Travel to Death Valley National Park
Discover the extremes — the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the U.S., where stark beauty meets endless desert horizons.
Plan Your VisitAbout Death Valley
A land of extremes and natural wonders
Death Valley National Park, located along the California–Nevada border, is a landscape of striking contrasts — from salt flats below sea level to snow-capped peaks above 11,000 feet. Known for its dramatic geology, colorful canyons, and vast dunes, it's a destination like no other.
Location
Eastern California / Western Nevada
Area
3.4 million acres (largest U.S. national park outside Alaska)
Record
134°F — hottest temperature ever recorded on Earth
Established
1994 as a National Park
Top Attractions
Must-see destinations in Death Valley National Park
Things To Do
Experience the best of Death Valley National Park
Hiking & Trail Exploration
Trails range from easy walks to slot canyon climbs. Popular options include Golden Canyon, Mosaic Canyon, and the Natural Bridge Trail.
Scenic Drives
100+ miles of paved and backcountry routes with overlooks. Don't miss Artist's Drive, Badwater Road, and Dante's View Road.
Stargazing
Designated International Dark Sky Park with unmatched night views. The lack of light pollution makes it perfect for astronomy.
Photography
Capture dunes, salt flats, and surreal desert colors. Sunrise at Zabriskie Point and sunset at Mesquite Dunes are especially popular.
4x4 Adventures
Off-road exploration in Titus Canyon or Racetrack Playa, where rocks mysteriously move across the desert floor.
Travel Information
Essential details for planning your visit
Getting There
Accessible via Las Vegas (2 hrs) or Los Angeles (4 hrs). The nearest airports are McCarran International (LAS) and Harry Reid International (LAS).
Where to Stay
Lodges, campgrounds, and nearby accommodations in Furnace Creek and Stovepipe Wells. Book well in advance during peak season.
Best Time to Visit
October–April for mild temperatures and clear skies. Summer months (May-September) are extremely hot and not recommended.
Entry Fees
Pay at park entrances or online; passes valid for 7 days. $30 per vehicle, $25 per motorcycle, $15 per person on foot or bike.
Weather & Safety Tips
Important advice for a safe and enjoyable visit
Carry at least one gallon of water per person per day. Dehydration can occur quickly in the desert environment.
Avoid hiking after 10 a.m. in summer. Temperatures can exceed 120°F, making outdoor activities dangerous.
Keep your gas tank full; services are limited. Fill up in nearby towns before entering the park.
Cell service is spotty — download offline maps. GPS navigation may not be reliable in remote areas.
Protect from sun and heat at all times. Wear a hat, sunscreen, and lightweight, light-colored clothing.
Photo Gallery
Stunning views of Death Valley National Park
Nearby Attractions
Perfect for multi-park travelers
Red Rock Canyon (NV)
Just 30 minutes from Las Vegas, featuring stunning red sandstone formations and hiking trails.
Explore Red Rock
Joshua Tree National Park (CA)
Famous for its unique Joshua trees, rock formations, and desert landscapes in Southern California.
Visit Joshua Tree
Mount Whitney & Sequoia (CA)
Home to the highest peak in the contiguous U.S. and giant sequoia trees in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Discover SequoiaPlan Your Death Valley Adventure
Experience the desert's extremes — from starry nights to vast golden landscapes.
Start Planning View Park Map