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Death Valley National Park isn’t just a place; it’s an experience. It’s where the horizon stretches endlessly, painted with hues of gold, orange, and rust. A land of extremes, Death Valley offers landscapes so unique they feel like another planet.
If you’ve been yearning for an adventure that combines striking natural beauty, quiet seclusion, and unmatched starry nights, this is it. Whether you love the desert or not, Death Valley promises a trip you’ll never forget. Here’s how to make the most of an epic two-day getaway.
Planning Your Trip to Death Valley
First things first, let’s figure out the logistics. A little planning goes a long way in making your this desert trip smooth and stress-free.
Best Time to Visit
Death Valley is the hottest place on Earth, so timing is everything. The cooler months (late fall through early spring) are by far the best time to visit. Think November through March, when daytime highs hover in the much more manageable 60–70°F range.
Summer? Nope. Temperatures regularly exceed 120°F, which is not exactly ideal for hiking or exploring.
Getting There
Death Valley sits at the border of California and Nevada, making it easily accessible if you’re starting from Las Vegas (2-hour drive) or Los Angeles (4 hour drive). The drive itself is part of the adventure, with vast desert views that shift as you get closer to the park.
Pro tip? Fill up your gas tank before entering the park because, not surprisingly, gas stations are few and far between, and its easy to drive a lot once you’re inside the park.
Where to Stay
Camping: Death Valley has several campgrounds, like Furnace Creek and Texas Springs, that offer an authentic desert experience. If you’re looking to camp under the stars at an official campground, this is it. Book at recreation.gov
Lodges: Prefer a bed indoors? Furnace Creek Inn, The inn at Death Valley, Stovepipe Wells Village Hotel, and Panamint Springs Resort are fantastic options that blend comfort with convenience.
Off-road Camping: Feeling adventurous? Death Valley permits off-pavement camping in certain areas, as long as you’re a safe distance from main roads. You can also purchase $10 slots for certain off-road sites at recreation.gov. Verify road conditions, as most routes beyond a few miles require a 4WD vehicle.
Day 1
Wake up early because your day is packed with world-class views and hikes, and sunrise at Zabriskie Point is one you will regret missing.
Zabriskie Point – for sunrise
There’s no better way to start your Death Valley adventure than catching the sunrise at Zabriskie Point. Watching the sun’s first rays light up the rolling waves of golden badlands will leave you speechless. It’s peaceful and almost otherworldly.
From this spot, you can embark on a hike to Red Cathedral along the Golden Canyon Trail. It’s an incredible route, and starting here adds to the experience. I highly recommend it!
Hike Gower Gulch Loop
After exploring Zabriskie Point, continue your adventure with the Gower Gulch Loop. This moderate 4-mile hike offers stunning views of the badlands and leads you through narrow canyons and colorful rock formations. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in Death Valley’s unique landscape while avoiding the crowds.
Artists Drive
In the afternoon, take a drive along Artist’s Drive, a stunning 9-mile scenic loop perfect for a leisurely car ride. This route offers breathtaking views, leading to one of the park’s most captivating spots—Artist’s Palette. Here, vibrant mineral deposits create a kaleidoscope of colors across the hills, a natural masterpiece that feels like an open-air art exhibit.
Artists Palette – for sunset
There’s something really magical about being here as the sun sets. The colors of the minerals deepen, creating a scene you’ll want to sit and savor. Trust me, this is one spot worth lingering at to watch day fade into night. I come here almost every evening I’m there and I can’t get enough! It’s my favorite place in the park.
Day 2
Day two brings more iconic spots and some of the most surreal landscapes you’ll encounter.
Sunrise at Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes
If you’re a sucker for dramatic desert landscapes, don’t miss the sunrise at Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. The sand looks untouched in the soft morning light, and it’s the perfect time to explore deep into the dunes with no crowd!
Badwater Basin
Next? Head to Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level. The vast salt flats here create a surreal, otherworldly landscape, with intricate hexagonal patterns and grooves etched into the terrain by years of evaporation and mineral buildup. It’s a stunning natural phenomenon that stretches as far as the eye can see.
The Devil’s Golf Course
This eerie, jagged expanse of salt and minerals got its name for a reason. It’s one of the most unique spots I’ve seen, and it’s a testament to the power of nature. You won’t need much time here, but the views are worth the quick stop.
Dante’s View
For a wild change of perspective, drive up to Dante’s View. In just a short trip, you’ll go from being below sea level in Death Valley to standing 5,575 feet above it. The dramatic change in elevation is mind-blowing, and so is the view—sweeping panoramas of the valley below. It’s cooler up here, so take your time soaking it all in!
Photograph the Stars
Wrap up your weekend by heading back to Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes for some nighttime stargazing. Death Valley is an International Dark Sky Park, meaning you’ll likely see more stars than you’ve seen in your lifetime. Bring a blanket and lie down to enjoy this mesmerizing spectacle. And if you’re into astro photography, this is the perfect place for it!
Restaurants and Food Inside the Park
Exploring the park can work up quite an appetite, but you’re in luck! The park offers a variety of dining options to suit every taste. From quick bites at casual cafés to sit-down meals at themed restaurants, there’s something for everyone.
Be sure to stop by the Last Kind Words Saloon for a unique dining experience… I love that spot!
Tips and Considerations
To make your trip as enjoyable as possible, here are a few reminders and tips:
What to Bring:
- Plenty of water (I recommend a gallon per person/day – even in the cooler months)
- Sunscreen and a hat
- Layers and good sleeping gear if camping
- Good hiking boots / chacos
- Excitement 🙂
Photography Tips:
Visit locations at sunrise and sunset for the best lighting! Use a tripod for those incredible star shots.
Why Death Valley is the Ultimate Desert Escape
Two days in Death Valley might not sound like much, but trust me, it’s enough to leave you enchanted. From the golden sunrise at Zabriskie Point to the salt flats of Badwater Basin and the shimmering dunes beneath a starry sky, this park offers a kind of rugged beauty you won’t find anywhere else. It’s truly unique and special.
Feeling inspired? Grab your gear and plan your trip to this incredible destination.
If you’ve already been to Death Valley, or if you’re planning a visit soon, drop a comment and share your thoughts or questions—I’d love to hear about your adventures!