Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is located on the eastern foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It is very large and is known as the largest national park in the 48 contiguous states. It is also the driest and hottest area in the world.
The northern part of Death Valley is sparsely populated and lacks public facilities. Death Valley is famous for its walking rocks, a phenomenon whose cause remains unknown. Driving along a seemingly endless stretch of road, you'll feel as if the surrounding landscape is literally filled with the aura of death. Passing by pitch-black, razor-sharp cliffs, the wind whistles past, and even in the stillness, you feel awe. Perhaps this is the power and charisma of nature.
Death Valley is very large, and its southern portion is home to the most scenic spots. Visitors generally choose to visit the Furnace Creek area, which is the highlight of the entire park. The western part of Death Valley is more desert-like. However, watching the sunrise and sunset from Death Valley is a great option.
The best time to visit Death Valley is in winter, as the temperature is very high and the temperature difference between day and night is very large. Therefore, the best time to visit is from after Thanksgiving to before March of the following year.

Attractions Location: USA

Opening hours:
All day (Monday to Sunday, January 1st - December 31st)

Official phone number: Ticketing Inquiry
+760 786 3200

Transportation:
Self-driving

Time reference: 1 day


Recommended itinerary for Death Valley National Park tours

1-Day Itinerary: Death Valley National Park Highlights

Explore the breathtaking and extreme landscapes of Death Valley National Park in a day, focusing on key viewpoints and iconic sites.

  • Start early from Furnace Creek Visitor Center to get park maps and info.
  • Visit Zabriskie Point for stunning sunrise views (15 min drive from Visitor Center).
  • Drive to Dante’s View (45 min from Zabriskie Point) for panoramic vistas.
  • Head to Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America (1-hour drive).
  • Visit Artist’s Palette for colorful rock formations (20 min from Badwater).
  • End the day with a walk at Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes near Stovepipe Wells (30 min drive back towards Visitor Center).

Transport: Rent a car from nearby cities (Las Vegas, CA) as public transport is unavailable inside the park. All destinations are accessible by car with paved roads.

Accommodation/Food: Stay at The Oasis at Death Valley or Furnace Creek Ranch. Food available at resort restaurants or pack your own meals; limited dining options inside park.

Souvenirs: Purchase local Native American crafts, minerals, and park-themed merchandise at Visitor Center and resort gift shops.


2-Day Itinerary: Death Valley National Park Exploration

Spend two days diving deeper into Death Valley’s geology, history, and unique natural features.

  • Day 1: Follow the 1-day itinerary highlights.
  • Day 2 Morning: Visit Harmony Borax Works and Golden Canyon Trailhead for an easy hike (15 min from Visitor Center).
  • Day 2 Afternoon: Explore Dante’s View again or hike Mosaic Canyon (requires 4WD for some parts).
  • Day 2 Evening: Stargaze at Furnace Creek or Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes.

Transport: Car rental required; 4WD recommended for some trails.

Accommodation/Food: Same as Day 1; consider camping at Furnace Creek Campground for a more immersive experience.

Souvenirs: Borax memorabilia, postcards, and desert-themed jewelry.


3-Day Itinerary: Death Valley and Surrounding Attractions

Add nearby natural and historic sites to your Death Valley visit for a well-rounded trip.

  • Days 1-2: Follow 2-day itinerary.
  • Day 3 Morning: Drive to Scotty’s Castle (note: check current opening status as it may be closed for repairs).
  • Day 3 Afternoon: Visit Ubehebe Crater for a short hike around the volcanic crater (1.5-hour drive north from Furnace Creek).
  • Day 3 Evening: Return to accommodations or camp.

Transport: Car rental; 4WD recommended for some roads.

Accommodation/Food: Same as before or try nearby Beatty, NV for alternative lodging.

Souvenirs: Volcanic rock samples, desert art, local books on geology and park history.


4-Day Itinerary: Full Death Valley National Park Adventure

Experience more remote and off-the-beaten-path areas, with opportunities for hiking and photography.

  • Days 1-3: Follow previous itinerary.
  • Day 4: Explore more hiking trails such as Telescope Peak Trail (strenuous, all day), or visit the Racetrack Playa to see “moving rocks” (requires high-clearance 4WD and preparation).
  • Visit Salt Creek and Badwater Salt Flats for unique landscapes.

Transport: Rent a high-clearance 4WD vehicle; some roads are unpaved and rugged.

Accommodation/Food: Furnace Creek or Stovepipe Wells lodging; pack sufficient food and water for remote hikes.

Souvenirs: Handcrafted desert pottery, geology kits, and park apparel.


5-Day Itinerary: Death Valley and Surrounding Region Exploration

Extend your stay to include nearby towns and more remote park experiences.

  • Days 1-4: Follow previous itinerary.
  • Day 5: Visit nearby Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge (45 min drive) for desert wildlife viewing.
  • Stop at Pahrump, NV for local dining or wine tasting before returning.

Transport: Rental car or SUV recommended.

Accommodation/Food: Stay at Death Valley or Pahrump for more dining variety.

Souvenirs: Wildlife guides, local crafts from Ash Meadows, wine bottles from Pahrump.


6-Day Itinerary: Comprehensive Death Valley & Nearby Natural Wonders

Explore everything Death Valley and nearby natural reserves offer, from geology to wildlife.

  • Days 1-5: Follow previous itinerary.
  • Day 6: Day trip to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area (1.5-hour drive from Death Valley or Las Vegas), hiking and scenic drives.

Transport: Rental car needed.

Accommodation/Food: Stay near Death Valley or Las Vegas for variety.

Souvenirs: Red Rock-themed art, local souvenirs, and outdoor gear.


7-Day Itinerary: Death Valley Immersive Experience

Spend a full week fully immersed in the park’s natural beauty, hiking, sightseeing, and relaxing.

  • Days 1-6: Follow previous itineraries.
  • Day 7: Leisure day: revisit favorite spots, photography sessions at sunrise or sunset, and enjoy local dining at resorts.

Transport: Rental vehicle throughout trip.

Accommodation/Food: Stay at luxury resorts like The Oasis or camp under the stars.

Souvenirs: Limited-edition park posters, handcrafted jewelry, minerals, and desert-themed gifts.


User Reviews

By Carrie |

The roads in Death Valley National Park are well built, so remember to buy a ticket when you come in.

How desolate is Death Valley?

Let me tell you, when you have walked for a long time and finally see a simple toilet, you will run towards it with great joy.

Death Valley's heat is well-deserved, and we arrived at noon. Every time I stopped to walk, a wave of heat washed over me. I could feel the water in my body evaporating rapidly, and I kept drinking water. Later, I realized this was just a prelude to the heat.

I can’t explain why, but I am fascinated by this white earth covered with cracks.

Perhaps it is this belief that supports me to persevere to the end.

Death Valley has three routes, making it difficult to complete them in a single day. If you're just traversing the park and exploring a few sights, a day is sufficient. However, I recommend planning a two-day or longer trip, and ideally, staying overnight in Death Valley (although this is more expensive). Death Valley is incredibly beautiful at dawn, dusk, and night, while daytime exploration can be quite daunting.

【Friendly Sharing】:

1. Please fill up your tank before entering Death Valley. There are not many gas stations in Death Valley and the gas price is at least double.

2. Bring plenty of water! This is extremely important. I don't need to remind you about sunscreen.

3. The best time to visit Death Valley is from November to April. I've heard that you can see Death Valley covered in wildflowers in the spring, but the blooming period varies from year to year, so you might want to try.

4. There is no signal in Death Valley Park. Please download an offline map or prepare a paper map first.

5. There is a farm hotel in the park, so please make a reservation in advance. Staying outside is a bit far.

6. You must rent a 4WD vehicle! If you have a 2WD vehicle, you can just drive around along the main road inside.

7. To see the moving stones you need to arrange a day to go out, it takes 6 hours round trip, you do the math, and the road conditions are not good.

By Wu Qingyun |

It felt like 40°C. After about 5 hours of sightseeing, I was completely dazed and my skin darkened by at least 2°C [pout]. Dante's View, Golden Canyon, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Badwater Basin (the lowest point in the Northern Hemisphere, 85.5 meters below sea level. The valley floor is a salt marsh, a massive saline-alkali land where plants and animals struggle to survive).

By zeze |

There was no cell phone signal throughout the whole trip, so I recommend that you map the route in advance. The temperature in Death Valley is really high, and it is desolate. The only animal we saw was a gerbil. The scenery is really shocking, desolate and lifeless. It was really hot, the hottest day I have ever had in the western United States. This place is hikeable, and many Instagram bloggers have taken many breathtaking photos. Sunset is at

The desert scenery is spectacular. The sand is so fine that I walked barefoot the entire way. There's no signal on the entire Death Valley road, so I felt really unsafe while driving.

By Follow me everywhere |

Death Valley is a desert valley in southeastern California, USA. It is the lowest, driest, and hottest region in North America. Its diverse terrain includes famous attractions such as Badwater Basin, Zabriskie Point, Artist's Walk, and Dante's Point.

Zabriskie Point offers a breathtaking view of the magnificent Golden Canyon and the salt flats beyond, a series of erosional landforms with diverse shapes and graceful lines. Sunrise and sunset are the best times to view the landscape, when the sunlight paints the canyon and mountains golden or red, creating a rich play of light and shadow, creating a breathtaking spectacle.

By scarlett314 |

Death Valley National Park isn't as scary as people say. Highway 190 runs through the entire park, and the road is in excellent condition. Several scenic spots along the forked road are easily accessible early, so you can drive into the park in the morning and leave in the afternoon. The drive into Death Valley is also incredibly beautiful, offering breathtaking views. It's definitely worth a visit.

By Cici |

To be honest, as the first national park I checked in, my understanding of "national park" was refreshed in every minute from its shape, area, to the way it was opened. It is completely different from the various parks in China. Could it be that I can still have more expectations for the vast northwest of my motherland that I have not yet developed?

Death Valley is the driest and hottest region in North America, so it was quite a surprise to see large tracts of vegetation and water. Seeing so many cars parked on the side of the road, I couldn't help but wonder what kind of feng shui location it was, attracting so many people.

Wow, I have to admit, the American people really know how to have fun. They are incredibly meticulous and persistent in their exploration of nature. This small body of water before me looks like a miniature "dumpling-making" scene on the other side, but this water still maintains its temperature even in the middle of winter. I really have to sigh at the mysterious power buried underground in Death Valley, which is barren on one side and gentle and welcoming on the other.

This sparsely populated area definitely lends Death Valley its unique character. From the vegetation to the rock formations, the scenery becomes increasingly desolate the further you drive. At one point, I even wondered if Google Maps had been hacked, causing navigation issues. Looking out, I even felt a sense of daze, wondering if we were about to leave the Earth's surface and elope to the moon. No wonder Star Wars chose this location for filming; it truly creates a profound sense of time and space distortion.

If it weren't for the large-scale displacement of people that suddenly came into view, I would really suspect that I had gone to a fake Death Valley.

By blank_d |

We have basically walked through Death Valley. I recommend two spots: Bad Water, which should be beautiful to take photos of at sunset, and Cape Zabriz.

By Mannibaby |

Death Valley lives up to its reputation! It's truly dead, desolate...there's nothing!

The temperature during the National Day holiday was around 38 degrees Celsius, which is already very hot! It is said that it can be so hot that people can die!

By tin_tin |

Death Valley is a national park, and you can use an annual pass. It's just a strange thing about this park: the sign and the entrance fee are worlds apart. And unlike Yosemite, where you have to pass the entrance fee, it feels like buying one is entirely up to you. From the first vantage point, you can see rock formations that resemble pork belly.

There is no information center or ticket office near the gate, so there is not even a map. The only strategy when entering the park is to park where there are many cars.

After driving for almost 80 kilometers, we finally arrived at the visitor center, which is also the largest rest area. We asked for a simple map and found out that we came in from the west. We walked for a whole morning and still hadn't reached a real major viewing point!

All the viewpoints are located in the southern part of the route from the center to Vegas. This realization made us a little disappointed. We were excited all morning, but we still hadn't visited the main attractions in the park.

Death Valley's famous attractions are relatively concentrated; it's impossible to visit them all due to its vast size. Artist Drive and Bad Water Basin are must-sees, as they're both on the same road, about 40 kilometers from the visitor center.

By zhuihaomfw |

I excitedly drove over to the first attraction in Death Valley National Park and parked, but there was nothing nearby except two unpaved trails. We chose the one that led to the top, and my wife and I began our arduous climb under the scorching sun. Reaching the summit, there was no one else around, and the surroundings remained desolate, with no signs of human intervention. In the distance, I could see the desert valley floor. Just as I was surveying this Martian-like world with fascination, a rumbling sound suddenly spread from the vast, distant void. I stared intently at the horizon for two seconds, my head buzzing—two fighter jets, flying at an extremely low altitude, suddenly appeared above the distant mountains, tumbling, rolling, and playfully careening towards us. The low rumble quickly escalated into a deafening roar that spread throughout the entire space. Like the arrival of death, the entire Death Valley trembled, and the overwhelming sound almost suffocated me. Every cell in my body vibrated violently, as if I were part of the fighter jets overhead, resonating with them, igniting with their energy. The two fighters arrived and departed just as quickly. Only when the roar faded did my wife and I regain our composure and stare at each other in amazement. Witnessing US military aircraft conducting ultra-low-altitude training exercises, a pair of them coordinating in elaborate maneuvers, was incredible. The three blurry photos I snapped were evidence of my first, and likely only, close encounter with the US Air Force. All in all, today's detour to Death Valley was well worth it. We arrived at the official Death Valley National Park toll booth. Due to the monotonous scenery, harsh environment, and lax management, the so-called toll booth lacked even a proper booth or gate. There was just a small roadside hut with a sign advising everyone to pay their own way. I hadn't planned to stop, relying on my annual national park pass. I'd already driven a few hundred meters when I suddenly remembered I didn't have the official map. So I turned back, parked, and went inside to ask the staff to confirm that since I had an annual park pass, I didn't need to buy a ticket. I also asked for a map. Actually, even if I didn't buy a ticket, no one would care. There was only one staff member inside, and outside was a vast desert shining brightly under the scorching sun. I can only say that tourists who are willing to come here are sentimental. But—guess where I encountered the most tour groups during my entire trip to the United States? That's right, it was here. There were so many tour buses parked in the parking lot, a treat I hadn't encountered anywhere else. And yet, there really is only desert here...

By Watercolor car and Melaleuca |

Death Valley, a place I ventured into without knowing the dangers. A car breakdown or lack of gas can be incredibly troublesome. There was no cell service, and I spent a lot of time preparing before entering. Fortunately, it went smoothly. The scenery was desolate, a bit like the moon, with the peaks in strange colors. The temperature approached 40 degrees Celsius under the scorching sun. My stomach was churning from the ice milk I'd drunk, and it finally subsided when I reached the town of Long Pine. It was an unforgettable experience.

By Three |

This national park actually has no toll booth. There is a sign on the side of the highway telling you that there is a place ahead where you can buy tickets. Then, on the side of the highway, there is a very simple toilet with a very simple machine next to it. It is unattended and you have to rely on your own conscience and use a credit card to buy tickets. No other methods are supported.

You need to climb up a mountain, then go down to the bottom of Death Valley, then climb up another mountain, and then go down again. It was so thrilling that I didn't take many photos. Life safety is the most important thing!

By andrew |

It's a truly beautiful national park. Death Valley itself has so many attractions that you could spend 2-3 days there. Since we were on our way there, we only visited a few that were on the way, but it was still a truly breathtaking experience.

National park visitor centers in the United States typically have a small museum that showcases local history and culture. I highly recommend visiting any of them if you have the time. Death Valley's visitor center is no exception, featuring a small museum with a sand table map of the entire park and a simulated starry sky. It gave us a taste of the night sky, even though we don't have time to gaze at the stars.

This section of the road in Death Valley is one of the most beautiful on the road. There is a dried-up salt lake inside that can only be entered on foot. There is also a small desert.

By Kiki's Holiday |

I absolutely adore Death Valley. It's second only to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon in my favorite national parks this time. It's enormous, and it's best to book a night's stay in advance at a hotel within the park (near the visitor center). Winter is a good time to visit. There's no shelter, and the temperatures are high and sunny in the summer. Cell phone reception is poor within the park, and without navigation, just drive along Highway 190. It's both magnificent and eerie. There are many trails, all pristine gravel roads. Even foreigners are using them. If you don't like this kind of landscape, don't go.

By F sauce |

Death Valley is really a very mysterious and interesting place. I recommend you to visit it if you pass by.



We entered the park without even realizing it, and there wasn't even a booth to check the park card.



Then after entering, it was all the way down the mountain, and the surrounding scenery became more and more desolate.



Become barren~



I also saw some groups hiking in the desert, which was quite interesting, but it was too sunny.



We also walked a little in the desert. The sand was very fine and the wind could easily blind us.



After a round of play, I returned to the car to pour sand and found that half of my shoes were filled with sand. My mouth was also full of sand. It was really a magical place.

There are some small roads in the middle, and some wild roads, which give you an off-road feeling, but there is nothing to see when you drive in.



When you reach the top of the valley, remember to stop and take pictures. The scenery is very beautiful.

By Chen Chen |

This is the lowest national park in the US, with beautiful natural scenery. You can easily explore all of its attractions while driving. However, I wouldn't recommend visiting this park in the summer because it's too hot! There are some great hiking spots, so I recommend it for those who enjoy the outdoors. I won't go into too much detail about Death Valley; one day is enough.

By Tu Mi Feng Lin |

Aside from a few tenacious plants, the area within a hundred miles was barren and barren. If you arrived at noon in the summer, you would probably be roasted to a pulp.

This monochromatic Danxia landform is incomparable to the colorful Danxia in Zhangye, Gansu Province, my country. While the colorful Danxia may appear beautiful, this place offers only endless desolation. Death Valley is the site of a remnant of Native American culture dating back 9,000 years, but its notoriety as a "Death Valley" didn't become widespread until over 160 years ago. In the winter of 1849, a gold-mining train traversed the valley, but the harsh weather resulted in the deaths of most on board. The few who made it through sadly uttered "Goodbye, Death Valley" upon leaving, earning the name. Due to the arid and scorching climate, many prospectors using Death Valley as a shortcut to California tragically perished in the desert, further cementing the fame of the American name.

Death Valley's landscape is certainly desolate, but the roads here are excellent, making it a perfect place for road trip photography, and the traffic is minimal. Normally, those traveling in groups or those of us who had been there a few days ago would have gone on a wild ride, but we simply enjoyed ourselves for a while before leaving in a hurry. In Death Valley, we also discovered a train museum, perhaps related to the gold rush. It's small and not very informative, probably just a place for tourists to rest and relax.

By Pure source and clear flow |

The high in Death Valley reached 123°F. A roadside hike was underway, with cars delivering water at regular intervals and crews in fluorescent vests providing emergency assistance. We felt it took courage to even get out of the car to take a photo. They were actually doing this outdoors, just an hour's drive away. Amazing!

By jojo |

Before heading to Death Valley, remember to buy some water, as the temperature there can be around 50 degrees Celsius in the summer... On the way there, we stopped at a gas station and bought some water. The saleswoman kindly asked for more. The park is incredibly large, and it's actually a long drive, so the round trip takes quite a while. It was truly stunning. It was 49 degrees Celsius when we visited, definitely the hottest experience of our lives. I saw a foreigner wearing slippers accidentally lose their grip and land on the ground, leading to a heart-wrenching howl. I think his foot might have burned. The park boasts many unique landforms, including deserts, salt marshes, and basins, making it a truly remarkable sight. Although it's quite large, the trails are clearly marked and easy to find. There seems to be a world mystery about self-propelled rocks, but it's a long, desolate road, and requires a long, desolate drive. Time and traffic didn't allow for that, so I didn't go. Be careful driving on some gravel roads. Apart from the high temperature, I quite like everything else about this place. It sounds like a cool place right from the name.

By Leung A Lun |

Any green plant that survives here is incredibly resilient. A patch of sand has emerged from the Gobi Desert, and many people climb it specifically for sandboarding. Since it's winter, the temperatures in Death Valley are relatively mild; it's hard to imagine enduring the scorching temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius in the summer. At the former Western mining site, you can climb the sand dunes for an unobstructed 360-degree view.

By Photographer YING_Z |

Even in winter, the temperature here is over 20 degrees Celsius, which is very hot. If it were summer, you would be roasted to death by the sun...

I don't recommend coming here in the summer, it's very, very hot.

By Wang Wang 77 Big Mouth Ding |

Artist Drive is a one-way street, accessible only from the direction of the visitor center, which is from Badwater. Flanked by cliffs and hills, the road in the middle feels like walking on another planet.

There was no signal in the park, which left me with a lot of regrets. I didn’t get to watch the Milky Way sunrise in the desert, and I didn’t hike to the top of Death Valley and put my feet on it. But Death Valley is a place I must visit again.

Death Valley is the national park I'm most looking forward to in the US. While many people might skip this place to visit more famous attractions due to tight schedules, I strongly recommend not skipping it! While the Grand Canyon and Arches National Park are both stunning examples of the American West, Death Valley is a true masterpiece of desolate wonder.

Due to the harsh climate of Death Valley, although you can visit it year-round, it is recommended to avoid the summer after May. The high temperatures are very unsuitable for travel and may even be life-threatening. The climate is very dry in winter, so autumn and spring are more suitable.

Wolves roam Death Valley. Isn't that fascinating? I didn't encounter any, though. The extreme climate and bizarre landscape make it feel like being on an alien planet, isolated from the world.

Death Valley is really big and is mainly divided into four areas. The main attractions are concentrated in the Furnace Creek Area, which is also the location of the visitor center.

Notes (Must see when visiting Death Valley!!!)

1. No signal: It takes 2 hours to drive from Las Vegas to Death Valley. There is almost no signal in Death Valley, so be sure to download the offline map in advance.

2. Attractions: When you arrive in Death Valley, it is recommended that you go to the Furnace Creek Visitor Center to get a map. Because the weather in Death Valley is severe and unstable, the attractions open throughout the year vary. It is best to go to the visitor center first to ask which attractions are open, otherwise it will be a wasted trip. You can also ask them to recommend a route according to your schedule.

3. Essentials: Food and water. Death Valley is extremely dry, and hiking requires a certain amount of stamina, so be sure to pack plenty of food and water. My princess and I only had two bottles of water left, and we endured a grueling day there.

4. Car: Many people say a four-wheel drive is essential for Death Valley, and I was extremely hesitant about renting a Jeep. However, if you're not going too deep into the valley, or spending a few days exploring the area, a regular sedan will do just fine. The only problem is that the roads can be quite unpaved and shaky. It's perfectly manageable. Also, be sure to fill up your car with gas before entering Death Valley; I didn't see a gas station for at least a dozen kilometers.

5. Toilet

By Potato Sister |

The moment I opened the car door, I felt the long-lost scorching sun.

The park facilities are purely natural and original. Apart from the signposts and warning signs, there is really nothing else.

The best time to visit is in spring, which is around March and April; autumn and winter are also acceptable, but try to avoid summer. This is where the world's hottest temperatures have been found, and the temperature is definitely no joke!

By Emily |

Death Valley, the largest national park in the United States, is also one of the lowest and driest regions in the world. The park is comprised of golden sand dunes, vast wastelands, deep canyons, towering mountains, and valleys. It is the hottest and driest national park in the United States. Summers are scorching, with the absolute high reaching 56.7°C. Our visit at this time was the most comfortable, with the high reaching 27°C.

Death Valley has several iconic attractions: BadWater Basin, Golden Canyon, Zabriskie Point, Devils Golf Course

Follow the navigation and experience it all the way!

By Shanghai Next Life |

This park is unlike Yosemite, the Grand Canyon, or Yellowstone. Its defining characteristic is its desert! Death Valley is most famous for Bad Water, reputedly the lowest point in the United States. However, the wind was so strong that day that I couldn't venture far inside, so I took a few photos near the parking lot. The view of the long highway from above is truly spectacular.

By Carina |

It's huge, and many people just drive through it, even if they've already visited Death Valley. But this place is actually worth at least two days of fun. But remember not to come in the summer, it's too hot!

By Lady Ying |

Death Valley National Park is vast, with numerous attractions. The official website recommends four routes: the fastest, easiest, the Ruins Trail, and the most scenic. We chose the Most Scenic Trail. See the map below for the exact route. It's best to set up your route on Google Maps. It will definitely take more than 3.5 hours, so plan at least a day to enjoy the scenery at each attraction.

Badwater Basin, a snow-white road stretches through the arid landscape towards the distant mountains. The ground is cracked, yet small puddles still form. The white areas are actually salt crystals, which look like snow, but are smoldering from the heat. Devils Golf Course, a truly barren landscape. This section is on a small side road, so it's best avoided unless you have an off-road vehicle; the sandy ground makes it difficult to navigate. Artists Drive, the art path, offers views of multicolored rocks, each hued by different minerals, resembling an artist's graffiti. The final section of Artists Drive is narrow and winding, with the rock colors constantly changing. The steep slopes and breathtaking scenery are a journey full of surprises. There's an abandoned Indian town on this land, once home to an Indian civilization. Now, all that's left are ruins, shrouded in dust and sand, and a guide explains its history. I can't imagine how anyone survives in Death Valley, where temperatures can reach over 50 degrees Celsius in the summer. The harsh environment only serves to unleash human potential. Even more magical is Salt Creek, where a clear stream meanders through the sun-cracked earth. Even fish swim through during the high-flow season, a true testament to the tenacity of life. There's a wooden boardwalk for hiking, but it was so hot we only walked a short distance before leaving.

I was still muttering, "The desert scene I saw wasn't what I'd imagined, and I had to admit, I felt a little disappointed." Suddenly, as if fulfilling my wish, a stretch of sand dunes appeared beside the road, and the true desert scenery suddenly appeared! The dunes stretched out, their fine sand covered with twisted, dead trees that stretched unyieldingly towards the sky. The unique greenery of the desert also quietly spread out. I left with satisfaction, the scenery along the way still special. Clusters of red, yellow, and green shrubs dotted the hillsides, with numerous cacti towering among them, adding to the Western atmosphere. Death Valley might not be the most famous of the national parks, and its environment might be quite harsh, but I was still glad I didn't miss it. Experiencing such a diverse desert landscape in one day completely overturned my impression of the desert. It wasn't simply barren, not lifeless, but a uniquely rugged beauty. The eternal summer, the everlasting heat, tinged with a touch of timelessness, inspired endless yearning and imagination.

By Mr. Qiao |

The road into the valley has many sharp turns and is quite dangerous. The feeling of actually arriving in Death Valley is always different from what you imagined.

By leisurely |

The roads in Death Valley National Park may have just been renovated. They are very beautiful. The black asphalt road forms a sharp contrast with the hazy mountains in the distance. There are also many tenacious green vegetation growing on both sides of the road.

The staff are very enthusiastic and patient in answering your questions. You will also get a Death Valley map. Each national map will tell you the animals and plants living in the park, which will increase your knowledge. You have been guessing whether it is a wolf or a fox, and now you know it. There are only foxes in Death Valley, no wolves.

By Edison |

In the western United States, there are deserts, snow-capped mountains, lakes, canyons, and all kinds of terrain and landforms. It is a magical place.

By Small lime |

Death Valley National Park is located on the eastern foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It is very large and is known as the largest national park in the 48 contiguous states. It is also the driest and hottest area in the world.

The northern part of Death Valley is sparsely populated and lacks public facilities. Death Valley is famous for its walking rocks, a phenomenon whose cause remains unknown. Driving along a seemingly endless stretch of road, you'll feel as if the surrounding landscape is literally filled with the aura of death. Passing by pitch-black, razor-sharp cliffs, the wind whistles past, and even in the stillness, you feel awe. Perhaps this is the power and charisma of nature.

Death Valley is very large, and its southern portion is home to the most scenic spots. Visitors generally choose to visit the Furnace Creek area, which is the highlight of the entire park. The western part of Death Valley is more desert-like. However, watching the sunrise and sunset from Death Valley is a great option.

The best time to visit Death Valley is in winter, as the temperature is very high and the temperature difference between day and night is very large. Therefore, the best time to visit is from after Thanksgiving to before March of the following year.

By Three Grasses 🌱 |

This time, I'd like to recommend Death Valley National Park to you. This stretch of land in the contiguous United States boasts not only the vibrant colors of Yellowstone, the majestic Grand Canyon, and the hazy Great Smoky Mountains... but also Death Valley National Park, a vast expanse filled with breathtaking scenery and a wealth of unforeseen possibilities. The plan to visit Death Valley was finalized last October. It's been so long, I've forgotten who suggested it. The "Flying Wave" quartet hadn't used their quota yet. They went all out, letting loose, and having a blast. Death Valley's original three-and-a-half-day itinerary was completely disrupted by the weather, even Plan B had to be scrapped. Fortunately, Death Valley's natural wonders remain untouched. Wild winds, thick fog, torrential rain, and snow couldn't dampen the restless passion of youth. If there were any regrets, it would probably be the Milky Way obscured by clouds, refusing to reveal its true face to the public, and Titus Canyon, washed away by silt and sand, blocking the path for visitors to explore. In Death Valley, there are no plans. Because plans can never keep up with change. Death Valley isn't shabby, either. Nature abounds in beauty. Want to visit Death Valley? Death Valley National Park, the largest national park in the contiguous United States, boasts the lowest point in North America and the second-highest near-Earth temperature in the world. This spot, on the border of Nevada and California, boasts basins, deserts, extinct volcanic craters, and countless hidden secrets.

By Yu Xin |

The scenery is great, and I saw wolves. It is one of the places you must visit in your lifetime.

By Kaka Heart |

Death Valley National Park, located on the border of California and Nevada, is part of the Mojave and Colorado Deserts Biosphere Reserve. It boasts a diverse range of ecological landscapes, including salt marshes, sand dunes, barren lands, valleys, and canyons. It is renowned for its "three mosts": the lowest altitude, driest temperature, and hottest temperature in North America. Native Americans have inhabited the area as early as the 7th century BC. In the mid-19th century, a European gold prospector, seeking a shortcut to the California gold fields, stumbled upon the valley and named it "Death Valley." Although only one member of the group died in the valley, the name lives on through the miners. During the 19th and 20th centuries, the discovery of gold and silver led to the flourishing of several small towns in Death Valley. However, as the gold rush faded, the area gradually became deserted, with residents moving away, and it is now a veritable ghost town. In the 20th century, Death Valley began to gain popularity as a tourist attraction, leading to the development of Death Valley National Park. Death Valley, simply by name, could easily be considered one of the world's most desolate destinations. Formed by early tectonic movements, it appears desolate and serene, yet these vast valleys and mountains are home to a diverse array of animals. According to Wikipedia, there are 51 mammal species, 307 bird species, 36 reptile species, 3 amphibian species, and 2 fish species. The fact that fish can survive in a place known as the "driest" sounds incredibly inspiring and unyielding. How can we even call it "death"? A Death Valley itinerary can easily be planned for 1-2 days. Our itinerary was simple: 1.1 Depart from Los Angeles, drive northeast into Death Valley, entering through the west gate and exploring along Highway 190.

By George24 |

On the second leg, we rested at Beatty before heading south and entering Death Valley National Park through the north gate. The scenery changed instantly. We first crossed the Sierra Nevada Mountains, then the vast Great Central Valley, at a negative altitude, filled with desert and sandstorms. Each scenic spot was signposted, and cars were available along the way. At the toll booth, we met a Chinese family of seven. We chatted for a while, but unfortunately, we didn't take a photo. After all, it's not easy to meet compatriots in such a remote place. It's said that countless films, including the Star Wars and Transformers series, have been filmed here. It truly feels like something out of this world.

By cocoa |

If I had to choose a place I'd most like to visit again from this trip, it would definitely be Death Valley. Next time, I'd like to have a tent, enjoy the starry sky, and hike. Since we weren't going in the summer, the temperature in Death Valley wasn't very high; it was actually a bit chilly.

By Qilian Zen Heart |

The landforms are diverse, with basalt canyons, sedimentary canyons, scoria piles, colorful rock walls, and sand dunes. It's a paradise for geology enthusiasts.

By Zhuang and Orange |

Death Valley is the largest, hottest, and driest national park in the contiguous United States, with most of it located in California and a smaller portion in Nevada. When someone first suggested going to Death Valley, I was a bit hesitant. Isn't that just looking for death? Curious about why it's called Death Valley, I researched the origins online: After gold was discovered in California in 1848, prospectors flocked to the area. In the winter of 1849, a group of prospectors, en route to the Gold Mountains, took a shortcut through Death Valley. Many perished as a result, and the few who made it through sadly uttered "Goodbye, Death Valley!" as they departed. Hence the name Death Valley.

With so many recommendations, there must be something special about it. People come here to see this stark, alien-like landscape. Death Valley is one of the hottest places in the world, with summer temperatures consistently exceeding 40°C, sometimes even 50°C. Going there in the summer is a death wish! It's only suitable for visiting after October, so, with a pilgrimage in mind, we arranged this trip for Thanksgiving at the end of November.

Death Valley is very large, and its southern part is the most scenic. Most visitors choose to visit the Furnace Creek area, which is also the essence of the entire park. We only have one day, so we can only choose these southern attractions.

The drive from Las Vegas was a little over two hours, and I was speeding along the desolate Western highways before I knew it, but it took me two hours to get there. I'd already mapped all the places I wanted to visit on Google Maps, a total of eight. Let's go through them one by one.

By XJ@LA |

Death Valley National Park boasts three key characteristics: hottest, driest, and lowest. Due to its desert valley landscape surrounded by mountains, Death Valley dries out early year-round, consistently maintaining the hottest temperatures in California. The landscape is characterized by a desolate and empty atmosphere, with canyons, desert sands, rock formations, and salt flats as the main attractions. Due to its extreme heat, Death Valley is often considered a winter park, and we took advantage of the Thanksgiving holiday, the beginning of winter. In fact, the park is open year-round, allowing visitors to visit at any time of year, depending on their reason for visiting. Autumn, beginning in late October, offers pleasant temperatures and clear skies, perfect for hiking and stargazing. Winter is cooler, with cold nights and the potential for heavy rain. However, the valley's beauty is enhanced by the snow-capped mountaintops and the low sun angle, making the winter even more beautiful. Spring is the most popular season for visitors. If there have been winter rains, wildflowers bloom in the following spring, typically in late March or early April. Summer comes very early in Death Valley. After May, it becomes very hot and not suitable for travel. The temperature can reach over 50 degrees. People who go to Death Valley in summer probably want to challenge themselves, and they often die of heat!



Here are the lessons I learned from our trip to Death Valley:

1. Death Valley National Park has a unique landscape, a wild, rugged beauty that's well worth a visit. However, the conditions are truly harsh, extremely dry and dusty. Sun protection and hydration are crucial. The dirt roads are all dirt, and shoes and pants are covered in dirt in no time. Essentially, shoes are unusable in Death Valley. A small car vacuum might help, but if you don't have one, bring an extra pair of shoes, and avoid wearing dark-colored shoes or pants. A visit shouldn't last more than two days; it's too uncomfortable!



2. Death Valley is indeed a great place for stargazing, but it's incredibly cold up there, so you need to dress warmly. It's not cold in the valley, so I recommend camping over hotels. Hotels in this national park are all privately owned, expensive, and in poor condition. Our cheapest room cost $258, which, with taxes and resort fees, was $300. The campsite was $22.



3. It is also possible to go through the park in one day. Our route basically covers all the major attractions. For details, please refer to my travelogue [A Journey Through Hell Like Another World] 2016 Thanksgiving Day Trip to Death Valley National Park and Las Vegas http://www.mafengwo.cn/i/6482837.html.



4. Bring plenty of food with you, as the restaurants in the park are expensive and the food is terrible. The campgrounds and hotels all have barbecue grills, and it's great to grill yourself, especially if you're in a group.



5. Be sure to bring plenty of water!!! The four of us only managed one case of water for the day. I also brought a 2L kettle because I had a cold, but we almost ran out of water. There are supermarkets near the Death Valley Visitor Center and the hotel where you can buy water. Don't miss them! Death Valley is huge, and if you're far out, you'll have to drive a long way to find a store.

By Kelly Liu |

Death Valley National Park is very unique: it is the largest, hottest and driest national park in the continental United States; an international biosphere reserve; and has the second lowest geographical point in the Western Hemisphere, second only to Argentina's Laguna del Carbon. In July, the average maximum temperature here is 46°C and the average minimum temperature is 31°C. As we drove in, Xiao De and I couldn't help but sigh that fortunately, we didn't come in the summer. The driving route in Death Valley is as follows: Driving from California, take Highway 190, the first attraction of this trip... Mesquite Sand Dunes. Mesquite is this kind of plant, legume, shrub, green on the sand.

By Rent an RV |

Death Valley is about a four-hour drive from Las Vegas. It's completely deserted, perhaps similar to China's Huoyan Mountain. The Creek Oasis we stayed at surprisingly even has a swimming pool! Swimming amidst the scorching wind was especially captivating.

By Walking and photographing colors-Hai Miao |

Teacher Yunman, photos taken in Death Valley National Park

By Xi Xiao Xiao Bei |

Death Valley National Park, the largest national park in the lower 48 states, is also considered the driest and hottest region in the world. The scenic area is entirely comprised of endless desert and the surrounding area, making it one of the most inhospitable places for human habitation. There's no gate to the park, so we drove from Las Vegas along Highways 95/373/127 and found ourselves in the park. The thermometer in our car soared from 95 degrees Fahrenheit (about 35 degrees Celsius) to 122 degrees Fahrenheit (50 degrees Celsius). If you're visiting Death Valley in the summer, it's best to stay in your car.

By Travel every day |

It's hot, but the scenery is good, it's worth a visit~

By xinzhi |

Death Valley National Park is very unique: it is the largest, hottest and driest national park in the continental United States; an international biosphere reserve; and has the second lowest geographical point in the Western Hemisphere, second only to Argentina's Laguna del Carbon. In July, the average maximum temperature here is 46°C and the average minimum temperature is 31°C. As we drove in, Xiao De and I couldn't help but sigh that fortunately, we didn't come in the summer. The driving route in Death Valley is as follows: Driving from California, take Highway 190, the first attraction of this trip... Mesquite Sand Dunes. Mesquite is this kind of plant, legume, shrub, green on the sand.

By FJJJJJJ |

I went there in June and almost died of the heat in Death Valley. I suggest you don't choose to go in the summer.

By 01lin yi |

From LA to Mammoth Lake in Yosemite, take Highway 395 along the way and encounter Death Valley. The scenery is beautiful!

By Mars User |

A very special desert landscape. This is the hottest place in the world, so be prepared for heatstroke!

By William Lin |

We went at the end of August, which isn't a popular time for travel due to the high temperatures, often exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. However, I found it a truly wonderful experience, as we were in the lowest and hottest part of the United States, and any trip without experiencing the scorching heat wouldn't be complete. Death Valley is breathtaking, said to have been formed by earthquakes millions of years ago, while the central Badwater Basin is a remarkable display of repeated evaporation events. I recommend three spots: Zabriskie Point, for stunning views of the Death Valley landscape with its vibrant colors and sharp lines; Badwater Basin, the lowest point in the United States; and Dante View, for breathtaking panoramic views of Death Valley and Badwater Basin. The scenery along the way was truly stunning, with the mountains displaying a vibrant array of colors, a reflection of the mineral deposits within. Tickets are $20 per car, purchased independently. Our visit coincided with the National Park Service's 100th anniversary, so admission was free, making it a truly perfect trip.

By I am the nose and you are the snot |

The lowest point in the Western Hemisphere, it boasts a rich geological landscape with salt marshes, sand dunes, volcanic craters, canyons, and snow-capped mountains. It is also the hottest and driest region in North America, with almost no rain year-round.

The daily temperature is above 30 degrees Celsius, the weather is dry and the sunshine intensity is very high. There is no shelter, so please wear sunscreen and have plenty of water.

By Beauty in the Snow |

We didn't look for anything in particular, but the scenery along the way made us very satisfied. Several unexpected attractions also gave us unexpected surprises.

By Manmanda |

Here, you'll find bizarre peaks and rocks, colorful canyons, sand dunes, and salt flats—nature's unparalleled craftsmanship is fully on display. You can even see the Milky Way.

By The only one in Los Angeles |

Overall, the scenery is spectacular, but the lack of water makes long drives unavoidably dry and boring. Public facilities are also relatively scarce, with few gas stations, public restrooms, and restaurants. You might drive for two or three hours without seeing a gas station. Be sure to fill up your tank early. Also, be sure to have plenty of water and food before entering the park.

By Light Flying |

As its name suggests, the vast, uninhabited area is dry and scorching. In the days before cars, crossing it by human power was highly unlikely. Even if you drive, be prepared. Fill up your tank at every gas station, as they're often separated by 100 to 200 miles. Keep plenty of mineral water in your car to help you survive a breakdown. The lonely road is often devoid of traffic for long periods. Yet, Death Valley, with its shrouded atmosphere of death, is still worth a visit, not just for the beauty but simply to experience the desolation.

By COJ |

America's national parks are truly amazing. This was my first visit. The desert, mountains, and canyon scenery captivated me. The highlight of this trip was Death Valley National Park... Oh, and of course, Highway 1.

By Edison-is-me |

Many people think it is boring, but I think it is nice to walk through it if you have time. It is the first time that I feel the same as looking at the sea when looking at the mountains. It is comfortable.

By Idear |

I went to Death Valley specifically to see the flowers during the once-in-a-decade Death Valley flowering season.

By Lazy Cat |

It's a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Vegas, so I recommend a full day. Hiking is possible in Golden Canyon. Zabriskie Point is a great place to watch the sunset. I recommend visiting the sand dunes in the early morning, evening, or at night. They were in bloom this year. :)

By Simon |

If you are not on your way, you can skip this place. There is not much scenery. There are some deserts to see.

By jinjin9949 |

It was the first time I saw this landform. It was really hot. I got tanned two shades after going out.

By Macro |

The scenery is unique, just like Mars, a very wonderful place.

By Big-faced cat |

Desert, stones, nothing else seems to exist, at least no green plants are seen, but it is so beautiful and so desirable.

By blue_fantasy |

It is not as well developed as the Grand Canyon, but it is also a large-scale tourist attraction. The difference from the Grand Canyon is that here it is endless and you can't see the end at a glance.

By I walk alone through the mountains |

It's so big that I only had half a day to explore it. The scenery is very unique and magnificent, and it's worth a visit. When I was filling up at the gas station, I accidentally filled the gas pump into the car of a young couple from Guangdong. It was quite interesting and a coincidence.

By Seven |

Death Valley was truly desolate. Even the ticket office was deserted, with only a vending machine. We spent a long time figuring out how to buy tickets, but couldn't figure it out. Death Valley was incredibly hot. Even after sunset at 5 p.m., you could still feel the heat waves.

By Piaopiaobing |

It's so dry and hot here! There are few people, the road is straight and flat, and it's fun to drive there.

By Helen |

The lowest and hottest place in the Americas, and also the location where some of the Star Wars movies were filmed. There are hotels in the park, and it is best to stay for 1 or 2 nights.

By Terran |

The scenery is full of bare hills of various colors, desolate Gobi desert, and very little vegetation. We also encountered a wolf-like animal during our trip.

By Htt |

It's just average, nothing good.

By KungfuPandaQ |

This photo was taken in the desert of Death Valley National Park. At first glance, it's filled with despair. The sun is setting, the moon is high, and the outdoor air temperature remains at 42 degrees Celsius. Even a calm mind may not necessarily bring peace...

By lisa |

Despite the heat and desolation, Death Valley offers a variety of stunning landscapes, including deserts, salt ponds, and other magical, colorful landscapes. I still love it there. I've heard there are rattlesnakes at night, but I'm not a fan. By the way, gas is the most expensive in Death Valley.

By ZJY |

The surface temperature in August is over 45 degrees, which is very hot. Bring plenty of water and some dry food. The car should be in good condition. Although there are cars passing by on the road, it is still dangerous to get into trouble.

By wenwen2543 |

It is quite unique and worthy of its name. Since I went there in June, the climate was hot, with temperatures of 40-50 degrees. There were warning signs reminding that turning on the air conditioner for a long time may affect the engine and there is a risk of tire blowout. It is very scary. It is not recommended to go there in the hot summer, otherwise there is a risk of not being able to get out and touching death.

By Jeff |

Death Valley is a huge valley with altitudes ranging from 4,000 feet to 100 feet below sea level. It not only has endless Gobi Desert, but also steep mountain roads, deserts, salt lakes and various landforms.

We began to venture deeper into the valley, a true Death Valley, surrounded by desolate Gobi desert, with a straight road reaching the horizon. We drove for 20 minutes without seeing a single car, and I felt an inexplicable sense of conquest.

By Three leaves |

Death Valley is best visited in winter. The temperature is very high, with a large difference between day and night. Even though it's only mid-March, the midday sun is already scorching.

Before the trip, I mentioned to my friends that we were going to Death Valley. Most of them looked worried and immediately told me to be careful.

When I arrived at Death Valley, I didn't feel unsafe at all. Instead, the desolation and barrenness were beyond my imagination.


The attractions mentioned in the above itinerary