park
See mysterious “sailing stones” that move across the dry lakebed. Requires a high-clearance vehicle!
The Racetrack - Death Valley National Park
Bring Water! Challenging summit with cooler temps and panoramic views.
Telescope Peak - Death Valley National Park
Hike the rim of this massive volcanic crater.
Ubehebe Crater - Death Valley National Park
Tallest dunes in California; listen for “singing sand.”
Eureka Dunes - Death Valley National Park
Visit during rare super bloom years for fields of color.
Wildflowers - Death Valley National Park (Spring)
Bring a star map or app for one of the darkest skies in the U.S.
Night Exploration - Death Valley National Park
Get maps, ranger advice, and check weather conditions.
Visit the Furnace Creek Visitor Center
Abandoned gold rush town just outside the park.
Rhyolite Ghost Town - Death Valley National Park
Preserved beehive-shaped kilns from the 1800s.
Wildrose Charcoal Kilns (U.S. National Park Service)
Boardwalk over a rare desert stream with tiny pupfish.
Salt Creek
Smooth, polished marble walls with narrow passages.
Mosaic Canyon - Death Valley National Park
Tips, Gear & The 10 Essentials for Your Visit
Death Valley’s stunning beauty comes with serious challenges, intense heat, unpredictable weather, and remote locations with little to no cell service. This section covers the practical side of your adventure, including safety tips, desert travel adv...
These are the Ten Essentials you need to Bring with you!
Ten Essentials
The Suunto MCB NH mirror compass is an ergonomic multipurpose mirror compass that combines precision with practicality. Plus, it floats.
MCB NH Mirror Compass
Learn How to Use a Compass
How to Use a Compass: Compass/Map Navigation
This is a must have!
Sun Bum SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion
Take the PD35 v3.0 anywhere with a steel pocket clip that can be attached to backpacks, belts, and MOLLE systems for easy access, or use the included holster or lanyard for everyday carry.
Fenix PD35 v3.0 Tactical Flashlight 1700L
Be ready if the need arises.
Pac-Kit Watertight Explorer 2 First Aid Kit
Waterproof and Ready when you need a fire.
UCO Stormproof Matches
You don't need one until you do!
MOSSY OAK 21-in-1 Stainless Steel Multitool
Take some energy with you.
CLIF BAR Variety Pack 6 Flavors 16 Bars
You will need water. It is called Death Valley for a reason
Unigear Tactical Hydration Pack 3L Bladder
Lightweight and perfect for hikes
Night Cat Lightweight Waterproof Backpacking Tent 1-2 Persons
