First-Timers Can’t Miss These 12 Photogenic Things to Do in Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is a land of extremes, holding the world record for the hottest place ever recorded on Earth, at 134F. Despite its harsh conditions, this desert presents otherworldly landscapes you won’t find anywhere else.

If this is your first time visiting this incredible desert wonderland, you’ll find golden sand dunes at sunset, a technicolor canyon, and mysterious moving rocks.

I’ve been here three times and still haven’t seen all the best things to do in Death Valley. So plan on spending at least two days or three to see everything on this list, and don’t come in the summer months. You’ve been warned.

1. Dante’s Viewpoint

Dante’s Viewpoint has some amazing panoramic views of the whole Coachella Valley. On clear days, you can see for miles, giving you a good feel for Death Valley’s size before you check out other spots.

You’ll get a great look at Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America. The morning light really brings out the colors, making it perfect for photos.

2. Badwater Basin

After seeing it from up top, walk around the white expanse of Badwater Basin, the lowest spot in North America! Walking on those huge salt flats feels unreal, and the farther you wander from the parking lot, the whiter and purer the salt gets.

Bring lots of water because it gets super hot, even in the early morning. Even though it’s tough out there, the basin has a unique beauty you must see for yourself. It’s one of those places where you really feel the extremes of nature.

3. Devil’s Golf Course

On your way out (or in), make a detour to Devil’s Golf Course nearby. This dried-up lake bed is filled with sharp salt crystals that look like devil’s horns. If you’re walking out onto the formations, stay steady, as even a light trip will leave your knees and hands bloodied.

Walking on this rugged ground, the crunch of salt under your feet is a cool contrast to the desert’s quiet. It’s also way less crowded than other more popular sights in Death Valley.

4. Artist’s Palette

Take a chill drive through the one-way loop of Artist’s Palette to check out the bright hues of pink, gold, and aquamarine-colored hills from mineral deposits. It takes about 30 minutes, but there are plenty of spots to stop and snap some pics.

The colorful rocks really pop during sunrise or sunset when the light makes them shine. It’s a fun, easy drive that adds some color to your Death Valley trip.

5. Golden Canyon Trailhead

Take a break from driving and hit up the Golden Canyon Trailhead for a hike! This 3-mile round-trip trail takes you through some gorgeous golden and reddish canyon walls. As you stroll along, you’ll spot the Red Cathedral and Manly Beacon—two must-see landmarks. It’s an easy hike but still gives you some great views and a decent workout. If you’re short on time, just walk to the Red Cathedral and back. You’ll get an up-close look at the park’s awesome rock formations!

6. Mesquite Sand Dunes

I’m split between which is more epic for the sunset: Mesquite Sand Dunes or Zabriskie Point. If you choose these sand dunes, the color of the sand shifts with the setting sun. The further you walk into the dunes, the less human impact you’ll see, leaving you in an untouched landscape.

It’s a great place for photography or just enjoying the quiet beauty of the desert. The terrain can be challenging, so allow extra time before you find the perfect spot.

7. Zabriskie Point

If you’re looking for another amazing sunset spot, Zabriskie Point is a short walk from the parking lot to a badland expanse. The colors during golden hour are amazing, making it a favorite for sunset watchers.

Plus, if you stick around after dark, it’s a fantastic spot for stargazing! The night sky really transforms the area, giving you a gorgeous view of constellations and meteor showers. Just remember to bring a blanket and some warm clothes because it can get chilly!

8. Ubehebe Crater

Most people don’t venture far out to Ubehebe Crater, a huge volcanic crater that formed ages ago! This is mostly because it is a bit of a drive. The area isn’t super crowded, so you can enjoy an even more peaceful part of an already very quiet desert.

The hike around the rim gives you awesome views of the crater and the area around it. The black rocks look amazing against the desert backdrop.

9. Natural Bridge Trail

The Natural Bridge Trail is a short but sweet trail, about 2 miles round-trip, and takes you on an easy, well-marked path to a natural rock bridge.

As you start your hike, you’ll enter a narrow canyon with tall walls on either side carved by ancient waters. The highlight of the hike is, of course, the natural bridge itself, which spans high above the canyon floor. You can continue past the bridge for a short distance to see more of the canyon.

10. Darwin Falls

It is always amazing to find a hidden watery oasis in the middle of an arid desert. Darwin Falls is one such place.

To get to this cool waterfall, take a short hike through some nice greenery and cool streams, a refreshing escape from the dry park surroundings. The falls might be small, but they’re beautiful when you consider it is one of the rare places in Death Valley where you can find running water all year long!

Closure! Due to flooding, damaged roads have closed this attraction until at least Fall 2024.

11. Rhyolite Ghost Town

Take a trip back in time to Rhyolite Ghost Town, an ex-mining town. It’s right outside the park, so it’s super easy to add to your plans.

Stroll through the ruins and picture what life was like back during the mining boom. It’s a different experience that adds some history to your desert adventure.

12. Sailing Rocks on Racetrack Playa

Deep within Death Valley’s mysterious Racetrack Playa lies one of nature’s most intriguing phenomena: the Sailing Rocks. This flat, dry lakebed is home to large stones that seemingly move on their own, leaving long, winding trails etched into the cracked earth behind them.

How do they move? Recent studies suggest a combination of freezing nights, thawing days, and just the right amount of wind cause the rocks to slide.

To reach this destination, you’ll need a high-clearance vehicle as you navigate the rough 27-mile dirt road from Ubehebe Crater.

Sample One Day in Death Valley Itinerary

• Start your Death Valley itinerary at Dante’s Viewpoint for a view of the valley floor.
• Head down to the salt flats of Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America.
• As you drive out for lunch, stop by Devil’s Golf Course, then hike or drive through one of the many scenic canyons, like Artist’s Palette.
• As the day ends, watch the sunset from the surreal badlands of Zabriskie Point or the Mesquite Flats Sand Dunes.

Other Things to Do in Death Valley

These hidden gem experiences are definitely some of the park’s best-kept secrets.

• Mosaic Canyon: Scenic hike through this twisting canyon with mosaic-like rock formations.
• Titus Canyon (Closed until Jan 2025): Drive or hike through towering cliffs.
• Ballarat Ghost Town: Visit the remnants of this abandoned town, once a bustling mining community.
• Scotty’s Castle (Close until late 2025): Take a trip to Scotty’s Castle, a historic mansion located in the remote northern section of the park.

Places to See Near Death Valley

I normally keep day trips under three hours, but Death Valley National Park is huge and way out there, so how long it takes really depends on where you’re at in the park.

• Las Vegas, Nevada (2 hours): You already know the glamour of Sin City.
• Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Nevada (1.5 hours): Red rock formations and desert vistas with hiking trails just outside Las Vegas
• Mount Charleston, Nevada (2 hours): If you need a break from the desert heat, Mount Charleston is the place for hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter.
• Sequoia National Park, California (4.5 hours): Towering sequoia trees throughout this park include the famous General Sherman Tree.
• Los Angeles, California (3.5 hours): Shop in Rodeo Drive and take in the sun on Venice for a chance to spot your favorite celebrities.
• Joshua Tree National Park, California (3.5 hours): Pose with the spiky Joshua Trees and giant boulders in this California national park favorite.

MY FAVORITE TRAVEL RESOURCES

✈️ Find amazing guided tours and experiences with Viator to maximize your time! 🏘️ Plan ahead and secure your accommodation with Booking.com in advance. 🧾 Rent a car with Discovercars in advance and get the best prices for your day trip adventures.