Article Summary: Things to Do in Death Valley National Park
As the largest national park outside of Alaska, Death Valley has a lot to offer. The name implies that there isn’t much to see, but this park is full of life and there’s a wide variety of things to do in Death Valley.
You’ll be amazed by the slot canyons, sand dunes, salt flats, deserts, mountains, and so much more on any trip to Death Valley. It’s also the park of superlatives hosting the nation’s lowest point (282 feet below sea level), the hottest temperature on record (134°F/57°C), and the driest desert (Mojave). You’ll find plenty of things to see in this mind-blowing place. Here are 14 amazing things to do in Death Valley National Park.
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Table of Contents
Logistics of Visiting Death Valley National Park
Before we get into the best things to do in Death Valley, let’s look at the logistics of visiting the park.
Where is Death Valley? Death Valley National Park is located in southeastern California on the border of Nevada. The park is north of Joshua Tree and Mojave Preserve and east of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.
How much does it cost? There is a park entrance fee of $30 per vehicle or $15 per person if you enter the park on foot or on a bicycle. This fee is valid for seven days. If you have a current America the Beautiful pass, this fee is waived. The park entrance fee does not include fees for tours, camping, lodging, or other services.
Prepare for desert conditions. It’s hot and dry! Make sure you drink plenty of water, no matter what time of year you visit. Dehydration is nasty anywhere, but Death Valley is especially remote. Be safe and take care of yourself when you visit. Furthermore, when the rare rains fall, flash floods can occur. Be prepared to move to higher ground at any time if it begins to rain.
Drive safely. Follow the posted speed limits; many accidents have occurred on the park’s remote roads when assistance is very far away. Drive on designated roads only. Off-roading is illegal. Many roads are unpaved, dirt, or gravel and 4WD, high-clearance vehicles are recommended.
Map of Things to Do in Death Valley National Park
You can click on the map above to view and download the map of things to do in Death Valley in its entirety. If you’re interested in a detailed map of the Furnace Creek area, click here to download one.
The Best Things to Do in Death Valley National Park
1. Badwater Basin
Of all the things to do in Death Valley, this is definitely the main attraction in the park.
Badwater Basin is the lowest point in North America at 282-feet below sea level. There’s a small parking area here, a boardwalk, and a trail to the salt flats. I highly recommend walking the trail into the basin. There, you can see the white hexagon shapes that spread in all directions.
You can also see some outstanding views from here, looking up to the surrounding mountains. Views are best later in the day when the sun is shining on the mountains.
Don’t forget to take your typical tourist photo with the sign! Depending on the crowds, there may be a line of people waiting.
Look closely at the mountain behind the parking lot and you might spot the sign for sea level.
Distance from Furnace Creek: 30 minutes one-way
2. Zabriskie Point
Another one of my favorite things to do in Death Valley, the area around Zabriskie Point is stunning. The main attraction is the rock formation above, juxtaposed by the mountains in the distance. You can also walk a trail below these badlands to take it in from a different angle.
Zabriskie Point is probably most famous for its incredible sunrises and sunsets. Photographers will flock here to snap the perfect shot, so arrive early if you’re hoping to do the same.
From the parking area, you’ll walk a short 1/4-mile paved path to the viewpoint. Another one of Death Valley’s main things to see, you’re basically required to stop here at some point during your visit. There are great hiking trails through the badlands as well.
Distance from Furnace Creek: 15 minutes one-way
3. Devils Hole
Did you know that there are special species of Pupfish that only live in one small pool?
Here, at a satellite area of Death Valley National Park in Nevada, you’ll find the only home of the Devils Hole pupfish in a pool of water that remains a consistent 93°F.
The Devils Hole pupfish is extremely small and resilient. They are considered critically endangered due to their extremely limited habitat. Attempts have been made to create additional habitats for them, but none have succeeded. In 2013, there were only 35 known to exist. As of 2019, the number has increased to 136.
This is one of the more unique things to do in Death Valley National Park, and one of the least common. This is a great option if you want to avoid crowds. It is a bit farther from the other attractions in the park, so I would save it for when you have extra time.
Distance from Furnace Creek: 37 miles one-way
4. Artists Drive And Artists Palette
When driving back to Furnace Creek from Badwater Basin, take a detour on the one-way Artists Drive. One of the best things to do in Death Valley, I promise you won’t regret the extra mileage.
On the 9-mile drive, you’ll find your jaw falling open as you marvel at the colorful hills. Stop at Artists Palette (pictured above) along the drive to get out and walk around.
Various scenes from the Star Wars IV: A New Hope, like when R2-D2 gets kidnapped by the sand people, were also shot around this area.
This is something you seriously can’t miss when you visit Death Valley.
Distance from Furnace Creek: 15 minutes one-way
More Information on Star Wars Filming Locations: click here
5. Devils Golf Course
Near Badwater Basin is another out-of-this-world landscape, the Devils Golf Course. It was named because the terrain is so difficult that only the Devil could play golf here.
Years and years ago, a lake called Lake Manly was located here but has since evaporated. Based on scientific research, it’s possible that these salt and gravel beds have a depth of 9,000 feet!
You’ll take an unpaved road to the parking area, then walk a short, easy distance for the best views. The road is usually suitable for vehicles with 2-wheel drive, but check with park rangers in Furnace Creek to be sure.
Distance from Furnace Creek: 30 minutes one-way
6. Dante’s View
This is one of the most breathtaking scenes in Death Valley that is easily accessible by car.
From the top of Dante’s View, you can see both Telescope Peak and the Badwater Basin, the highest and lowest points in the park, respectively. You can also see a rift in the earth’s crust where the mountains are (slowly) moving in opposite directions.
There is an ADA-accessible viewing platform that is only a short distance from the parking area.
You may also recognize this view from Star Wars IV: A New Hope. This is where Luke Skywalker, Ben Kenobi, and the two droids stop at a cliff and peer over Mos Eisley. In reality, there are no cantinas here, only saltwater basins.
On our trip, we stopped here on our way out of the park and it was the perfect way to say goodbye after two days in Death Valley. After exploring many of the best things to do in Death Valley, consider coming here and overlooking the terrain you’ve traversed.
It’s also another great place for sunset or sunrise.
Distance from Furnace Creek: 1 hour one way
7. Mesquite Flats Sand Dunes
If you’ve ever wanted to take some epic, so-cool-they-seem-fake photos on some sand dunes, this is one of the best things to see in Death Valley.
You’ll pass the Mesquite Salt Flats on Highway 190 on your way to/from Panamint Springs. While you can see the sand dunes from your vehicle, the best way to experience them is to get out and hike around. You’ll drive down a short, unpaved road to a small parking area to begin your walk. The road is decent and usually okay with a 2WD vehicle. If you have the appropriate vehicle, you can also visit the Panamint Dunes for a less-crowded option.
Distance from Furnace Creek: 30 minutes one-way
8. Keane Wonder Mine
This historic gold mine is over 100-years old, and its trams used to carry up to 70 tons of gold in one day.
You may notice on the map of things to do in Death Valley that this site is currently closed. That may be true for sections, however, there are still other remnants to check out.
Near the parking lot are the Keane Wondermill and Tramway Area, the sites of the mine and camp.
If you do decide to visit, beware of hazards in the area and read this before you go. The road can be rough, so you may want to stop by the Furnace Creek Visitor Center to check conditions before you go.
Distance from Furnace Creek: 35 minutes one-way
9. Rainbow Canyon
If you enter Death Valley National Park on the western side near Independence, you’re in for a treat.
On your way from Independence to Furnace Creek, this is one of the most beautiful places to see in Death Valley. Known to some as “Star Wars Canyon” and others as “Jedi Transition”, the true name is Rainbow Canyon.
The U.S. Air Force and Navy both use the canyon for low-flight training, and if you stop by you may be lucky enough to watch. There is no public schedule, so you have to luck out with your timing. If you see a plethora of cameras and tripods set up as you drive by, that’s a good sign a flight may take place.
You’ll park near an overlook called Father Crowley Vista Point and take in the view. Even if planes aren’t flying, the scenery is spectacular.
Distance from Furnace Creek: 1.5 hours one-way
10. Ubehebe Crater
This 600-feet deep crater is what remains after a massive volcanic eruption hundreds of years ago. It’s also over a 1/2-mile wide! The volcanic magma mixed with an underground spring causing the water to become steam resulting in such high pressure that an explosion occurred.
This is one of Death Valley’s most stunning geologic features. It’s a bit out of the way and far from other attractions in Death Valley, but worth the trip if you have time.
Distance from Furnace Creek: 1.5 hours one-way
11. Mosaic Canyon
One of my personal favorite things to do in Death Valley is the hike through Mosaic Canyon. While the trail can be difficult, you only need to hike the first 1/2-mile or so to see some of its most beautiful twists and corners.
You’ll need to drive on an unpaved road to reach the parking area.
This hike can be extremely narrow, and may not be best for people with claustrophobia. There’s also limited shade and no water, so come prepared. For more information and a map, check out this page.
Distance from Furnace Creek: 45 minutes one-way
12. The Racetrack Playa
Of all the attractions in Death Valley National Park, Racetrack Playa may be the most famous.
You’ve undoubtedly heard of the mysterious sailing stones at some point. For years, no one knew what caused these stones to move and leave their “racetracks” behind. In 2017, a documentary was released explaining the cause and how it was discovered (spoiler alert: wind). The area is dry nearly year-round with no vegetation, making the scene even more striking.
The unpaved road to the Racetrack can be very rough. It is essential that you have a high-clearance vehicle to reach the Racetrack, and 4-wheel drive is recommended but not always necessary. Bring extra tires with you as well; many flat tires have been reported on this road. As always, check with Park Rangers for the latest conditions.
Distance from Furnace Creek: 3 hours one-way
13. Scotty’s Castle
Another famous landmark in Death Valley is Scotty’s Castle. While Walter Scott (or “Death Valley Scotty”) claimed to have built the castle with money made from his secret mines, the true artist was Albert Johnson. He built it as a vacation getaway for him and his wife, Bessie.
Sadly, in 2015, damage from horrific flash floods resulted in a closure of Scotty’s Castle. One room in the castle was covered in mud four feet deep!
After restoration work, it was partially re-opened in early 2020. As of this posting, tours are required and only available at certain times of the year. The tours focus on flood recovery. They can be booked here, and fill up quickly.
Distance from Furnace Creek: 1 hour one-way
14. Wildrose Charcoal Kilns
After all of our talk about Star Wars in this post, it may surprise you to learn that this was not one of the filming locations. The minute I saw these huts, I thought of the Star Wars films. They seemed like the perfect homes for reclusive Jedi on Tatooine.
Located in Wildrose Canyon, the kilns were built in 1876 to provide fuel to process silver and lead ore. Today, they’re some of the best-preserved kilns in the Western United States. When you enter, you can still smell the scent of burns.
Driving to the Kilns is one of the best things to do in Death Valley that is off the beaten path, but worth the trip for the scenery and cultural history. It’s also on the way to some great hikes in the park. If you have the time, it’s worth a visit.
Distance from Furnace Creek: 1.5 hours one-way
Where to Stay in Death Valley
There are a total of five lodges within the park.
- The Ranch: Of the hotels in Furnace Creek, this is the significantly cheaper option. It’s an older hotel, but the location can’t be beaten.
- The Inn: This 4-star hotel is much nicer than the Ranch, and therefore twice as expensive. Be prepared to shell out the cash for any luxury. Located in Furnace Creek.
- Panamint Springs Motel: This place doesn’t have great reviews, but if you’re hoping to save money it may be your best option. Located in Panamint Springs.
- The Inn Casitas: The third property in Furnace Creek is also the newest.
- Stovepipe Wells: There’s a hotel, restaurant, and gift shop located in this small complex just a few minutes north of Furnace Creek in Stovepipe Wells.
Camping in Death Valley National Park
In total, there are nine campgrounds in Death Valley National Park. By far, this is the cheapest lodging in Death Valley. You can read more about the campgrounds here.
- Furnace Creek: This is the only campground that accepts reservations (during the peak winter season). It is open year-round.
- Sunset and Texas Springs: These campgrounds are also located in Furnace Creek.
- Stovepipe Wells: This is another year-round campground in the park. It’s about 30 minutes away from Furnace Creek if you’d like a little quiet but don’t want to be too far away from the center of the park.
- Mesquite Springs: About 1 hour and 15 minutes from Furnace Creek for a more remote experience. Open year-round.
- Emigrant: This is a tents-only campground about 40 minutes from Furnace Creek.
- Wildrose, Thorndike, and Mahogony Flat: Typically closed in winter due to snow, but open in the summer season. Located at higher elevations for some cooler air.
What to Pack for Exploring Death Valley
Guidebooks
I’m a big believer in guidebooks. My favorites are the ones written by Lonely Planet as they’re the most detailed while also managing to be the most concise. I have the National Parks guidebook below as well as the USA guidebook and many other worldwide destinations. I download the e-books and then they’re with me everywhere I go on my travels, significantly lightening my load.
I also carry (and collect) the Trails Illustrated maps of national parks. They’re sturdy, waterproof, and provide a great overview. If I’m backpacking or hiking, I’ll purchase a topographic map that is centered on the area I’m in so that I have more detail. But for road tripping or to have the big picture in your hands, Trails Illustrated is the way to go. They create maps for U.S. National Parks as well as international destinations.
Some more favorites include the Falcon Guides for hiking. These detail everything you need to know from how to get to places, trail distances, and elevation changes. Moon Guides are my runner-up to Lonely Planet but still have great information. Last but not least, I love learning about the places I visit by reading about them. I’ll do this through books or vehement internet research, but there’s just something about holding that book in your hands, am I right?
Purchase some of my recommendations below. You can also find more Death Valley-related books and souvenirs on the official website.
Death Valley National Park Phone Case
Death Valley National Park Pennant
Fodor’s Guide to the 63 National Parks
Women’s National Parks Checklist T-Shirt
Women’s National Parks Checklist T-Shirt
Map of National Parks T-Shirt
Death Valley National Park Sticker
Death Valley National Park Pin
Death Valley National Park Patch
63 National Parks Water Bottle
Death Valley National Park Sticker
Death Valley Sticker
California National Parks Face Mask
Death Valley National Park Map
The 10 Hiking Essentials
Every hiker should always carry the ten essentials with them. These include:
- Navigation systems: map, compass, and/or GPS
- Sun protection: sunscreen and/or ballcap
- Insulating layers: synthetic or down jacket, rain jacket, hat, gloves, and leggings
- Illumination (flashlight or headlamp)
- First-aid kit
- Something to light a fire: lighter, waterproof matches, and/or fire starter
- Repair kits and tools: pocket knife, duct tape, screwdriver, and/or scissors
- Emergency shelter: tent, bivy, tarp, and/or space blanket
- Nutrition: food for both meals and snacks
- Hydration: water bottle, water treatment (LifeStraw or SteriPen), and water
For camping, you’ll want to make sure you pack the basic supplies.
- Tent
- Tarp or ground cover
- Sleeping bag
- Sleeping pad
- Camp pillow
- Light source: flashlight, lantern, or headlamp
- Cook set, stove, utensil, and fuel
For more of my recommendations, check out my posts on my favorite outdoor gear and best daypacks for women.
Pin Top Things to Do in Death Valley National Park
Well, there you have it – the best things to do in Death Valley National Park. What are your favorites? Is there anything I missed?
Death Valley NP looks so interesting. My husband and I are trying to take our kids to as many national parks as we can before they leave home so we’ll most likely visit one of these days.
It was spectacular! There’s so much more to do that lists like this could never encapsulate everything. Truly a gem of the National Park system.
What a stunning area! I realize there is a lot of life there, but it does look very empty and rocky when you are used to the greens of the Pacific North West.
I really love the names of the places and landmarks! I mean, Dantes View, Rainbow Canyon and Devils Golf Course!? The early settlers had great sense of humor.
It’s a whole different world of life 🙂 There are so many more super creative names! So many go along with the death theme, it’s super interesting.
I have wanted to visit Death Valley for years, but haven’t made it there yet. The landscape is incredibly striking and the camping looks good too!
It truly is like no place else! I hope you make it there soon.
Excellent post with quality content! I can’t wait for my trip one day!
Thank you! I hope you get to visit soon.
This is on my bucket list!!! Thanks for the tips and beautiful photos! Keeping this post for later! 🙂
I hope you make it there one day – it’s unbelievable!