Death Valley National Park
California, Nevada
8.2/ 10
Highlights
Badwater Basin
Zabriskie Point
Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes
Artists Palette
Dantes View
Best Time to Visit
Winter
Plan your visit during these months for the best weather, wildlife viewing, and trail access. Always check NPS.gov for current conditions before your trip.
Activities
Scenic DrivesStargazingHikingPhotography4WD Adventures
Visitor Tips
- ✓Never visit in summer without extreme heat preparations — temps exceed 120°F.
- ✓Bring at least a gallon of water per person per day.
- ✓The super bloom is rare but spectacular after wet winters.
Crowd Level
Low
This park sees relatively few visitors, making it ideal for a peaceful experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Death Valley National Park?
Winter is generally the prime time to visit Death Valley. Winter balances weather, trail access, and crowd levels for the best overall experience. Always check the official NPS site for current conditions and seasonal road closures before traveling.
How many days do you need in Death Valley?
Most visitors spend 2–3 days at Death Valley National Park, which is enough to see the main highlights and complete at least one longer hike. A 4–5 day visit lets you explore less-crowded areas, hit multiple trailheads, and adjust for weather. Add an extra day if you plan to backpack or drive long scenic roads.
How crowded is Death Valley National Park?
Death Valley has a crowd level we rate as "Low". This park sees relatively few visitors, making it ideal for a peaceful experience even in peak season. Visiting on weekdays, in shoulder season, or starting your day before 9 AM will dramatically improve the experience.
What are the top things to do in Death Valley?
Top experiences in Death Valley include: Badwater Basin, Zabriskie Point, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Artists Palette, plus scenic drives and stargazing. Don't miss Badwater Basin — it's the park's signature stop.
Where is Death Valley National Park?
Death Valley National Park is located in California and Nevada. The main entrances and visitor centers are accessible by car, and gateway towns provide lodging, food, and supplies. Check our park guide for driving directions and the closest airports.
Do I need a reservation for Death Valley?
Some areas of Death Valley require advance reservations — particularly for camping, backcountry permits, and during peak season. Check the NPS reservation system (recreation.gov) 2–3 months ahead for summer visits. Day-use entry generally does not require a reservation outside of peak periods.
How much does it cost to enter Death Valley National Park?
Death Valley charges a per-vehicle entrance fee (typically $20–$35 for a 7-day pass). The $80 America the Beautiful annual pass covers Death Valley and every other national park — a strong value if you visit more than one park in a year. Children under 16 enter free with a paying adult.
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