Death Valley National Park is easily one of the most unique environmental areas in the United States. Not only does it boast a diverse range of wildlife and landscapes—from dry deserts to towering mountaintops—but it also holds several impressive records. It’s home to the lowest point in North America at Badwater Basin, and at Furnace Creek Ranch, the hottest temperature ever recorded on Earth was logged: a staggering 134.1 degrees Fahrenheit (56.7 degrees Celsius).
Death Valley National Park is truly unlike any other. Its mysteries and mind-boggling landmarks draw curiosity and wonder from both local and international visitors alike. As visitors to the park ourselves, we’ve crafted this guide to help you make the most of your time there. So let’s hit the road together and unpack everything you need to know about visiting this iconic American destination!
A Brief History of Death Valley National Park
Long before it became a national park in 1933, the region was inhabited by the Timbisha Shoshone people, who called the land Tümpisa, meaning “rock paint,” in reference to the red ochre found in the area. The Timbisha people lived in the region for at least 1,000 years, adapting to the extreme environment through seasonal migration and reliance on mesquite beans, pinyon nuts, and hunting for sustenance. Much of the land’s history has been passed down orally, though some is preserved in petroglyphs and pictographs, especially in places like Titus Canyon and Mesquite Flat.
The first Western-style documentation of Death Valley came during European exploration and the California Gold Rush of 1849. Among those seeking prosperity in the American West were young pioneers from Vermont. In 1849, a wagon train known as the Bennett-Arcane Party set out for gold, becoming the first European-American group to cross Death Valley and live to tell the tale. Many nearly perished in the brutal climate. When they were finally rescued and escaped the arid valley, one member is said to have looked back and proclaimed, “Goodbye, Death Valley,” thus coining the park’s name.
Mining in the area boomed in the 1800s with the discovery of borax, a mineral commonly used in cleaning products. This triggered the rapid rise of settlements and towns as prospectors rushed in. However, the minerals quickly dried up, and once-thriving towns became ghost towns. Today, places like Rhyolite and Chloride City remain abandoned. Chloride City, in particular, has a mysterious past and features the solitary grave of an unknown man named James McKay.
In the early 20th century, the area began to attract tourists. One major draw was Scotty’s Castle, a Spanish-style villa that became a popular destination. Notable visitors included legendary photographer and environmentalist Ansel Adams and Western novelist Zane Grey, who drew inspiration from Death Valley for his book Wanderer of the Wasteland.
President Herbert Hoover designated Death Valley a national monument in February 1933, and it officially gained national park status in 1994 through the California Desert Protection Act. Today, it welcomes over a million visitors each year.
Best Time to Visit Death Valley National Park
Given Death Valley’s reputation for extreme heat, the best time to visit is during the cooler months—from mid-October to mid-April.
Fall sees fewer crowds than spring, with daytime temperatures ranging from the 60s to 80s Fahrenheit (15–27°C) and cooler evenings.
Winter is ideal for exploring lower elevations like Badwater Basin, where the temperatures are far more pleasant. Daytime temperatures range from the 40s to 60s Fahrenheit (4–20°C), although higher elevations may see snow and ice. Winter also tends to be less crowded.
Spring is the busiest season, as thousands come to witness the blooming wildflowers. While it’s a magical time to visit, expect large crowds—especially around Presidents’ Day and Spring Break.
Summer is by far the most challenging time to visit. Temperatures regularly soar to 110–125°F (43–52°C), making most outdoor activities unsafe. Unless you’re planning to drive through, take a few photos, and leave quickly, we strongly discourage summer visits.
The best time to arrive at the park is early in the morning between 6 a.m. and 8 a.m. You’ll beat the crowds, secure parking, and enjoy cooler hiking temperatures. The park is busiest from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., when most tour buses and day-trippers from Las Vegas arrive.
How Much Does It Cost to Visit Death Valley National Park?
A trip to Death Valley is well worth the cost. A standard entrance pass is valid for seven days and includes unlimited entry and exit. Prices are:
- $30 per private vehicle
- $25 per motorcycle
- $15 per person for pedestrians or cyclists
If you plan to visit more than once in a year, consider the Annual Pass for $55. It pays for itself in just two or three visits.
For travelers visiting multiple national parks or federal recreation sites, the America the Beautiful Pass is a great deal. It provides access to over 2,000 federal recreation areas and 60+ national parks. It covers one vehicle or entry for up to four people on foot and costs $80 online.
Passes can be purchased at Furnace Creek Visitor Center, Stovepipe Wells Ranger Station, or in advance online. We recommend the latter to save time—print your pass before arrival. Note: as of 2023, the park is cashless. Only credit or debit cards are accepted.
All national parks, including Death Valley, will offer free admission on the following days:
- National Day of Mourning for President James Earl Carter Jr.
- Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
- First Day of National Park Week
- Juneteenth National Independence Day
- Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act
- National Public Lands Day
- Veterans Day
Free entry or complimentary annual passes are also available for U.S. fourth graders, U.S. citizens with disabilities, current U.S. military members and their dependents, as well as Gold Star Families and veterans.
How to Get to Death Valley National Park
By Car
- From Las Vegas: Most travelers visit Death Valley National Park on a day trip from Las Vegas. The route follows U.S. Route 95 South and State Route 373, covering about 120 miles and taking roughly two to two and a half hours one way, depending on traffic. There are fewer gas stations as you get closer to the park, so we highly recommend filling up your tank before leaving Vegas.
- From Los Angeles: While it’s not feasible to visit Death Valley National Park on a day trip, some travelers drive up for a weekend in the park. To get there, follow I-15 North to California Highway 127, then head east on CA-190 until you reach the park entrance. The drive is roughly 250 miles and takes anywhere from three to five hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
By Guided Tour from Las Vegas
Taking a guided tour is an excellent option for those who prefer not to drive. If you’re planning a day trip, we recommend this Full-Day Tour from Las Vegas. This highly-rated tour includes a stop at Rhyolite (one of the area’s famous ghost towns), a buffet breakfast, drinking water, entrance fees to the park, and a knowledgeable guide.
For those who want to experience Golden Hour and stargazing in the park, we recommend this Full-Day and Starry Night Tour from Las Vegas. You’ll spend a full day exploring areas like Furnace Creek, Badwater Basin, and Dante’s View, and finish your day under the pollution-free night skies at Zabriskie Point—a stargazing experience you won’t forget.
How Much Time Should I Spend in Death Valley National Park?
While it’s entirely doable to visit Death Valley National Park on a day trip, we highly recommend spending at least one night in or near the park. This gives you more time to explore its rich and varied landscapes and allows you to experience one of its most dazzling features—its night sky. In 2013, Death Valley National Park was recognized as a Gold Tier International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association, making it one of the best places in the world for stargazing.
Suggested Two-Day Death Valley National Park Itinerary
Below is our suggested itinerary for travelers visiting Death Valley from Las Vegas. This itinerary is very manageable if you leave Vegas early in the morning (between 6 and 7 a.m.). You’ll beat the morning traffic and arrive at the park between 8 and 9 a.m., ahead of the crowds.
If you only have one day in the park, follow the Day 1 itinerary. Depending on your interests, you may wish to swap out Golden Canyon for the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes.
Day 1 in Death Valley National Park
- Dante’s View: One of the park’s most iconic viewpoints, offering jaw-dropping views of Badwater Basin and the Panamint Range from 5,475 feet above the valley floor. It’s a short, paved walk—about 20 minutes roundtrip. We recommend doing this first to beat the crowds.
- Twenty Mule Team Canyon: A scenic 2.7-mile one-way dirt road through colorful badlands. This drive typically takes 20–30 minutes and offers a dramatic taste of the desert landscape.
- Zabriskie Point: A classic overlook offering sweeping views of golden badlands backed by the Funeral Mountains. It’s a favorite for photos and only a 0.25-mile roundtrip walk.
- Devil’s Golf Course: An area of jagged, surreal salt formations. It was named because, according to former park workers, “only the devil could play golf here.” The site is easily accessible from Badwater Road, with a short 5–10-minute walk from the parking area.
- Badwater Basin: Walk out onto North America’s lowest elevation point. This salt flat hike usually takes about 40 minutes but can be longer if you want to explore deeper into the basin.
- Artists Drive and Artists Palette: A nine-mile one-way loop through vibrant mineral-colored hills. The colors are especially vivid in the late afternoon light, making this an ideal stop as the day cools down.
- Golden Canyon–Gower Gulch Loop Hike: End the day with a 4.3-mile loop through narrow canyons and striking rock formations. The hike takes around two to two and a half hours.
Day 2 in Death Valley National Park
- Ubehebe Crater: A striking 600-foot-deep volcanic crater. Hike the 1.5-mile loop around the rim in about 45–60 minutes.
- Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes: Iconic, freeform dunes you can wander without a designated trail. Spend about an hour here to find peaceful, surreal spots to relax and soak in the views.
- Mosaic Canyon: A 4-mile roundtrip slot canyon trail with polished rock walls, narrow passages, and fun scrambles. This in-and-out hike takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours.
Where to Stay in Death Valley National Park
Hotels
If you’re planning to visit Death Valley National Park over several days, you’ll want to ensure you have comfortable accommodations. One of the best options near the park is The Ranch at Death Valley. This historic resort was once a working ranch in the 19th century but has since been transformed into a family-friendly hotel featuring tennis courts, a swimming pool, and four on-site restaurants. Guests can choose to book a private Spanish-style cottage or a room in the main hotel area.
Another excellent choice is The Inn at Death Valley. Originally known as Furnace Creek Inn, this historic resort was built in 1927 as part of an initiative to promote tourism in the area. Today, it retains its old-world charm while offering modern amenities such as a spa and wellness center, an outdoor pool, two on-site restaurants, and a business center. Guests can stay in casitas (small villas) that accommodate up to four people or book a standard room in the main building. All accommodations include air conditioning and a desk.
Stovepipe Wells Village is ideal for those looking to RV camp or stay in a hotel. This village-style resort offers a range of amenities including an on-site restaurant, saloon, general store, pool, gas station, EV charging station, and community firepit. Guests can choose between newer standard rooms and historic rooms, while RV sites are available for vehicles up to 40 feet in length.
If you’re looking for a hotel on the southeast side of the park, consider Amargosa Opera House & Hotel at Death Valley Junction. Once a bustling hub for borax miners in the 1920s, the town was nearly abandoned by 1967—until a New York dancer, Marta Becket, purchased the property and created an opera house where she performed for decades. Today, visitors can stay in one of the hotel’s air-conditioned suites next door to the world-famous opera house.
Campgrounds
Camping options in Death Valley are more limited between April 15 and October 15. During this time, Furnace Creek Campground is one of the only year-round campgrounds in operation. It offers both RV and tent sites. Notably, it is also the only campground in the park that takes reservations, which are required at least two days in advance and can be made up to six months ahead of your arrival. Booking early is highly recommended.
Another popular choice is Texas Springs Campground, which operates on a first-come, first-served basis from mid-October through April 15. It offers tent-only sites and amenities such as potable water, flush toilets, trash removal, and a dump station.
Sunset Campground, conveniently located in Furnace Creek, is another great option. Amenities include a camp store, dump station, potable water, trash removal, and flush toilets. While fire pits are not allowed at individual sites, two community fire pits are maintained by staff. This pet-friendly campground also operates on a first-come, first-served basis. With a large number of sites, it rarely fills up—even during holidays.
Stovepipe Wells Campground sits near the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes and the Stovepipe Wells Ranger Station, offering great proximity to attractions and facilities. Just across the street is the Stovepipe Wells Village Hotel with its own restaurant and bar. The campground features roughly 28 tent sites, along with a general store, dump station, potable water, flush toilets, and wood and ice for sale. Like many others, this campground is first-come, first-served.
Additional campgrounds worth considering include Emigrant Campground and Mesquite Campground, which are open year-round, and Wildrose Campground, which is seasonally available.
Primitive Camping
There are numerous primitive campsites throughout Death Valley National Park, but they require access via a high-clearance, 4×4 vehicle. To explore these more remote options, visit the National Park’s official page for detailed guidelines and recommendations.
What to Pack for Visiting Death Valley National Park
Visitors should make sure they have all the essentials for a safe and enjoyable trip to Death Valley National Park. We recommend bringing a good daypack stocked with a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, a first-aid kit, a portable charger, sturdy hiking shoes, and a warm jacket (especially if visiting in winter). Since food options are limited inside the park, be sure to pack enough hiking snacks and meals to get you through the day. Also, fill up on gas before leaving Las Vegas, as gas stations are scarce near the park. Other useful items include hiking poles, a headlamp (for early morning hikes), and bug spray.
Tips for Visiting Death Valley National Park
Here are a few tips and tricks we learned from our visit to the park:
- Drink Plenty of Water: Death Valley is one of the hottest places on Earth, so staying hydrated is critical. Every year, one or two people die from dehydration and the intense heat. Please be safe—drink water consistently throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Avoid Visiting in Summer: While summer is a great time to visit many national parks, Death Valley’s extreme climate makes it dangerous during this season. Temperatures often reach 120°F (48.9°C), making outdoor activities unsafe. For a more comfortable experience, plan your visit during the cooler months.
- Don’t Underestimate Drive Times: Death Valley spans 3.4 million acres (roughly 13,650 square kilometers), making it the largest national park in the contiguous United States—larger than Yosemite and Yellowstone combined. Travel times within the park can be long. For example, Zabriskie Point and Mosaic Canyon may appear close on a map but are about a 45-minute drive apart.
- Fill Up Your Gas Tank: There are only a few gas stations within the park—located at Furnace Creek, Stovepipe Wells, and Panamint Springs—and they tend to be more expensive than average. It’s best to fill up before entering the park.
- Be Aware of Elevation Changes: Elevation varies drastically in Death Valley. You might visit Badwater Basin in the morning at -282 feet below sea level, then hike Telescope Peak in the afternoon at over 11,000 feet. Lower elevations are hotter and increase dehydration risk, while higher altitudes are cooler but can affect breathing. Pack and plan accordingly.
- Download Maps in Advance: Cell service is limited or nonexistent in most of the park. We highly recommend downloading your road maps and hiking trail guides before your trip. If needed, AT&T had reliable service around Furnace Creek during our visit.
- Bring Sun Protection: Shade is rare in the desert landscape, so bring plenty of sun protection—such as a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen—to protect yourself from the intense sun.
Best Things to Do in Death Valley National Park
Below is our pick of the best things to do in Death Valley.
Golden Canyon Trail
The Golden Canyon Trail is one of the most popular hikes in the park due to its stunning rock formations, accessibility, and variety of routes and difficulty levels. Most visitors opt for the Golden Canyon and Gower Gulch Loop, a moderately rated four-mile trail that winds through narrow canyon passages and colorful rocks. It’s one of the easier treks to embark on, though it does involve a short scramble and typically takes about 2.5 hours to complete.
Hikers can also add the spur trail to Red Cathedral, which extends the hike by an additional mile (1.6 kilometers). Several modified loops and trails are available to accommodate all levels of hikers. To complete the entire circuit, the strenuous 7.8-mile (12.6 km) loop takes roughly 4.5 hours roundtrip. For more information about this hike, click here.
Badwater Basin
Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, is a must-see in the park. This area was once the site of an ancient lake that evaporated tens of thousands of years ago, leaving behind vast salt deposits. Today, geometric salt polygons stretch across the flats where Lake Manly once existed.
Visitors can hike a one-mile out-and-back trail to explore the salt flats, starting from the car park via a boardwalk that leads to the edge of the pool. The walk takes about 40 minutes to complete. Be sure to look up at the surrounding mountains — to the east, a sea level sign is perched on the side of the Black Mountains, and to the west, Telescope Peak rises in the Panamint Range.
Artist’s Drive
One excellent air-conditioned activity is cruising the nine-mile scenic loop known as Artist’s Drive. Of particular interest is Artist’s Palette, a stretch of hills splashed with surreal hues of pink, purple, green, and yellow — the result of mineral oxidation in the rocks. It feels like a landscape straight from a dream.
Artist’s Drive is a one-way loop road that takes 25 to 45 minutes, depending on your pace. Several lookout points offer the chance to stop, take photos, and take in the view — and trust us, you’ll want to.
Devil’s Golf Course
The jagged, crusted salt formations at Devil’s Golf Course are truly out of this world. These sharp and rugged mounds formed after an ancient lake evaporated hundreds of years ago, leaving behind the wild, alien-looking terrain.
It’s a quick stop — just a short walk from the parking area brings you to the flats. Explore carefully, as the sharp rocks demand your full attention.
Darwin Falls
Finding this lush oasis in the middle of the desert feels like something out of a movie. Darwin Falls, one of the park’s few year-round waterfalls, drops about 18.5 feet into a serene, green canyon. While swimming is prohibited to protect the fragile spring ecosystem, the sound of frogs and flowing water is a refreshing reward after your hike.
The trailhead is located on Darwin Road, which was heavily damaged by flooding in 2023. Visitors must now park along CA-190 and walk up the washed-out road, adding 1.2 miles to the route. In total, the hike is now 8.5 miles (13.7 kilometers) round-trip on an unmarked, out-and-back trail. Most hikers complete it in two to five hours.
Zabriskie Point
Zabriskie Viewpoint offers some of the most iconic panoramic views in Death Valley. From here, you can see golden badlands, eroded rock formations, and distant mountain ranges — it’s like stepping into a movie scene.
This is a prime spot for sunrise, sunset, and stargazing. You can reach the viewpoint via a 0.25-mile roundtrip path from the parking lot or incorporate it into a longer hike on the Golden Canyon and Gower Gulch Trail.
Dante’s View
For one of the best vistas in Death Valley, head to Dante’s View. From an elevation of 5,475 feet, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Badwater Basin, the salt flats, and the Panamint Range.
The higher elevation also brings cooler temperatures, a welcome change from the desert heat. No major hiking is required — a 100- to 200-foot walk on a paved path brings you to the overlook.
Twenty Mule Team Canyon
Located just east of Zabriskie Point, Twenty Mule Team Canyon is a short, scenic drive through colorful badlands and rugged terrain. This 2.5-mile one-way dirt road is accessible to most vehicles under dry conditions.
The best time to drive is in the morning or late afternoon, when sunlight creates striking contrasts on the eroded hillsides. Avoid this road after heavy rain, and always check current road conditions at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center before setting out.
Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes
The graceful contours and golden light of the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes make them a must-see. With no defined trails, the dunes invite open exploration — wander as much or as little as you’d like.
The best time to visit is early morning, when the sand is undisturbed and shadows are long. Sunset and sunrise are ideal for photos, and the area is excellent for stargazing. The soft, fine sand and wide expanse create a peaceful, dreamlike environment.
Pro Tip: For a quieter but equally awe-inspiring sand dune experience, consider visiting Eureka Sand Dunes. Towering over 680 feet, they are the tallest in California and among the tallest in North America. Remote and less crowded, Eureka Dunes offer a dramatic desert adventure, but reaching them requires more time and planning.
Ubehebe Crater
Ubehebe Crater is an incredible landmark in Death Valley National Park. This 600-foot-deep volcanic crater is the result of a maar volcano, also known as an explosion pit. Here, molten lava came into contact with groundwater, building up enough pressure to explode and leaving behind this massive crater.
Visitors can walk along the rim and snap some seriously cool photos. There’s also a moderately rated 1.5-mile (2.4-kilometer) loop trail that circles the rim. This trek usually takes 40 to 60 minutes to complete. Adventurous hikers can also descend into the crater—just be prepared for a steep climb back up!
Aguereberry Point
At an elevation of 6,433 feet, Aguereberry Point is a must-visit for those who love panoramic views. From here, you can take in sweeping vistas of Badwater Basin, the Panamint Range, and Furnace Creek. To reach the point, a high-clearance 4×4 vehicle is required, as the access road is narrow and unpaved. Always check current road conditions at the visitor center or on the National Park’s Alerts and Conditions page before setting out.
Telescope Peak
For a real challenge, consider hiking Telescope Peak—the tallest peak in Death Valley National Park. Standing at 11,049 feet, it offers stunning views of the park and the distant Sierra Nevada Mountains. This strenuous out-and-back trail climbs 3,000 feet over 13 miles (21 kilometers), with a brief, gentle ridge section before the final push to the summit. The hike takes approximately seven hours to complete and is rated difficult.
The trailhead is located about 1.5 miles beyond the Charcoal Kilns parking lot. Note that the road beyond the kilns is gravel and may require a 4×4 vehicle, depending on conditions.
Titus Canyon and Rhyolite Ghost Town
Titus Canyon is Death Valley’s most popular backcountry road—and with good reason. Along the route, you can explore ghost towns like Rhyolite and Leadfield, discover Native American petroglyphs at Klare Spring, enjoy panoramic views at Red Pass, or stop for a hike in the canyon itself.
Plan to spend two to four hours exploring this area. A high-clearance, two-wheel-drive vehicle is usually sufficient, but recent weather conditions may require a 4×4. Always check road conditions at the visitor center or online before setting out.
Wildrose Charcoal Kilns
The Wildrose Charcoal Kilns offer a fascinating glimpse into the area’s mining history. Built in the late 1800s to produce charcoal for the Modock Mines 25 miles away, these 25-foot-tall stone kilns are among the best preserved in the western United States. Historians believe they were only in use for about three years.
To reach the kilns, take Emigrant Canyon Road off CA-190 and follow it for roughly 30 miles (a 60–90 minute drive). Most of the road is paved, but the final two miles are gravel, typically accessible by all vehicles. The kilns are located right beside the road.
Visitors can also hike Wildrose Peak from here. This challenging 8.4-mile (13.5-kilometer) out-and-back trail climbs 2,200 feet and rewards hikers with sweeping, 360-degree views of Death Valley and the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It’s a great alternative for those not ready to tackle Telescope Peak—but still a serious workout!
The Racetrack
Located in a remote northern section of Death Valley National Park, The Racetrack is a dry lakebed famous for its mysterious “sailing stones”—rocks that appear to move across the playa, leaving long trails behind. The best place to view these is from the Grandstand, a pair of dark rock mounds that rise from the flat, cracked landscape.
The 26-mile road to The Racetrack begins at Ubehebe Crater and is rough—4×4 and high-clearance vehicles are strongly recommended. From Ubehebe Crater, the drive takes about 1.5 hours; from Furnace Creek, expect a one-way trip of approximately 3.5 hours. Adventurous visitors can also opt to hike the strenuous six-mile trail to Ubehebe Peak for even more dramatic views.
Scotty’s Castle
Nestled in Grapevine Canyon in the northern part of the park, Scotty’s Castle is a Spanish Colonial Revival-style villa built in the 1920s. Interestingly, it’s named not for its builder, Chicago millionaire Albert Mussey Johnson, but for a flamboyant con man named Walter Scott—better known as “Death Valley Scotty.” Scott falsely claimed to have financed the estate with gold from a secret mine, a story that captured the public’s imagination. Despite the deception, Johnson and Scott became close friends, and Johnson allowed Scott to live on the property.
The mansion was severely damaged by flooding in 2015 and has been undergoing extensive repairs. As of 2024, Scotty’s Castle has partially reopened for guided tours! Visitors must book their Flood Recovery Tour in advance through the National Park website.
Natural Bridge
For a short and scenic hike, check out Natural Bridge. Unlike the smooth sandstone arches of Utah, this formation is rugged and raw—but no less stunning. There’s no official trail, but hikers can follow a wash through a narrow canyon to reach the natural bridge. Beyond it, the trail continues to a dry waterfall and hanging canyons.
This one-mile (1.6-kilometer) hike is relatively easy and takes about 45 minutes to complete, making it a great option for families with young children.
FAQ About Death Valley National Park
Do I Need a 4×4 Vehicle to Visit Death Valley National Park?
No, a 4×4 vehicle is not required unless you plan to visit more remote locations such as The Racetrack. However, always check current road conditions in advance on the National Park’s website or at the visitor center.
When Is Death Valley National Park Open?
The park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year! The Furnace Creek Visitor Center is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., including holidays.
Are There Entrance Gates at Death Valley National Park?
No, there are no official entry gates. Visitors can purchase passes at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center, the Stovepipe Wells Ranger Station, or online in advance.
Is Death Valley National Park Dog-Friendly?
Pets are not allowed on trails or salt flats. However, dogs may be walked on some dirt roads. Stop by the visitor center to ask a ranger where pets are permitted.
What Is the Hottest Temperature Recorded at Death Valley National Park?
The hottest temperature ever recorded here—and in the world—is 134°F (57°C), set in July 1913 at Furnace Creek Ranch.
Was Star Wars Filmed in Death Valley?
Yes! Several scenes from the original Star Wars trilogy were filmed in the park, in locations like Dante’s View, Artist’s Palette, Golden Canyon, and the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes.
Whether you’re chasing mysteries, awe-inspiring landscapes, dazzling night skies, or ghost towns with storied pasts, Death Valley delivers intrigue for every kind of traveler. So get ready for an otherworldly adventure—and remember, in Death Valley, the Force (of the sun) is strong!