Overnight at DV

Question

We are driving from Mammoth Mtn to Las Vegas and was thinking of stopping in Death Valley for one night and would like to see as much as possible. We will be in a rental car in June so understand it will be hot. We are from Australia so used to the heat but would appreciate any suggestions on what to see and where to stay.

Answer

Visiting Death Valley for an overnight stop is a fantastic idea, especially if you want to see a lot of the park without feeling rushed. Since you’ll be driving from Mammoth Mountain to Las Vegas in June, it’s important to plan carefully, as temperatures can be extremely high during the day.

For an overnight stay, there are a few lodging options within and near the park. Staying inside the park is convenient because it maximizes your sightseeing time and reduces long drives in the heat:

Furnace Creek: Offers the most central location in the park, with Furnace Creek Resort providing comfortable rooms, a pool, and a restaurant.
Stovepipe Wells Village: Good option with basic accommodations, dining, and access to Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes nearby.
Panamint Springs Resort: Smaller and more rustic, located on the western side of the park, ideal if you want a quieter stay and easy access to Wildrose Peak and Telescope Peak trailheads.

Since you’re only staying one night, prioritize key highlights that are easily accessible and manageable in a rental car. Suggested sites include:

Badwater Basin: Lowest point in North America, stunning salt flats—great for photography, especially near sunset.
Zabriskie Point: Iconic viewpoint with dramatic landscapes, perfect for a short walk and sunrise/sunset views.
Dante’s View: High viewpoint with panoramic views of the valley floor, relatively quick drive from Furnace Creek.
Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes: Short walks and photo opportunities near Stovepipe Wells.
Artist’s Drive and Artist’s Palette: Scenic one-way loop road with colorful rock formations; best in late afternoon for lighting.

Tips for visiting in June:

Start early in the morning to avoid the peak heat and crowds at popular spots.
Carry plenty of water, sunscreen, and hats. Even if you’re used to heat, dehydration is a risk in Death Valley.
Plan meals ahead, as options in the park are limited and often expensive.
Keep drives short and choose attractions that are easily accessible by paved roads, as walking long distances in the heat can be dangerous.

Even with one night, an efficient plan could be to arrive in the afternoon, see nearby sites like Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes and Badwater Basin, watch the sunset at Zabriskie Point, and then get an early start the next morning to visit Dante’s View and Artist’s Drive before heading to Las Vegas. This approach balances sightseeing with safety and comfort during extreme summer temperatures.

Overnight at DV

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