CALIFORNIA ✦ TRIP PLANNING ✦ NATIONAL PARKS

Last Updated On: February 28, 2024
Posted by: Highly Likely Out of Office

Note: Sprinkled all over this post are affiliate links that direct you to experiences, stays, or products recommended by myself along with the free guides and tips on this blog! This just means that should you decide to use these links, I may earn a small commission that directly supports this blog and my coffees 🙂 at absolutely no additional cost to you. Cheers!

death valley national park, california

Just here for the itinerary? Skip on to my list of Best Things to do in Death Valley if you only have one day!

an interesting history

Death Valley National Park was not a designated national park until 1994 but people have been in the park since the 1800s as it attracted prospectors in search for gold during the California gold rush. By the late 1800s, the Death Valley settlers had established Harmony Borax Works near the current town of Furnace Creek where they mined millions of tons of Borax from the valley. Borax – a naturally occurring mineral salt has been used for centuries in many different applications, including as a cleaning agent and preservative. Fun fact: this was the first commercial extraction of Borax in Death Valley and the world.

death valley itinerary planning tips

To plan your perfect Death Valley itinerary you will first want to consider a few things: 1) what kind of sightseeing you would like to do – whether it’s visiting viewpoints or walking trails 2) how much time you have available – Death Valley covers more than 5 million acres! 3) and depending on where you’re coming from – how early you are able to start your trip especially if you only have one day.

Once you have worked out these details, draw up your Death Valley itinerary by deciding which attractions you want to see over your stay; making sure they are realistically achievable given your timeframe. You will also want to include stops along the way where you can gas up, pick up snacks or lunch. I always start off with a little research (which includes reading blog posts like this!) to gather information on a place, start pinning some locations on Google Maps to get familiarized with where everything is, and then start diving into the details from there.

In this post I’ll break down the top things to see and do so you can make the most out of your trip!

getting to and around death valley

Death Valley is huge and some stops are very far in between which means your best bet is to really have your own car. There is no public transportation or shuttles in the park.

From Las Vegas, Nevada
The drive from Las Vegas takes approximately two hours and will take you on a scenic drive through the Pahrump Valley before arriving at Death Valley National Park.

From Los Angeles, California
The journey from Los Angeles takes a little longer at four hours, but is still very doable in one day if you start early.

From Elsewhere
If you’re traveling from further away the closest airport to death valley is McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas, where you can rent a car for the duration of your trip. Skyscanner always makes it easy to look up the best flight deals. It’s also a good idea to lock in your Expedia car rental early as well for better fees.

best time to visit death valley

It’s probably best to start off by saying: Death Valley is the HOTTEST place on earth! In 1913 it set the world record of 57°C (134°F). On average, the temperature reaches a scorching 48°C (120°F) during the summer months, so if you’re looking to visit Death Valley without risking heat stroke or dehydration, then it’s best to visit outside this time.

For cooler temperatures, the best time to visit Death Valley is during the winter months while spring and fall offer moderate temperatures as well. I went in early February and it still got pretty hot (~22°C / 71°F PLUS direct sunlight PLUS dry desert air feels much much warmer, trust me!) For wildlife viewing, plan your visit during the spring months of March to May when desert wildflowers are in bloom and the resident animals come out to feed.

wildlife in death valley

Apart from its dramatic views and landscapes, Death Valley also boasts an incredible array of wildlife. This park is home to 155 species of birds, 56 reptile species, and numerous mammals including coyotes, desert bighorn sheep, mountain lions, bobcats, and black-tailed jackrabbits. You’ll also likely run into burros which are said to have descended from the mules of the earlier settlers. You can also find a variety of flora with more than 1,000 native plants, including the joshua tree and Death Valley pincushion.

Despite the harsh conditions the park thrives with plenty of animals that have adapted to living in the area. A great way to observe Death Valley’s wildlife is by visiting one of its many designated wildlife viewing sites or by taking a drive along the Wildrose scenic loop; offering the chance to spot some of Death Valley’s iconic animals in their natural habitat.

where to eat in death valley

There are several options in Death Valley National Park if you are looking for sit-down dining. I have not personally tried them but here are some restaurants with surprisingly good reviews on Google Maps! Personally, like to pack my food and pick a nice spot in the park to enjoy the view. And with as short a trip as one day in Death Valley, having something on the go is my recommendation!

Nevertheless, here are some spots to check out:
Stovepipe Wells: Toll Road Restaurant, Badwater Saloon, Stovepipe Wells Village Saloon
Furnace Creek: Last Kind Words Saloon & Steakhouse

The National Park Service website always provides up-to-date information on restaurants as well and is a good resource to check before you go in case of any construction or temporary closures.

If you need to stock up on snacks for your hikes or drives around the park, you’ll find that most general stores sell sandwiches, salads, and the usual convenience store food. The Ranch at Death Valley’s General Store was a great stop for some souvenirs (and emergency medication).

the best things to do in death valley in one day

Death Valley boasts some of the most fascinating sights in America; from Badwater Basin – the lowest point in North America at more than 282 feet below sea level – to Zabriskie Point – with its sweeping views over mesmerizing badland formations. Other popular sights include Artist’s Palette – where pastel-colored rocks create images like those seen in an artist’s studio – as well as many other canyons, sandstone formations, and natural wonders.

There are plenty of activities available to visitors within the park; from hiking, camping, climbing, and horseback riding through its varied terrain, to stargazing on moonless nights away from light pollution, or simply taking a drive around the park marveling at the unique desert landscape!

Sightseeing
Death Valley’s main attractions are all well-developed with dedicated parking spaces, information stands, and paved walkways to the vista points. This is great news if you’re looking for a more relaxed trip, sitting back in your car, with just a bit of walking – you can easily enjoy the views without working too hard 😉 You’ll get your fair share of the park’s geological wonders of sand dunes, salt flats, volcanic craters and canyons without the need for hiking. Zabriskie Point, Dante’s View and Badwater Basin are Death Valley’s most famous sights, offering breathtaking views of the terrain.

Stargazing
Death Valley National Park is a Dark Sky Park, making it one of the best places in the world for stargazing, especially on moon-less nights. Ranger-led stargazing tours are offered during the winter season and schedules are available on the NPS website.

death valley in one day itinerary

I know – it’s TOUGH! How do we possibly squeeze everything in one day? But for weekend warriors like myself, I know we always have a way to make it work! Below is a suggested Death Valley itinerary for getting the most out of your one-day visit.

Start your adventure at Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes

Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes is an iconic destination in Death Valley, featuring the largest and most impressive sand dunes in the park! There are 4 other sand dunes in the park to explore if you have more time, but the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes are the most accessible making them the perfect starting point for your Death Valley adventure. The trail is a 2.8mile out-and-back route that usually takes 1 hour to complete. You certainly do not need to complete this trail but if you’re interested in taking a few shots hopefully without all the foot prints, you will have to venture further out. Mesquite Flat is also a popular destination for sand-sledding so try to beat the crowds earlier in the day!

After making your way through the dunes, have an extra pair of socks ready in your car (trust me on this!) and make your way east along HWY-190 to Furnace Creek.

Fill-up at Furnace Creek

Stop by Death Valley’s Furnace Creek Visitor Center to pay the park fee, pick up a map, use the restrooms, and view their nicely curated interpretive displays. This is also a great spot to grab some souvenirs and refill your water and snacks for the day. If you have 30 minutes or so to spare, they have a great museum here to take a look at Death Valley’s history, geology, and culture. The Harmony Borax Works interpretive trail is also nearby for those interested in the park’s mining history!

Take in Views in Zabriskie Point

Zabriskie Point is a short drive from The Furnace Creek Visitor center and the next place you want to head to. The views are impressive during any time of day, but if you can make it here for sunrise or sunset you’re in for a spectacular show. The view from Zabriskie Point is actually the park’s most photographed sight, featuring a panoramic view of Death Valley’s landscapes, including colorful badlands and winding canyons which were formed from Furnace Creek Lake which dried up five million years ago! Mind-blowing, isn’t it? The way to viewpoint is paved and totally accessible, and you can walk down a little bit further to get an unobstructed view of the landscape.

Enjoy the colors at Artist’s Scenic Drive

You’ll find yourself back at the Furnace Creek junction for the next two stops along Badwater Rd. 15 minutes along this road, keep an eye out for the entrance to Artist’s Palette Drive which will be to your left. This area offers an array of colorful hills and mountains in Death Valley and is definitely worth the little trip around. The vibrant colors here were created by the oxidation of different minerals, creating a unique and beautiful landscape. I really don’t think I’ve seen a *cuter* trail with these pastel colored rocks and sand! For the best way to experience this colorful landscape, make your way along the scenic loop and keep an eye out for the turn to the Artist’s Palette parking lot where you can station your car and trek through the trails.

End your day with a bang at Badwater Basin

For your final stop on this day trip and the farthest point you’ll drive along Badwater Rd – head to Badwater Basin which will only be a 15 minute drive from the end of Artist’s Palette Drive. Badwater Basin is not only the lowest point in Death Valley but also in the entire North America. At 282 feet below sea level, it’s also the world’s largest salt pan with 200 square miles of shimmering white salt plains. You’ll see this from the parking lot, but taking the boardwalk and path through the basin will bring you to the salt flat and iconic hexagon formations. It will be completely un-shaded so be sure to wear long sleeves and a good hat to keep you cool on the walk! It will be totally worth it!

more time?

If you have more time in Death Valley, there are so many other amazing attractions and trails to explore!

Hike Golden Canyon to Red Cathedral
Immerse yourself in fascinating rock formations and panoramic views. The Golden Canyon trail difficulty is considered moderate and can be taken in its entirety or broken up into smaller segments. Trailhead locations are usually clearly marked on Google Maps and Alltrails is always a great tool to have for offline use.

Length: 2.9 miles out and back
Duration: 1.5 hrs
Elevation gain: 574 feet

Natural Bridge Trail
Natural Bridge Canyon trail takes you through a narrow canyon and to Death Valley’s natural bridge, a unique and beautiful rock formation.

Length: 1.4 miles out-and-back
Duration: 52 minutes
Elevation gain: 449 feet

Dante’s View
Dante’s View follows the HWY-190 is about another 30 minute drive from Zabriskie Point and offers a spectacular panoramic view from Death Valley’s highest point at 5,475 feet.

Devil’s Golf Course
Devil’s Golf Course is another one of Death Valley’s unique features, offering a rugged landscape of sharp salt crystals and jagged rocks. It’s considered the park’s most extreme landscape, created over time by the erosion of the Death Valley salt pan.

Length: 2.6 miles out-and-bac
Duration: 49 minutes
Elevatuon gain: 72 feet

Twenty Mule Team Canyon
Twenty Mule Team Canyon is the park’s most historic site, featuring a story of Death Valley’s past when it was a thriving borax mining operation. The Death Valley Twenty Mule trail takes visitors on a 3-mile journey on an unpaved road. You will find that many people mention having driven their sedans through this road but always stay up-to-date and make sure to check the NPS website or better yet a park ranger at the visitor center before deciding to do this or any dirt road drives in the park.

Rhyolite Ghost Town
The ghost town of Rhyolite is a historical site located just outside the park. It was a booming mining town in the early 1900’s, but it was abandoned in 1911. From Furnace Creek the drive takes about 40 minutes and it’s definitely worth a visit!

Scotty’s Castle
Scotty’s Castle is a historic, Spanish-style mansion and museum located in Death Valley. Built in the 1920’s, this castle was once the home of Walter Scott, a Death Valley con-man known as “Death Valley Scotty”. It’s now a National Historic Landmark and museum.

Ubehebe Crater and Little Hebe Crater Trail
Uhebehe Crater is a volcanic crater in Death Valley that was created by an explosion some 8 million years ago. The 1,000 -foot-wide crater is an impressive sight, and you can get up close to the crater’s edge for some amazing photo opportunities. This crater was named by the Timbisha Shoshone, which means “Land of Little Waters”.

Length: 1.8 miles loop
Duration: 1 hour
Elevation gain: 364 feet

where to stay in death valley

If your schedule can allow a few days in Death Valley, I highly recommend staying inside the park to save you from the long drives. There are a few accommodation options to choose from. The best area to be based in is Furnace Creek where you can have access to gas, several stores, restaurants. Furnace Creek is also located near Death Valley’s main attractions where you will likely plan to catch sunrise or sunset. Booking.com is a great place to start looking for lodging that will suit your itinerary, needs, and budget.

Hotels in Death Valley

1. The Oasis at Death Valley
2. The Inn at Death Valley (Book here)
3. The Ranch at Death Valley (Book here)
4. The Panamint Springs Resort
5. Stovepipe Wells Village
6. Amargosa Opera House (Book here)

Camping Near Furnace Creek in Death Valley National Park

For more adventurous souls, Furnace Creek offers a great camping options. The Furnace Creek Campground offers 170 sites with basic amenities such as fire grills and picnic tables, as well as flush toilets and running water. The Furnace Creek Campground also offers RV hookups and tent sites, as well as a dump station.

For campsite options, important updates, and things to know, check out the National Park Service’s page on Camping in Death Valley.

best sunrise & sunset spots in death valley

It’s hard to squeeze in a sunrise/sunset viewing on a day trip but if you have extra time or are up for it – Death Valley National Park offers some of the most spectacular sunrise and sunset views. Always time your sunrise and/or sunset destinations and consider any hikes or walking that you might need to do to make sure you catch the perfect lighting.

Sunrise: Mesquite Flats Sand Dunes provide the most spectacular sunrise views, as the park comes alive with a carpet of gold sand, pink skies, and dramatic shadows. Artist’s Palette also makes for a colorful sunrise spot!

Sunset: Zabriskie Point is Death Valley’s most popular sunset spot as the badlands are painted in pink, purple and orange hues. Badwater Basin is also a popular sunset spot.

insider death valley day trip tips

Don’t Leave Home Without Maps!
Death Valley is a big place (the largest national park in the lower 48 states!) and having a map downloaded for offline use will help make sure you have smooth time navigating the roads in Death Valley. There is very little to no reception at all in the park so it’s very important you have your map ready to go way before you even make it to the park entrance.

Beat the Heat
Death Valley is hot. Even in the middle of winter in January it was almost unbearable having to walk 20 minutes in an open trail. So, plan your Death Valley itinerary earlier in the day when the temperatures are lower.

Bring Plenty of Water
The best way to beat the Death Valley heat is to stay hydrated. Make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for your adventure.

Dress Appropriately
Death Valley is a desert and the temperatures can drop significantly in the evening. To avoid getting too hot or too cold, pack layers and a nice wide hat!

Be Prepared
Death Valley is a special place, but it also can be dangerous. Be sure to check out current conditions before your visit, and read Death Valley’s regulations on the NPS website.

Fill Your Gas Tank Frequently
Gas stations are few and far in between in Death Valley, so make sure to fill your gas tank even before entering the park.

Cellular Service is Very Limited in Death Valley
Death Valley is remote and it can be hard to get cellular service. Be prepared to be unplugged for your adventure 🙂

what to pack for one day in death valley

Water
Bring as much as you can – Death Valley is hot and staying hydrated is key. Keep them in insulated water bottles – my favorite is this Corkcicle which keeps my water ice cold all day!

Sun Protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, hats and long sleeves are all must haves to protect you from Death Valley’s beating sun. Stick to light colored clothes too, which will help deflect heat from your body. Bring a nice wide brimmer hat for maximum self-shade!

Layers
Death Valley is hot during the day, but temperatures can drop significantly at night. Bring a jacket and other layers to keep you warm.

Cooler and Ice
A small travel size cooler is always great to keep at the back of your car! Keep your food and drinks nice and cool especially in a hot place like this.

Camera
Don’t forget your camera to capture all the beautiful landscapes and textures! A tripod will also come in handy – I’m admittedly still a bit lazy when it comes to bringing out a tripod but it’s always always given me better results. I highly recommend this Ubeesize 67″ Tripod which is affordable, lightweight, and very sturdy.

Extra clothes and socks
Deserts are dusty, so extra clothes and socks for after your Death Valley hike/s are key to keeping comfortable throughout the day.

First Aid Kit
In Death Valley, you’re more than likely far away from help so your best bet is to be prepared. Make sure you have a first aid kit on hand with bandaids, gauze, antibiotic ointment and other supplies.

Medicine
Always keep a mini medicine kit with medications you might need. Sometimes some ailments like to strike us in the most inconvenient times and although you’ll find common over-the-counter medication in the park’s general stores, it’s best to be prepared especially when you’re an hour away from the nearest one.

FAQ

in conclusion

Death Valley National Park is an incredible destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. With its unique desert landscape, Death Valley offers a variety of activities to explore such as hiking, camping, and sightseeing. From the mysterious salt flats to vibrant sunsets that light up the night sky – Death Valley has something for everyone! So plan your perfect Death Valley itinerary today and experience all this amazing park has to offer. Don’t forget to pack plenty of water and sunscreen; it’s going to be an unforgettable journey!