26 Incredible Things to do in Death Valley National Park

Located in both California and Nevada, Death Valley National Park serves as an exceptional and extreme destination, attracting adventurous travelers worldwide with its desert terrain. It’s well known for its scorching temperatures as the thermometer in Death Valley can reach extreme highs, earning it a reputation as one of the hottest places on Earth. However, don’t be discouraged! With careful preparation and a spirit of adventure, there are still incredible things to do in Death Valley National Park!

We visited Death Valley in 2014 and it was truly a unique experience. Saying that it was “hot” is an understatement and being prepared in this rugged terrain is especially important.

Good to Know Info for Death Valley:

• Prior to going on a hike in any area, it’s extremely important to check with park authorities and/or the visitor center for the latest information and safety recommendations to ensure the trail is open and safe. The information provided here is simply a guide. Always check with park rangers to confirm your plans.

• Any time you visit a natural area, it’s important to stick to established paths to minimize your impact on the ecosystem. 

• When it rains in the desert, flash floods are very common, especially in slot canyons. Therefore, you should NOT begin a hike into a slot canyon if there is a chance of rain. If you are already in a slot canyon and it begins to rain, exit immediately and quickly. 

• Cell service is spotty at best and cannot be relied upon. It’s best to make sure you tell someone who is not traveling with you where you are going and what time you expect to be back just in case you have car trouble or other mishaps. Then if you fail to check-in, they can let park rangers know where you may be.

• There are not many gas stations in the park, so it’s a good idea to keep the tank full especially when you know you’re going on a long drive. 

• If you don’t have a rugged or high-clearance vehicle and you’re planning to travel on non-paved roads, you may want to consider renting a Jeep or a similar vehicle to avoid damaging your own car. 

• Also, if you’re prone to getting motion sickness, consider taking some motion sickness medicine before these non-paved road trips, as the bumpy roads might make you feel queasy.

Incredible Things to do in Death Valley National Park

1. Visit the Furnace Creek Visitor Center 

The Furnace Creek Visitor Center is the primary visitor center and gateway to Death Valley National Park. This visitor center serves as an essential resource for park visitors, providing information, educational exhibits, ranger programs, and orientation to help visitors make the most of their visit to this unique desert environment.

It’s a good idea to begin your journey at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center, where you can gather essential information, plan your activities, visit the gift shop, and gain a deeper appreciation for the natural and cultural wonders of the park. 

2. Visit Star Wars film locations

Did you know that Death Valley was used as a filming location for several scenes in the Star Wars franchise? One of the most iconic Star Wars scenes filmed in Death Valley is from “Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope,” released in 1977. 

You can take a self-guided audio tour of the 7 locations by downloading the National Park App. Within the app, go to “Death Valley National Park”, then “Self-Guided Tours”. 

Some of the areas within Death Valley used in the movie were:

• The backdrop for the fictional desert planet Tatooine, the home planet of Luke Skywalker. 

• The famous scenes of Luke Skywalker looking out at the twin suns of Tatooine and the exterior of Aunt Beru and Uncle Owen’s home.

• The Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes were used to depict the vast desert expanses of Tatooine. These dunes provided the perfect setting for the scenes involving landspeeders and various interactions between the characters.

• Dante’s View, a viewpoint in the Black Mountains overlooking Death Valley, was used as a location for the filming of the Battle of Hoth in “Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back” (1980). This scene depicted the Rebel Alliance’s Echo Base on the ice planet Hoth.

3. Make the Eureka Dunes Sing

The Eureka Dunes are a unique and striking natural feature located in Eureka Valley, within Death Valley. These dunes are renowned not only for their impressive height but also for the mysterious phenomenon known as “singing” or “booming” sands, where the sand emits a low-frequency humming or booming sound when disturbed under certain conditions.

Conditions for singing sands: 

The singing sound occurs when the sand grains on the surface of the dunes rub against each other, creating friction. When disturbed—often by someone walking on the sand or the wind blowing across the dunes—the sand grains slide down the steep slopes, generating vibrations that produce a low-frequency sound resembling a deep hum or boom.

How we heard the singing:

We first hiked to the dune’s ridgeline, which posed a challenge due to the difficulty of walking uphill on sandy ground. As we continued along the dune’s ridgeline, we occasionally heard a faint humming sound, however, whenever we paused to listen, the humming would stop. We soon realized that us walking caused the sand to fall down the dune’s slope, creating the humming noise. Interestingly, it appeared that only the side of the dune exposed to the sun produced the sound, suggesting the sun plays a role.

4. Witness the Moving Rocks at Racetrack Playa:

The Racetrack Playa, or just The Racetrack, is famous for its mysterious moving rocks. These rocks, which can weigh several hundred pounds, seemingly glide across the playa’s flat surface, leaving long tracks behind them. The phenomenon has intrigued scientists and visitors for decades, and while it was long considered a mystery, its underlying mechanism has since been solved.

The key to understanding the movement of the rocks lies in a unique combination of natural factors. First, Racetrack Playa is a dry lakebed, and when it rains, a shallow layer of water can cover the playa’s surface. In the winter months, this water can freeze, creating a thin sheet of ice. Second, the playa is surrounded by the Cottonwood Mountains, which feature sharp, jagged peaks. When strong winds blow down from these mountains, they can push the ice sheets along with embedded rocks across the playa.

As the wind moves the ice, it drags the rocks along the muddy lakebed, creating furrows or trails in the playa’s surface. The ice acts as a lubricant, allowing even the heaviest rocks to be pushed with relative ease. Over time, the combination of wind and ice can result in the rocks’ gradual movement, leaving behind the distinctive trails that have mystified observers for years.

Visitors to Racetrack Playa can see the evidence of this phenomenon in the form of the long tracks left behind by the moving rocks. These tracks can extend for hundreds of feet, and the patterns they create are often highly intricate and fascinating to observe.

While the mystery of the moving rocks has been solved, witnessing this phenomenon firsthand remains a unique experience. 

Good to know about the Racetrack:

At the time of our visit in 2014, the road back to the Racetrack was an unpaved road and a bumpy 2-hour car ride one-way. Totally worth it, just be prepared. 

5. Drive the back road of Titus Canyon

Titus Canyon is a canyon you can drive through and is known for its striking rock formations, narrow passages, and the historical remnants of the mining era. While it’s accessible year-round, it’s advisable to check road conditions and weather forecasts before your visit, as the road through the canyon can become impassable during heavy rains.

As you explore the canyon, you’ll be surrounded by towering colorful rock walls that can reach up to 400 feet (122 meters) in height. This narrow section of the canyon is particularly photogenic and provides excellent opportunities for photography. The canyon cuts through various rock layers, showcasing the complex geology of the Death Valley region. 

To visit Titus Canyon, you’ll need to access it from the east side of Death Valley National Park, near the town of Beatty, Nevada. The one-way Titus Canyon Road takes you through a scenic drive, winding its way through the Grapevine Mountains and eventually leading you into the canyon itself. he road can be rough and is often recommended for high-clearance vehicles, especially if you want to drive through the entire canyon. 

We ended up shredding a tire while driving this route, and it’s not heavily patrolled, so make sure you have a least one spare tire with you!​

6. Explore the Historical Harmony Borax Works:

The Harmony Borax Works is a historical site located in Death Valley and offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s mining history during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This site played a pivotal role in the borax mining industry, which was instrumental in the economic development of the American West.

Borax, a naturally occurring mineral composed of sodium, boron, oxygen, and water, was in high demand for various industrial purposes, including cleaning products and as a flux in metallurgy.

The site is most famous for its use of 20-mule teams to transport borax from the mines to the nearest railroad siding, located roughly 165 miles away in the town of Mojave, California. The 20-mule teams became an iconic symbol of the borax mining industry and were featured in marketing campaigns.

The Harmony Borax Works ceased operations in 1888, however, the site was later preserved and designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1977, ensuring that the history and significance of the borax industry in Death Valley would be remembered and celebrated.

Today, the site features interpretive signs and displays that offer historical context and information about the borax extraction process. Additionally, a short, self-guided trail takes visitors through the remnants of the borax works, allowing them to see the ruins of the old buildings, the evaporation pond, and the wagons used by the famous 20-mule teams.

7. Hike to the Top of Telescope Peak:

Telescope Peak is a majestic mountain located within Death Valley National Park, and it stands as the highest point in the park. This natural wonder offers a stark contrast to the scorching lowlands of Death Valley, as it rises to an elevation of 11,043 feet (3,366 meters). 

Hiking to Telescope Peak is a popular activity for hiking enthusiasts. The most common trail to the summit is the Telescope Peak Trail, which starts at Mahogany Flat Campground. It’s a very challenging but rewarding hike, spanning approximately 7 miles (11.3 kilometers) one-way and expected to take about 7 hours roundtrip. It’s important to know that a high-clearance vehicle is recommended to drive the final 1.5 miles to the trailhead/campground because of the steep and rough road. If you do not have a high-clearance vehicle, it’s recommended to park at the Charcoal Kilns and walk the road to the trailhead.

One of the main attractions of Telescope Peak is the breathtaking panoramic views it provides. From the summit, you can gaze out across Death Valley, offering a unique perspective of the seemingly endless salt flats, rugged canyons, and stark desert landscape. On clear days, you can even see the Sierra Nevada Mountains to the west and the Mojave Desert to the south.

While Telescope Peak is accessible year-round, it’s important to note that winter months often bring snow and ice to the higher elevations, which can make the trail more challenging. Summer months can be brutally hot in the lower parts of the trail, so many hikers prefer to tackle this trek during the spring or fall when the weather is milder.

8. Explore the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes:

In the heart of Death Valley National Park, the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes are a remarkable natural wonder that summon visitors from far and wide. Situated in the central part of the park, these dunes are a captivating contrast to the rugged desert terrain that surrounds them. 

Exploring the dunes on foot is an adventure in itself, but it’s important to be prepared. There are no designated trails here, allowing you to wander and discover your own path through the sandy landscape. However, walking on sand can be physically demanding, especially in the desert’s heat, so bring plenty of water and wear appropriate footwear.

In addition to their scenic beauty, the remote location of the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes makes them an ideal spot for stargazing. As night falls and the desert skies come alive with stars, you can immerse yourself in the wonders of the cosmos from this tranquil desert setting.

9. Canyoner in Golden Canyon:

Golden Canyon is a popular hiking destination in Death Valley, known for its striking, narrow canyons and vibrant golden-hued rock formations. It’s easily accessible from the park’s Furnace Creek area, making it a frequently visited site.

The canyon gets its name from the colorful mineral deposits that line its walls. The primary attraction here is the Golden Canyon trail that winds its way through the canyon’s narrow passages. The trail is well-marked and moderately strenuous, making it suitable for hikers of various skill levels. The most popular hike is the trek to the Red Cathedral, a towering rock formation at the end of the canyon that offers impressive views of the surrounding desert.

The hike to the Red Cathedral covers approximately 3 miles (round trip) and showcases the rugged beauty of the Mojave Desert. Along the way, hikers will encounter unique geological features, including intricate rock layers, exposed sedimentary rocks, and eroded sandstone formations. It’s a fascinating journey through the desert’s geological history.

Golden Canyon also serves as the starting point for a longer and more challenging hike known as the Golden Canyon to the Gower Gulch Loop. This loop extends for about 4.3 miles, providing a deeper exploration of the area’s scenic wonders. It’s important to note that during the summer months, the canyon can become extremely hot, so hiking in the early morning or late afternoon is recommended, and carrying plenty of water is essential.

Aside from its geological attractions, Golden Canyon is known for its connection to the nearby Artist’s Palette, an area famous for its colorful mineral deposits. Many visitors combine a trip to Golden Canyon with a scenic drive through Artist’s Palette to witness the array of vibrant colors created by various minerals in the rocks.

10. Admire the Colors of Artist’s Palette:

Artist’s Palette is a unique and visually striking geological feature located within Death Valley National Park. This captivating site is known for its vibrant and diverse range of colors, which have been created by various minerals and mineral oxides deposited within the rock formations.

The name “Artist’s Palette” is derived from the vivid and artistic appearance of the rocks, which resemble a painter’s palette filled with an array of rich and contrasting hues. The colors are the result of different mineral deposits and oxidation processes. Iron, manganese, and other elements have interacted with the volcanic rocks and clay minerals over millions of years, creating the unique pigments that paint the landscape.

Visitors can experience Artist’s Palette by driving along Artists Drive, a one-way, paved loop road that winds through the colorful formations. The road provides several designated pullouts and viewpoints where you can stop, admire the scenery, and take photographs. It’s an easy and accessible way to appreciate the beauty of this geological wonder.

As with other areas in Death Valley National Park, Artist’s Palette is best enjoyed during the cooler months, as temperatures in the summer can be extremely hot. The colors are particularly vibrant during the late afternoon when the low angle of the sun accentuates the hues and textures of the rocks.

While the primary attraction at Artist’s Palette is the colorful geological formations, the site also offers an opportunity for visitors to learn about the geological processes that have shaped the region. Interpretive signs at the viewpoint provide information about the minerals and geology of the area, adding educational value to the visit.

11. Drive the Artists Drive:

If you prefer a more leisurely way to experience the park without extensive walking, consider taking the Artists Drive. This picturesque, one-way paved road runs 9 miles (14.5 km) and provides a scenic tour of various volcanic formations. Please note that the National Park Service advises against using vehicles longer than 25 feet (8 m) due to the road’s dips and turns.

12. Roam the Desert’s Ghost Towns

Death Valley contains several ghost towns and abandoned mining communities that are remnants of the area’s mining boom in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Some of the notable ghost towns and historic sites in Death Valley include:

Ballarat: 

Ballarat was a supply town for the nearby mining communities and had a post office, a school, and a few residents. It is mostly abandoned today, but you can still find some remnants of its past.

Panamint City: 

This remote mining town was one of the richest silver producers in the Panamint Mountains. The town was abandoned in the early 1870s, and the remains of some structures can still be seen by hikers.

Skidoo: 

Skidoo was a gold mining town that flourished in the early 20th century. It had a post office, saloons, and even a newspaper. The town declined after the mines played out, and today, a few buildings and artifacts are left.

Rhyolite: 

Rhyolite is perhaps the most famous ghost town in Death Valley. It was a bustling mining town during the early 1900s, with a population of several thousand people. Today, visitors can see the ruins of old buildings, including the Cook Bank Building and the Bottle House.

Chloride City: 

Chloride City is another mining town in Death Valley that saw activity during the mining era. It’s now a collection of abandoned structures and mining equipment.

13. Explore Badwater Basin’s Salt Flats:

Badwater Basin is home to some of the most mesmerizing and extensive salt flats in North America. These salt flats cover a vast area and are known for their stark, white expanse. Unlike the mysterious moving rocks at Racetrack Playa, the formation of the salt flats at Badwater Basin is the result of a more straightforward natural process.

At the heart of Badwater Basin lies a salt pan, which is the lowest point in North America, sitting at 282 feet (86 meters) below sea level. This unique geographical feature creates an environment where water from the surrounding mountains and valleys naturally flows into the basin, carrying with it dissolved minerals, primarily salt. As this water evaporates under the intense desert heat, it leaves behind the salt deposits on the valley floor.

Over time, layer upon layer of salt crystals accumulate, forming the expansive salt flats that visitors see today. The bright white surface of these flats is not only visually striking but also incredibly reflective, intensifying the desert’s scorching heat and sun’s reflection.

Badwater Basin is accessible via a short walk from a parking area, where you can walk out onto the salt flats and explore the surreal landscape up close. 

14. Take in Dante’s View

Dante’s View is a prominent viewpoint known for offering one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Death Valley and the surrounding Mojave Desert. This viewpoint is situated at an elevation of approximately 5,476 feet (1,669 meters) above sea level.

Dante’s View is located in the Black Mountains, and is accessible via Dante’s View Road, which is a paved road that leads to the viewpoint from the main road through the park, California State Route 190. From the parking area, visitors can take a short, paved walkway to reach the actual viewpoint. Once there, you can enjoy a stunning and unobstructed view of Death Valley, the Panamint Range, Badwater Basin (the lowest point in North America), and Telescope Peak, which is the highest point in the Panamint Range. On a clear day, you can see for many miles, and the scenery is particularly dramatic during sunrise and sunset.

Due to its elevation, Dante’s View is often cooler than the valley floor, making it a pleasant spot to visit even during the hot summer months. However, it can still be quite cold in the winter, so visitors should dress accordingly. In addition to its daytime views, Dante’s View is also a popular spot for stargazing at night. The high elevation and remote location make it an excellent place to observe the night sky, away from the lights of nearby towns.

Dante’s View was featured in scenes from the original “Star Wars” film (Episode IV: A New Hope), where it was used as the backdrop for the desert planet Tatooine.

15. Visit Devil’s Golf Course:

The Devil’s Golf Course is a natural wonder renowned for its harsh, rugged, and unforgiving terrain. Unlike a traditional golf course, this area is named ironically, as it’s far from a golfer’s paradise. Instead, it’s a mesmerizing expanse of jagged salt formations that seem more suited to a devilish game of golf than to actual greens and fairways.

The unique and striking landscape of Devil’s Golf Course is primarily composed of halite salt crystals, which have formed over thousands of years through the process of salt crystallization. During the area’s wetter periods, groundwater would rise closer to the surface. As this water evaporated under the boiling desert sun, it left behind the salt crystals. Over time, these crystals compacted and transformed into the jagged and sharp formations that we see today.

The name “Devil’s Golf Course” was given to this site in reference to a 1934 National Park Service guidebook that described the terrain as being so treacherous that “only the devil could play golf” on it. Indeed, the surface of Devil’s Golf Course is extremely rough and irregular, making it practically impassable for humans and challenging for any form of recreation.

Visitors to Devil’s Golf Course can take a short walk from the parking area to a viewpoint where they can observe the surreal salt formations from a safe distance. The craggy and sharp terrain, filled with spires and pinnacles of salt, stretches as far as the eye can see, creating an otherworldly and photogenic view.

16. Stargazing in Death Valley’s Dark Sky Park:

Stargazing in Death Valley’s Dark Sky Park is a celestial experience like no other. As one of the best places for stargazing in North America, Death Valley National Park has been designated as a Gold Tier Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association, making it an ideal destination for stargazing.

The exceptional stargazing conditions in Death Valley are a result of its remote location, minimal light pollution, and high elevation. The park’s vast expanses of desert terrain and its distance from major cities contribute to the darkness of its skies, allowing visitors to enjoy the stars in all their glory. 

Several locations within the park are particularly well-suited for stargazing. Park Ranger’s top picks for stargazing locations in the park are Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Harmony Borax Works, Badwater Basin, and Ubehebe Crater. 

The National Park Service often hosts stargazing events and astronomy programs for visitors. These programs provide opportunities to learn from park rangers and local astronomers, who offer guidance and insights into the night sky’s wonders. Be sure to check Death Valley’s National Park Calendar for up-to-date events.

It’s essential to dress warmly, even in the desert, as nighttime temperatures can drop significantly. Also, remember to carry a red flashlight to preserve your night vision and minimize the impact of artificial light on the environment.

Best Times to Stargaze: 

The best times for stargazing in Death Valley are during the fall, winter, and early spring when the skies are typically clear and the temperatures are more comfortable. The park’s lower elevations can be extremely hot during the summer, which can make nighttime stargazing less enjoyable.

17. Tour Scotty’s Castle:

Scotty’s Castle, also known as the Death Valley Ranch, is a unique and historic attraction located in the northern part of Death Valley. This remarkable structure stands as a testament to the eccentricity and vision of its builders, Albert Johnson and Walter “Death Valley Scotty” Scott, who formed an unlikely but enduring friendship.

Construction of Scotty’s Castle began in the 1920s and was intended to be a modest vacation home for Albert Johnson, a wealthy Chicago insurance executive. 

The name “Scotty’s Castle” comes from Johnson’s friendship with Walter Scott, a charismatic and legendary character in the area. Scott, often referred to as “Death Valley Scotty,” was known for his tall tales of gold mining adventures and his colorful personality. 

The castle was never completed as a full-time residence, as Johnson died before its finalization. Today, Scotty’s Castle offers guided tours to visitors, providing an opportunity to step back in time and explore the remarkable architecture, furnishings, and stories that surround the place. 

18. Capture the Sunrise at Zabriskie Point:

Zabriskie Point is one of the most photographed and visited spots in Death Valley, known for its breathtaking views of the colorful badlands and eroded sedimentary rocks. It’s especially popular for sunrise and sunset photography, as the changing angles of light enhance the natural beauty of the landscape.

The viewpoint at Zabriskie Point provides visitors with a mesmerizing perspective of the Furnace Creek Badlands. Visitors can access the viewpoint via a short, paved walk from the parking area. The viewpoint is easily accessible for people of all ages and fitness levels, making it a must-visit location. 

Zabriskie Point is not only a place for breathtaking views but also an excellent spot for learning about the geological forces that shaped the park’s landscape. Interpretive signs and exhibits at the viewpoint provide insights into the unique geology and the processes that created the distinctive badlands and rock formations seen from this vantage point.

19. Discover Unique Desert Wildlife:

Death Valley, despite its harsh and seemingly inhospitable environment, is home to a surprising variety of unique wildlife that has adapted to the extreme conditions of this desert ecosystem. Here are some of the notable species you might encounter in Death Valley:

Desert Bighorn Sheep: 

These iconic animals are well adapted to the desert’s rugged terrain. They have specialized hooves that provide traction on rocky slopes, and they are known for their ability to survive on limited water sources.

Coyotes: 

These opportunistic predators are common in Death Valley. They feed on a variety of prey, including small mammals, birds, and plant material. Their adaptability and keen hunting instincts enable them to thrive in this challenging environment.

Kangaroo Rats: 

These small, nocturnal rodents have evolved to conserve water efficiently. They obtain much of their moisture from the seeds they eat, allowing them to survive in the arid desert.

Desert Tortoise: 

The desert tortoise is a threatened species native to the Mojave Desert, which includes parts of Death Valley. These slow-moving reptiles have adapted to the extreme temperatures by burrowing underground and spending much of their lives in cool, shaded burrows.

Kit Foxes: 

These small foxes are well-suited to the desert environment. They have large ears that help dissipate heat, and they primarily feed on small mammals, insects, and plant matter.

Sidewinder Rattlesnake: 

This small, venomous snake has a distinctive way of moving, with a sideways, looping motion. It often hides in the sand to avoid extreme temperatures and preys on small rodents.

Desert Pupfish: 

These tiny fish are found in some of Death Valley’s isolated and warm-water springs. They have adapted to thrive in the high-temperature, low-oxygen conditions of these unique aquatic environments.

Desert Horned Lizard: 

Also known as “horny toads,” these small lizards have a distinctive appearance with their flattened bodies and spiky scales. They primarily feed on ants and are known for their camouflage.

Greater Roadrunner: 

This iconic desert bird is known for its distinctive appearance and behavior. It’s a fast runner and opportunistic predator, preying on insects, small reptiles, and even small mammals.

These are just a few examples of the unique wildlife that has adapted to thrive in the extreme conditions of Death Valley. Despite the challenges of the desert, this national park supports a surprisingly rich and diverse array of species, making it a fascinating destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.

20. Explore Ubehebe Crater

Ubehebe Crater is a prominent and visually striking volcanic crater. It is one of the park’s most iconic geological features and a fascinating testament to the volcanic history of the region. 

Ubehebe Crater is approximately half a mile (0.8 kilometers) wide and over 600 feet (183 meters) deep. The crater’s name, “Ubehebe,” is derived from a Native American word meaning “big basket in the rock.” The name reflects the crater’s large, bowl-like shape. It features rugged and colorful walls, with various shades of brown, red, and gray rock formations, making it a striking and photogenic geological feature.

Visitors to Ubehebe Crater can explore the rim and even hike down into the crater itself via the Crater Trail. The trail, which is roughly 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers) in length, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscape and the crater’s interior. Hiking into the crater and back out can be a strenuous endeavor due to the steep and uneven terrain, so it’s essential to come prepared with plenty of water and sturdy footwear.

21. Discover Mosaic Canyon’s Natural Beauty

Mosaic Canyon is a popular hiking destination known for its stunning rock formations, narrow slot canyons, and the unique mosaic-like patterns found on the canyon walls.

What truly sets Mosaic Canyon apart is the intricate patterns and textures adorning the canyon walls. These mosaic-like patterns, from which the canyon derives its name, are a result of geological processes such as erosion, weathering, and the deposition of minerals. As you venture deeper into the canyon, you’ll encounter smooth, polished marble walls, shaped by the forces of water and abrasive sand.

Mosaic Canyon offers hiking trails rated moderate to difficult. The shorter hike is accessible to most visitors and provides a taste of the canyon’s unique beauty, with opportunities to explore the narrows. For those seeking a more challenging adventure, a longer hike leads you deeper into the canyon, where you can immerse yourself in the striking geological formations.

Access to Mosaic Canyon is relatively easy, as it is located near the Stovepipe Wells area, one of the main visitor hubs in Death Valley National Park. A short drive and a moderate hike are all that’s required to reach the captivating narrows of the canyon.

22. Experience Stovepipe Wells Village: A Desert Haven

Stovepipe Wells is a significant and bustling visitor area situated in the heart of Death Valley National Park, serving as a central hub. Its strategic location and amenities make it a convenient and practical base for visitors to the park.

The Stovepipe Wells Village includes a hotel, a restaurant, a gas station, and a general store. The general store is particularly useful for visitors, offering supplies, groceries, and camping essentials, making it a convenient stop for those planning to stay or explore the park’s attractions.

The Stovepipe Wells Campground is another notable feature, offering camping options for both RVs and tents. This campground is a popular choice for those seeking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Death Valley while still having access to basic facilities and services.

One of the most famous attractions near Stovepipe Wells is the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. These sand dunes are a favorite spot for photographers, especially during the magical moments of sunrise and sunset.

Stovepipe Wells also serves as a starting point for numerous hiking trails and outdoor adventures. Beyond the nearby sand dunes, visitors can explore intriguing places like Mosaic Canyon, Titus Canyon, and the vast salt flats of Badwater Basin, all within a reasonable driving distance.

23. Traverse Salt Creek’s Unique Ecosystem

NOTE: The boardwalk suffered severe damage in 2022. Please be sure to check the NPS website or check with local Park Rangers on the status of the boardwalk.

Salt Creek is a distinct and intriguing location nestled within the eastern part of Death Valley National Park. It is renowned for its seasonal water flow and the presence of a critically endangered species known as the Salt Creek pupfish (Cyprinodon salinus).

One of the primary highlights of Salt Creek is the unique habitat it provides for the Salt Creek pupfish. These tiny fish have remarkably adapted to the harsh and extreme conditions of the creek, which include high salinity levels and temperature fluctuations. Observing these pupfish is best during the wetter months when water flows are more substantial, allowing for better visibility of their behavior and movements.

Visitors to Salt Creek can explore the area via a well-maintained boardwalk trail that winds along a portion of the creek. This boardwalk enables visitors to observe the remarkable ecosystem without causing harm to the sensitive habitat. It’s an excellent opportunity for nature enthusiasts to learn about the desert’s hydrology, ecology, and the unique adaptations of the pupfish. 

In addition to the Salt Creek pupfish, the area is also a popular destination for birdwatchers. Birdwatching is especially rewarding during the spring and fall migrations when various bird species, including migratory waterfowl, can be observed in the vicinity.

Educational signage along the boardwalk trail provides valuable information about the unique ecological and geological aspects of Salt Creek. These interpretive signs offer insights into the diversity of ecosystems within Death Valley National Park and enhance the visitor’s understanding of this delicate and remarkable environment.

24. Hike to Natural Bridge

The Natural Bridge is a geologic feature that is only a short hike from the parking lot, which is great for families or those whose mobility may be limited. The bridge is approximately 35 feet (11 m) above the ground and is just as thick. It was carved over years of flash flooding events carving the landscape.

The Natural Bridge parking area and trailhead can be found by taking a 13.5-mile (22 km) dirt road to the south of CA-190, off Badwater Road. While this road is usually in good condition and suitable for most vehicles, it’s important to be aware that there might be washouts and deep ruts from time to time. It’s a good idea to consult with a park ranger for the most up-to-date information on road conditions before heading out.

25. Visit the Wildrose Charcoal Kilns

The Wildrose Charcoal Kilns are a fascinating piece of history located in Death Valley. These kilns, built in 1877, played a crucial role in the mining operations of the late 19th century. Their purpose was to produce charcoal, which was highly prized for its ability to burn hotter and cleaner than wood. This was essential for smelting silver and lead ore extracted from nearby mines. Each kiln measures approximately 25 feet (7.6 meters) in diameter and stands at around 30 feet (9 meters) in height. This design allowed for efficient charcoal production by regulating air flow.

The Charcoal Kilns are located along Emigrant Canyon Road, 28 miles from Highway 190.

26. Trek to Saline Valley Warm Springs

Saline Valley Warm Springs consist of several natural hot springs with varying temperatures. They are a popular destination for those seeking a unique and remote soaking experience. It’s important to know that access to Saline Valley can be challenging, as it often requires driving on a rough, gravel road, so visitors should be well-prepared and have a suitable vehicle for the journey.

Keep in mind that road and weather conditions in the area can be extreme, so it’s important to check for current conditions and be well-prepared if you plan to visit these hot springs.

Conclusion

Death Valley National Park is a land of extremes and extraordinary beauty. From the otherworldly landscapes of Badwater Basin and the mesmerizing Artist’s Palette to the breathtaking vistas at Dante’s View and the adventurous exploration of Titus Canyon, this national park offers a diverse range of experiences for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. 

Whether you’re captivated by its unique geology, fascinated by its rich history, or simply seeking the thrill of adventure, Death Valley has something for everyone. So, pack your sense of wonder and embark on an unforgettable journey through this remarkable desert landscape, where each turn reveals a new facet of nature’s wonders. It’s a destination that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Happy travels!