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Death Valley, United States

Destination Guide

Death Valley

United States

Best things to do in Death Valley

17 curated attractions in Death Valley, United States. Handpicked for every kind of traveler.

Best time

October - April

Average temp

25°C/77°F

Budget

Expensive

Safety

Generally safe

About Death Valley

Death Valley is one of the hottest places on Earth, which explains its name and the extreme landscapes that come with it. Home to Furnace Creek Visitor Center, it features the lowest point in North America at Badwater Basin, where the views of salt flats stretch endlessly. The surrounding terrain includes everything from the colorful rocks of Artist's Palette to the haunting beauty of the Racetrack Playa, where stones mysteriously move across the dry lake bed. The park is known for its stark contrasts: sand dunes at Mesquite Flat, towering mountains at Dante's View, and the eerie formations at Devil's Golf Course. Visitors come primarily for the dramatic scenery and the chance to experience one of the most inhospitable environments on the planet, but it is not for the faint of heart or those who struggle with heat.

Who it's for

Ideal for adventurous souls and photographers looking to capture unique landscapes. Not a great choice for those seeking typical tourist amenities or anything resembling comfort, as the heat can be overwhelming and public transport is practically non-existent.

Getting around

Public transport: Poor

  • The park is best explored by car, as attractions are spread out and public transport options are very limited
  • Furnace Creek to Badwater Basin is about a 30-minute drive
  • Expect to drive an hour from one end of the park to the other
  • Hiking trails vary in length and difficulty, so plan accordingly
Harmony Borax Works

Harmony Borax Works

Ancient ruins & archaeological sites
Artists Drive

Artists Drive

Nature
Golden Canyon

Golden Canyon

Rivers, canyons & gorges
Mosaic Canyon Trail

Mosaic Canyon Trail

Hiking trails
Titus Canyon

Titus Canyon

Rivers, canyons & gorges
Artist's Palette

Artist's Palette

Deserts & dunes
Ubehebe Crater

Ubehebe Crater

Mountains & volcanoes
Devil's Golf Course

Devil's Golf Course

Deserts & dunes
Racetrack Playa

Racetrack Playa

Deserts & dunes
Dante's View

Dante's View

Scenic viewpoints
Zabriskie Point

Zabriskie Point

Scenic viewpoints
Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes

Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes

Deserts & dunes
Badwater Basin

Badwater Basin

Deserts & dunes
Furnace Creek Visitor Center

Furnace Creek Visitor Center

Science & natural history museums
Death Valley National Park Museum

Death Valley National Park Museum

Science & natural history museums
Salt Creek Interpretive Trail

Salt Creek Interpretive Trail

Hiking trails
Scotty's Castle

Scotty's Castle

Historic houses & mansions

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