What to Do in Death Valley: The Complete Guide

Are you wondering if you should plan a trip to Death Valley National Park? Or what there is to do in Death Valley? As a National Parks lover, I can’t say I was too excited about our trip to Death Valley. I fell in love with the lush scenery in Zion and Sequoia and I wasn’t sure I would appreciate the seemingly monotone desert landscape. But after spending a day at the park, I’m excited to share my experience and a few tips that might help you when planning your trip to Death Valley!

Timing is everything when it comes to planning a trip to the hottest national park - Death Valley National Park.  Temperatures soar to nearly 120 degrees in the summer months and there are less than 5 days of rainfall per year. 

We traveled to Death Valley over a weekend in early December and visited quite a few of the major attractions in one day.  Here’s a quick breakdown of the average weather by season so you can plan accordingly.

Weather in Death Valley

Winter (December - February)

Wintertime is a great time to visit Death Valley with average daytime temperatures in the high 60s to mid-70s.  This weather coupled with the typical sunny skies make for the ideal sightseeing and light hiking conditions.  I highly recommend visiting the park during the winter months.

Spring (March - May)

The spring months quickly rise into undesirable temperatures and conditions for hiking or sightseeing.  Temperatures average from the mid 80’s to the triple digits. 

Summer (June - August)

Summertime is infernal in Death Valley with temperatures reaching newly 120 degrees.  The high temperatures and exposed terrain make it impossible to enjoy a trip there during the scorching summer months.

Fall (September - November)

The fall months slowly trickle down from the 100 degree weather into slightly less severe temperatures ranging in the high 70s to low 90s. This makes November an option for travelers who can withstand a little more heat.  I wouldn’t recommend visiting the park before then.

These are a few of the most highly recommended spots to visit on your trip to Death Valley:

Death Valley Attractions

Dante’s Point

Our first stop was Dante’s Point, and it did not disappoint.It’s a vast and panoramic view of the basin and one of the most spectacular sights I saw at the park.It’s worth the drive and quick hike to the top of the hill, but if you’re short on time or tired from other hikes the overlook point is a great spot to take a breath and enjoy the view.

Zabriskie Point

This is a very popular sunrise and sunset view location and was emphatically recommended to us by the park ranger.  We took advantage of the observation point to have a quick lunch while taking in the view.  I have no doubt that the sunrise and sunset hours are remarkable from here, the pictures we’ve seen online are incredible and speak for themselves.  Hopefully, you can squeeze this spot in!

Artist’s Pallet

A windy and enjoyable drive with beautiful pastel-colored hills waiting for you at the observation point.  I highly recommend a stop here to take in the sights, enjoy a light hike through the colorful backdrop and a few fun pictures.  The hills are a light pastel color in person so a white outfit or bright pop of color could make for a cool contrast.    

Mesquite Sand Dunes

A long drive through the park takes you to the sand dunes, where you will see people climbing to the top of the dunes and a few adventure seekers sand surfing and running down the dunes.  We took a few snacks and a small picnic blanket with us to enjoy the view and end of our day sightseeing at the park.  I recommend giving yourself enough time to get to the dunes since the walk will take longer than it seems from the parking lot.  Sand makes you work for those steps!

Badwater Basin – Salt Flats

Probably one of the most popular attractions at the park, Badwater Basin is the lowest point in North America sitting at 282 ft below sea level.  The salt flats are expansive and can be seen for miles in every direction, approximately 200 square miles total!  You can walk and even have a little taste of the salty rocks nearby.  Be prepared for a fully exposed walk through the flats, I highly recommend a hat and sunglasses along with enough water to comfortably explore the area.

Where to stay in Death Valley National Park

There are resort accomodations, hotels and campgrounds inside the park. The Inn at Death Valley offers a desert oasis experience with a pool surrounded by palm trees, spa amenities and tennis courts. The Ranch at Death Valley has a golf course, horseback rides and plenty of activities for the family! Prices differ by about $100 - $300 per night for the two resorts depending on the time of year, with the Inn being the most expensive. Campgrounds fees seem to remain steady around $30 per/night.

Where to stay close to Death Valley National Park

Staying in the park is incredibly convenient, but there are plenty of options for lodging outside of the park if you don’t mind driving about 50 mins. We opted for an Airbnb in Pahrump, NV - it had 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and a cute backyard with a firepit. There are many options in the area that are pet friendly and have pools. If you do decide to stay in Pahrump, be sure to check out the Chatthai Bistro! Great Thai food with even better service located in a little strip mall.

What should you wear to visit Death Valley?

You will want to wear something comfortable and breathable when you visit Death Valley.  I recommend trail shoes or tennis shoes with leggings or bicycle shorts and a tank or t-shirt - throw on a jacket around sunset and you’ll be good all day.  Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and your favorite sunglasses! 

I wore a Death Valley tank top from CottonOn, Nike leggings, Nike tennis shoes and my favorite Ray-Bans - after sunset I threw on a bright colored jacket.  Added bonus, a highlighter color will pop in the desert landscape and your friends can easily spot you!

I hope this information was helpful! Follow me on instagram at @besoscarolina for more. Enjoy your trip to Death Valley!