Optimizing Your Death Valley Itinerary: A Comprehensive Guide

Death Valley is a unique and vast national park that offers some of the most dramatic landscapes in the United States. Many visitors drive through it quickly, stopping only at a few well-known landmarks. However, to truly experience the depths of this desert wilderness, it's best to spend at least two days—preferably three—exploring its diverse natural wonders.

Accommodation Options

You can base yourself at two developed areas in the park: Stovepipe Wells and Furnace Creek. Both offer a range of lodging options, from hotels to campgrounds. Camping is a great option, as there are several campgrounds scattered throughout the valley. Most are first-come, first-served, and rarely full, providing a peaceful and immersive experience.

Stovepipe Wells Campground

My personal favorite was the Stovepipe Wells Campground, just across from Stovepipe Wells Village Hotel. This campground provides easy access to the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, which are particularly exciting to explore during the early morning hours when the sand is cooler and less slippery.

Top Destinations to Explore

As you venture through the park, you'll pass by several notable sites that should not be missed.

Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes

The Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes are a must-see for anyone visiting Death Valley. Explore this vast sand playground early in the morning when the temperature is more manageable.

Harmony Borax Works

Harmony Borax Works is a fascinating site that showcases Death Valley’s mining history. Located on your route to Furnace Creek, this area tells the story of the borax mining industry that once thrived in the valley, including the iconic Twenty Mule Team Borax wagons.

Badwater Basin

Your journey through the park will bring you to Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America. Take a quick detour to the Devil's Golf Course, where you can walk on the unique desert landscapes and witness the extraordinary beauty of this remote location.

Scenic Drives and Sunset Views

A notable drive is scenic Route 190, which leads you from Furnace Creek to Stovepipe Wells. Along the way, you'll pass Salt Creek, home to endemic pupfish, and then continue to Badwater Basin for a memorable stroll through the surreal desert landscape.

After dinner, head to Dante’s View, a high point offering a stunning sunset over the vast expanse of Death Valley. This viewpoint provides a spectacular panorama of the valley, making it a perfect spot for sunset viewing.

Nighttime Stargazing

One of the most breathtaking features of Death Valley is its vast and undeveloped wilderness, which offers some of the best stargazing in the United States. The night sky here is incredibly clear, and stargazing is an unforgettable experience that you won't soon forget.

Active Adventures

The next day, put on your hiking boots, apply sunscreen, and hats, and explore Zabriskie Point, another famous lookout point. For a more challenging hike, the Golden Canyon, Gower Gulch and Badlands Loop is an excellent option. This loop takes you through the badlands, offering a unique and adventurous experience through the rugged terrain.

With these highlights, you'll be able to fill two whole days of exploration in Death Valley. Each day offers a new adventure, from early morning sand dunes to nighttime stargazing, making this park a must-visit destination for any nature lover.

- Richard