If you’re searching for jaw-dropping landscapes, quirky roadside stops, and trails that make you feel like you’re on another planet, then Death Valley National Park is calling your name!
Known for its surreal salt flats, vibrant badlands, and being home to some of the hottest temperatures on earth, this desert wonderland has no shortage of incredible things to explore. I spent several days exploring Death Valley in 2023, and I’m sharing my list of the best things to do and see in this wild park.
From hiking and stargazing to historic ghost towns and hidden springs, I’ve rounded up the best things to do in Death Valley so you can squeeze every bit of adventure out of this iconic wilderness.
Whether you’re road-tripping through or planning a multi-day escape, let’s dive into the 31 must-see sights that will make your visit unforgettable!
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Quick Look: Top 5 Best Things to Do in Death Valley
Ready to jump right to the good stuff? If it’s your first visit to Death Valley National Park, don’t miss these top 5 things to do in Death Valley:
- Badwater Basin
- Zabriske Point
- Artist Drive & Artist Point
- Mesquite Sand Dunes
- Golden Canyon
This guide covers each of these top 5 best things to do in Death Valley below, plus 26 more stops that make California’s most extreme National Park truly one of a kind, and one of my favorites to visit.
Short on time? Good news – you can visit all 5 of these spots in one epic day! Check out my 1 day Death Valley guide here for more details.
Spending 2 or more days in Death Valley, don’t miss these must-see stops, plus plenty of wild hidden gems.
Best Things to Do in Death Valley: Top 10
1. Badwater Basin
At 282 feet below sea level, Badwater Basin is the lowest point in North America—and one of Death Valley’s most iconic spots. This sprawling salt flat looks like something out of a dream, with its geometric salt formations stretching into the distance.
From the parking area, take a short walk on the boardwalk to the iconic elevation sign and walk out onto the blinding white (and often windy) salt flats.
The vast 200-square-mile salt flats are trail-less and yours to explore as far as you want. Walk about a mile to see the unique hexagon salt shapes left by evaporating water.
For the best experience, visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the extreme heat and capture that golden hour glow for your photos.
2. Zabriske Point
Hands down the most popular spot for sunrise in Death Valley is Zabriske Point, but it’s worth a stop here at any time of day.
This viewpoint overlooks the golden bandlands and red rock formations, with views of the often snow-capped Panamint Mountains in the distance.
It’s a favorite spot for photographers, especially at sunrise when the light brings the desert hues to life. If you plan on getting there for sunrise – make sure to bundle up and arrive early!
Zabriskie Point is easily accessible via a short, paved path from the parking lot, making it a perfect stop even if you’re short on time.
3. Golden Canyon
After taking in the views at Zabriske Point, head down the trail and into the golden and red badlands below you. Most visitors hike into Golden Canyon via the Golden Canyon Trailhead, on Badwater Road, but you can also access this figure-8 loop trail from Zabriske Point.
The entire loop is 7.4 miles and takes 4-5 hours to complete. If you only have 2 days to spend in Death Valley, I suggest Badlands loop, a moderate 2.7 miles that takes about 2 hours.
This topographic map shows the entire Golden Canyon loop trails. As you can see there are a lot of options for mixing and matching your route, depending on how much time you want to spend here!
Bring plenty of water, wear sturdy shoes, and start early to beat the heat. This hike is a great way to experience the dramatic beauty of Death Valley’s geology up close.
4. Dante’s View
At over 5,000 feet above sea level, Dante’s View offers a panoramic view high above Death Valley.
On a clear day from here, you can see both the highest and lowest points in the contiguous U.S.—Mount Whitney and Badwater Basin. The sweeping views stretch for miles, making this one of the best spots in the park to truly grasp just how huge this park really is.
If this spot looks familiar, Dante’s View is famous as the Mos Eisley overlook from Star Wars. Other Star Wars filming locations in Death Valley include Golden Canyon, Desolation Canyon, and Twenty Mule Team Scenic Drive.
5. Artist Drive & Artist Point
Artist Drive is a one-way 9 mile paved scenic drive takes you through the colorful badlands of volcanic and sedimentary hills washed with washes of pink, yellow, red, and green.
The colors come from the volcanic deposits in the sediment that are rich in compounds like iron oxides and chlorite, resulting in a vibrant rainbow effect.
The best time to visit is late afternoon when the colors are at their most vivid. The road is a one-way loop, suitable for vehicles under 25 feet in length. It’s also a popular road for bikers, so be sure to watch out and drive safely.
About half way through the loop is the turnoff for Artist Palette. From here you can explore the most colorful section of the hills – and yes, this is THE spot you’ve probably seen in a thousand Instagram photos, and it’s totally worth it!
6. Stargazing
Death Valley is a certified International Dark Sky Park, making it one of the best places in the U.S. for stargazing.
On clear nights, you’ll be treated to a dazzling view of the Milky Way and countless constellations. Mesquite Sand Dunes, Harmony Borax Works, and Badwater Basin are all excellent stargazing spots. Bring a blanket, download a stargazing app, and let the desert’s quiet magic unfold under the stars.
7. Mosaic Canyon
If you’re up for a bit of adventure, Mosaic Canyon is a must-visit slot canyon showcasing polished marble walls and intricate rock formations.
The trail is fairly easy, at 3.5 miles round-trip and about 1000 feet of elevation gain. The multi-colored marble canyon walls are fun to explore and make for some great photos. Be prepared to climb over some boulders and through one narrow slot canyon on this out and back hike.
Need a map? Don’t forget to download your map and save it to your phone or GPS device before your hike! Get AllTrails+ (the most used trail app on my phone!) to download all your trail maps for offline use. Use my promo code brookeinboots30 to get 30% off your annual AllTrails+ subscription!
Mosaic Canyon is located just uphill from Stovepipe Wells. From Highway CA-190 at Stovepipe Wells village, take a left onto the unpaved Mosaic Canyon Road. This is a bumpy unpaved road, but most passenger sedans can make the drive if you are careful.
Park at the small trailhead at the end of the road. This parking lot fills early, so its best to do this hike first thing in the morning.
8. Mesquite Sand Dunes
The Mesquite Sand Dunes are the ultimate desert playground, with towering dunes perfect for climbing, photography, and simply soaking in the serene landscape.
These massive sand dunes are the park’s most accessible and popular dune field. You can see the dunes from your car, but to really experience them, you’ll want to kick off your shoes and start hiking.
There are no set trails, so you’ll have the freedom to explore and create your own trail. But be warned, climbing those dunes takes more work than it looks like! Be sure to bring water and a jacket if you plan on hiking out.
You can also bring a sled or sandboard for a unique thrill in Death Valley! I didn’t see many people doing this when I was here, but its a popular activity in other dune fields like Great Sand Dunes National Park.
9. Racetrack Playa
Racetrack Playa is home to Death Valley’s mysterious “sailing stones.” These large boulders leave trails across the dry lake bed, seemingly moving on their own.
This unique phenomena has puzzled scientists and visitors for years. But a recent scientific expedition in 2014 has uncovered the probable cause of the phenomenon.
Erosion causes stones to fall from the mountains above and onto the playa. When conditions are right, the playa fills with water from winter storms. Then, plummeting nighttime temperatures cause a thin layer of ice to form. Once on the ice, it takes no more than a light wind to push the heavy stones, leaving a trail behind them in the mud once the water evaporates.
This remote destination requires a high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle to reach, but the adventure is worth it. Pack plenty of supplies, as there are no services along the way, and plan for a full day trip. Sunrise and sunset offer the best lighting to capture this eerie and fascinating phenomenon.
10. Ubehebe Crater
There are plenty of wild things to do in Death Valley’s more remote northern section, but the most popular destination here is a trip to Ubehebe Crater.
Ubehebe Crater is massive a volcanic crater formed over 2,000 years ago, 500 feet deep and half a mile wide. There are more than a dozen ancient craters in this volcanic field, but Ubehebe is the largest, and youngest.
An easy 1.5 mile trail around the rim provides spectacular views into the crater and surrounding desert. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike down into the crater—just be prepared for the steep climb back up!
A shorter trail to Little Hebe crater walks along the rim of Ubehebe to a secondary smaller crater, about 1 mile round trip, and takes 30 to 45 minutes.
More Posts & Resources for Visiting Death Valley
Where to Stay in Death Valley National Park: Best Death Valley Lodging, Hotels & More
How to Spend 2 – 3 Epic Days in Death Valley National Park
31 Epic Things to Do in Death Valley National Park
How to Get to Death Valley: Closest Airports & Directions
One Unforgettable Day in Death Valley: 1 Day Itinerary
More Epic Things to Do in Death Valley
11. Twenty Mule Team Canyon Scenic Drive
Step back in time on the Twenty Mule Team Canyon Scenic Drive, a 2.5-mile unpaved road that winds through a maze of colorful badlands. The drive is named after the iconic mule teams that hauled borax from Death Valley in the 1800s.
About two-thirds into the drive, you’ll spot a small turn-off, just big enough for several cars. This spot leads to some quick hiking trails into the hills. Don’t miss this opportunity! The view from the hilltops is absolutely stunning.
The entire drive through Twenty Mule Team Canyon, plus getting out for some short walks takes about 30 minutes.
12. Devil’s Golf Course
Located just down the road from Badwater Basin, Devil’s Golf Course is an otherworldly expanse of jagged salt formations.
This bizarre landscape is the result of evaporated ancient lake beds. Access is via a short dirt road off Badwater Road, suitable for most vehicles.
Be cautious and wear closed-toe shoes when exploring outside the car here, as the jagged salt formations can cut and injure your feet if you aren’t careful.
13. Furnace Creek Golf Course
Play the most unique round of golf in your life at the Furnace Creek Golf Course. This 18-hold par 70 course is a surreal experience—and it’s the lowest golf course in the world, sitting at 214 feet below sea level.
Open year-round, the course features challenging holes and stunning mountain views. After a round, cool off with a drink at the clubhouse or relax under the shade of its palm trees.
Learn more about the Furnace Creek Golf Course and book your tee time, here.
14. Furnace Creek Visitor Center
The Furnace Creek Visitor Center is the perfect starting point for your Death Valley adventure, or a great place to cool off during the hotter parts of the day.
Here, you can pick up maps, chat with rangers, and check out exhibits on the park’s history, geology, and wildlife. Don’t forget to get your National Park Passport stamped while you’re here! And of course, take a selfie with the famous Death Valley thermometer out front.
15. Last Kind Words Saloon
Indulge in a time-honored Old West tradition of heading to the nearest watering hole and ordering a strong drink (or a soda for the kids) at the Last Kind Words Saloon.
The Last Kind Words Saloon is a recently renovated bar located in the Ranch at Death Valley, replacing the older and dive-ier Corkscrew Saloon that used to sit here.
The atmosphere feels straight out of your favorite old western movie, complete with wanted posters, historic memorabilia from the park’s wild history, and taxidermy animals.
Saddle up to the bar, order yourself a whiskey or a cold beer, and soak in the vibes.
16. Scotty’s Castle
Though currently closed for renovations due to flood damage, Scotty’s Castle remains a fascinating glimpse into Death Valley’s eccentric past.
Built in the 1920s as a lavish desert retreat, this Spanish-style mansion was the product of a quirky friendship between a millionaire and a con artist. Keep an eye on park updates here for reopening details, or explore the grounds via ranger-led tours when available.
17. Harmony Borax Works
Learn about the fascinating history of Death Valley’s “White Gold” at the Harmony Borax Works.
Over the years, prospectors, businessmen, and bandits have visited Death Valley chasing fortunes. In the 1849 California Gold Rush, miners sought riches in the hills, but harsh conditions made mining tough and unprofitable.
Then, in the 1880s, borax was found, a mineral valuable for various uses, including soap. This historic mining site was once the heart of the borax industry in Death Valley, famously hauled out by the 20-mule teams.
Today, visitors can explore the remains of this once-thriving industry at Harmony Borax Works. Take a self-guided tour through old equipment and interpretive signs. If you’re a history nerd like me you’ll love this stop.
18. The Inn at Death Valley
If you’re looking for luxury in the desert, The Inn at Death Valley is the place to be. This historic, AAA Four-Diamond resort offers elegant accommodations with stunning desert views, all while surrounded by lush gardens and natural springs.
Originally built in the 1920s, the Inn hosted Old Hollywood celebrities and recently underwent an impressive renovation.
Stroll through the manicured date palm gardens or relax in the spring-fed pool (87 degrees year round). You can also play a round of golf, pamper yourself at the spa, enjoy fine dining and drinks – this is the ultimate luxury National Park experience.
Looking for more places to stay in Death Valley? Check out my guide to Death Valley lodging (including much more budget-friendly options) here.
19. Teakettle Junction
Quirky and remote, Teakettle Junction is a whimsical roadside stop where travelers leave teakettles adorned with notes, drawings, or signatures.
It’s located along the rough unpaved road to Racetrack Playa, where a high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle is required. Stop here for a fun photo op and to add your own contribution to the collection!
20. Darwin Falls
Water is a rare sight in Death Valley, but not at Darwin Falls, a year-round waterfall hidden in the Panamint Springs area.
The 2-mile roundtrip hike to the falls takes you through a rocky canyon that gradually transitions into lush greenery. To get to the Darwin Falls trailhead, take Highway 190 to Panamint Springs and turn onto the unpaved Old Toll Road. Follow the gravel road for about 10 miles until you reach a parking area. This road is usually passable for regular sedans, but check with rangers about road conditions before heading out .
From there, it’s a short hike to the falls. Also, you can’t swim here – this spring serves as the drinking water for Panamint Springs Resort, below.
21. Natural Bridge
The Natural Bridge hike is a quick and rewarding trek to a massive rock arch nestled in a narrow canyon. Natural Bridge spans 35 feet and stands at 40 feet high.
The 1.5-mile roundtrip trail is easy to follow, winding through a desert canyon before arriving underneath the natural stone bridge.
To get there, take Badwater Road south for 13 miles before turning onto the dirt Natural Bridge Road. This unpaved road is generally accessible to all passenger vehicles.
Follow the road until you reach a parking area. From there, it’s a short .7 mile hike to the formation.
22. Superbloom
If you’re lucky enough to visit during a Death Valley super-bloom, you’re in for a treat. This rare phenomenon blankets Death Valley’s usually barren landscape with vibrant wildflowers.
The rare super-bloom phenomena won’t happen every year, but may occur if California experienced above average rainfall, like it did in 2016.
Look for blooms in late winter or early spring. Check the park’s website for updates and head to areas like the foothills for the best displays.
23. Rhyolite Ghost Town
Located just outside the park’s eastern boundary, Rhyolite Ghost Town offers a glimpse into the boom-and-bust mining days of the early 1900s.
Explore the ruins of old buildings, including a train depot, a bank, and the famous bottle house. The town’s eerie atmosphere and photogenic structures make it a great side trip if you’re driving to Death Valley from Las Vegas or east of the Park.
24. Father Crowley Vista at Rainbow Canyon
If you’re entering or exiting the Park through Panamint Springs (to Lone Pine, California, Highway 395 and the Alabama Hills) don’t miss the quick stop at Father Crawley Vista Overlook on CA-190.
Overlooking Rainbow Canyon, this spot is famous for the military fighter jets who speed through the canyon while practicing low-level flying maneuvers.
In 2019, Lieutenant Commander Charles Z. Walker’s Navy Super Hornet jet crashed here, killing the pilot and injuring several visitors. Today, a memorial plaque commemorates Lieutenant Commander Walker, and shares information about the exceptional pilots who train in this unforgiving terrain.
25. Horseback Riding at Furnace Creek Stables
Saddle up and explore Death Valley on horseback with tours offered at the Furnace Creek Stables.
These guided rides take you through scenic desert terrain, offering a unique perspective on the park’s rugged beauty. The stables are open from October through the second Sunday in May and offer one and two-hour guided rides.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a total beginner, this is a thrilling way to connect with Death Valley’s gold rush past, and experience the park as the ’49ers did, over 100 years ago!
26. Eureka Dunes
The towering Eureka Dunes are the tallest sand dunes in California, and some of the tallest sand dunes in North America, reaching heights of nearly 700 feet.
Located in a remote area of the park, they offer unparalleled solitude and stunning views. The dunes are known for their “singing sands,” a phenomenon where shifting grains produce a humming sound.
This remote dune-field is located in the northern end of the Park and is accessible with most standard vehicles via the Death Valley / Big Pine Road. From the Ubehebe Crater, you need to travel 44 miles of graded unpaved dirt roads to the dunes. To reach the dunes from the town of Big Pine, there are 28 miles of paved road, and 21 miles of unpaved dirt road.
Roads may close during inclement weather, and there are no water or services in this area.
27. Sidewinder Canyon
Adventure seekers will love Sidewinder Canyon, a network of narrow, twisting slot canyons perfect for experienced explorers.
This unmarked trail requires scrambling and navigation skills, but the reward is a labyrinth of stunning rock formations and dramatic light. The main trail is lined with 4 different side-canyons to explore, which require varying levels of rock scrambling, squeezing, and even bouldering to traverse.
If you aren’t experienced in desert navigation and slot canyon hiking, I suggest you skip this stop. I strongly suggest bringing a flashlight, gloves, and hiking with a buddy. Downloading an offline map for this area is a must.
28. Wildrose Charcoal Kilns
The Wildrose Charcoal Kilns are another fascinating remnant of Death Valley’s mining history.
These 10 beehive-shaped structures were built in the late 1800s to produce charcoal for nearby smelters. The kilns are remarkably well-preserved, and their location offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Access is via a dirt road, and the area is often cooler than the valley floor.
More Things to Do in Death Valley with a 4×4 Vehicle
If you’re bringing a 4×4 vehicle to Death Valley, you’re in for a real adventure. The park has hundreds of miles of primitive unpaved roads and backcountry dry campsites to explore.
You’ll need more than Google Maps here, as well as a high-degree of knowledge in how to drive in desert conditions, and the tools to self-rescue, including full size spare tires, food and water. Remember, you’re traveling into true wilderness here, and it is up to you to keep yourself safe!
Learn more about backcountry and primitive road driving in Death Valley, here.
29. Hike to Telescope Peak
For a literal high point in your Death Valley adventure, Telescope Peak is your destination.
At 11,049 feet, this towering peak offers jaw-dropping views of both the lowest point in North America (Badwater Basin) and the Sierra Nevada range.
The 14-mile roundtrip hike is a challenge, but the payoff is worth it—think sweeping panoramas and the chance to escape the heat at higher elevations. Unlike most other hikes and things to do in Death Valley, you’ll want to save this adventure for summer. Climbing Telescope Peak during winter requires true mountaineering equipment and experience.
A 4×4 vehicle is recommended to reach the Mahogany Flat Campground trailhead, especially during rough road conditions.
30. Primitive Camping Near Death Valley’s Hot Springs
Areas like the quirky and clothing-optional Saline Valley Hot Springs are popular with those looking for relaxing and unique things to do in Death Valley that are truly off the beaten path.
Reaching these springs requires a rugged 4×4 vehicle and careful navigation, and a drive of up to 4 hours on unpaved roads, one-way. But the reward is an unforgettable blend of tranquility, a true quirky backcountry community, and adventure. At Saline Valley and the nearby primitive campsite, locals built a series of concrete and stone pools to capture the area’s geothermal spring water.
After acquiring the area, NPS installed a vault toilet and designated a primitive camping area. This campground is located at 1,375ft, but requires navigating either North Pass at 7,300ft or South Pass at 5,997ft. These roads and passes may be inaccessible due to winter conditions.
Be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles and pack out everything you bring in.
31. Backcountry Camping
Backcountry camping in Death Valley is the ultimate way to immerse yourself in the park’s vast, epic wilderness.
With a 4×4 vehicle, you can access secluded sites far from the crowds, where your only neighbors are the stars and the wind. Popular areas include Racetrack Valley, Echo Canyon, Hole in the Wall, and Eureka Dunes to name a few.
Beginning in 2024, advanced camping reservations are required for roadside camping along Echo Canyon, Hole in the Wall, Cottonwood/Marble Canyon and Greenwater Valley Rd and backpacking on the Cottonwood/Marble Loop. Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance.
Otherwise, no permits are required for dispersed camping, but you must follow park regulations, including camping at least 2 miles from paved roads. Bring plenty of water, navigation tools, and a sense of adventure!
Conclusion: Best Things to Do in Death Valley National Park
With its surreal landscapes, rich history, and endless adventures, Death Valley National Park is a destination like no other. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker with a 4×4 or just soaking up the desert’s serenity, these 31 epic activities are just the beginning of what this incredible place has to offer.
Ready to plan your trip? Don’t miss these other Death Valley guides! If you’re figuring out accommodations, check out Where to Stay in Death Valley National Park for the best lodging and camping options. If you’re short on time, our guide to One Unforgettable Day in Death Valley National Park: 1 Day Itinerary highlights must-see spots. For multi-day adventurers, How to Spend 2–3 Epic Days in Death Valley National Park has you covered. And for all the details on getting there, including nearby airports and driving routes, head over to How to Get to Death Valley: Closest Airports & Driving Directions.
No matter how you choose to explore, Death Valley will leave you with memories (and photos) that last a lifetime. So pack your bags, lace up your boots, and get ready for an adventure like no other!
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