Things to do in Death Valley

Hiking

There are numerous trails within the park, ranging in difficulty from short loops to overnight, mountainous treks. Always bring sufficient water when hiking in Death Valley; also be aware of the weather forecast. Heavy rain on a mountain miles away could result in a dangerous flash flood on the valley floor on in one of many canyon narrows.

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Golden Canyon Interpretive Trail

First pick up an interpretive trail map from the Furnace Creek Visitor Center, then enjoy the exploration of a colorful canyon while learning about your surroundings. Continue past the Red Cathederal and go another two miles and you will reach Zabriskie Point with its painterly striations of muddy red, and sandy tan. See theTrailMaster's detailed account of Golden Canyon Trail >>

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Mosaic Canyon

Here is your chance to wind through a rocky labyrinth polished by the heavy flow of sediment-rich runoff. The beginning of the trail is relatively easy, becoming more difficult as you move on and up.

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Natural Bridge Canyon

Here is a pretty short hike, about one mile, that comes thourgh with a nice little surprise a natural bridge. The trail passes through the bridge's 50-foot-tall opening, near the trail's end.

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Sand Dunes

The dune fields just east of Stovepipe Wells Village is a great place to roam. No trails here, just lots of sand for play and exploration. A popular nighttime area when the moon is bright.

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Telescope Peak Trail

For the hearty and experienced hiker, Telescope Peak is a test that rewards with the cooler air of higher altitude. Climbing some 3,000 feet to the 11,049-ft. summit, this trail requires 14 miles of strenuous hiking. If you visit in the winter bring your crampons and ice axe.

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Photography

The odd geologic formations in the park are great for early morning and late evening photography, although during the day the harsh sun tends to wash out most photographs. During March and April the wildflowers within the valley bloom, making it a particularly photogenic time of year.

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Stargazing

The clear desert air, scarcity of clouds, and and lack of nearby light pollution makes Death Valley an ideal spot for stargazing. Ideally come during a new moon to fully appreciate the darkness of the night sky.

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Four-wheel driving

Death Valley has numerous high-clearance roads that offer a challenge for four-wheel drive enthusiasts. Driving off-road is not permitted.

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Scotty's Castle Tours

Not quite a castle, but a luxurious desert dwelling,Scotty's Castle is a must-see Death Valley attraction. Tours of the one-time home of an eccentric resident of Death Valley are offered daily from 9:00 AM until 5:00 PM, departing at least once an hour and lasting for fifty minutes. Costs are $11 per person (discounts for seniors and children) and there may be a wait for tickets, so try to purchase them several hours in advance of your preferred tour time. Note that tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis. Ubehebe Crater, located at this end of the park, is a fine destination if you have to wait for your tour. Food and Souvenirs are available.

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Badwater ultramarathon

Only for the truly insane, the 135-mile course from Badwater (elevation -282 feet) to the Mt. Whitney trailhead (elevation 8360 feet) is billed as the world's toughest race. Adding to the difficulty, the race is held annually during July, the hottest month of the year. In 2004, 72 people toed the starting line, and 57 battered, burned, and exhausted souls officially finished by crossing the finish line within 60 hours (the course record is just over 25 hours). For those with a death wish, more info can be found at www.badwaterultra.com.

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Cycling and Mountain Biking

Because most (94%) of the park is federally designated wilderness, cycling is allowed only on roads used by automobiles. Mountain biking is not allowed on hiking trails.

Good routes for cyclists include Racetrack (28 miles, mostly level), Greenwater Valley (30 miles, mostly level), Cottonwood Canyon (20 miles), and West Side Road (40 miles, fairly level with some washboard sections). Artists Drive is 8 miles long, paved, with some steep uphills. A favorite is Titus Canyon (28 miles on a hilly road—it’s highly recommended that you makes this a one-way descent).

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