Death Valley National Park is a desert national park located in Eastern California, USA. It covers an area of about 3,000 square miles, featuring sand dunes, mountains, and canyons. The park has a unique landscape consisting of salt flats, valleys, and colorful rock formations. The park has been regarded as the hottest and driest place in North America, where temperatures can soar up to 134°F in the summer. Death Valley National Park is a popular tourist destination, attracting hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts from all over the world.
The closest airport to Death Valley is McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas, which is about a two-hour drive away. From there, take US-95 N to NV-373 W. From the west, Death Valley can be accessed via US 395 south to State Route 136 east, via Trona, California. It is important to have a sturdy vehicle and carry extra water when driving into the park as there are few services available.
The best time to visit Death Valley National Park is from October to April when the weather is cooler and the park is less crowded. Summer months can be dangerously hot with temperatures exceeding 120°F. However, if you visit in the summer, make sure to bring plenty of water and avoid hiking during peak hours.
The weather in Death Valley National Park can be extreme with summer temperatures rising over 120°F and winter nights sometimes dropping below freezing. During spring and fall, the weather is more pleasant with average temperatures ranging between 70°F to 90°F, making it the ideal time for hiking and exploring. Visitors should be prepared for sudden changes in weather and carry plenty of water and sunscreen to avoid heat exhaustion or sunburn.
Accommodation in Death Valley National Park ranges from $50 a night at campgrounds, $225 a night at the historic Inn at Furnace Creek to luxury accommodations at The Oasis at Death Valley that can cost over $400 per night. There are also options for RV and car camping, as well as backcountry camping permits.
Food costs in Death Valley National Park vary depending on whether you choose to eat at one of the park restaurants or bring your own food. Meals at park restaurants can range from $10 to $50 per person while groceries average around $20 for a day's worth of food. Visitors are allowed to bring their own food and there are several picnic areas throughout the park.
Death Valley National Park is considered safe, but visitors should be aware of the extreme temperatures and carry plenty of water when exploring the park. Crime rates are low, but visitors should take precautions when traveling to remote areas. Women and LGBTQ+ visitors may feel uncomfortable in some areas due to conservative beliefs and attitudes. Visitors are advised to respect local customs and dress modestly when entering places of worship or sacred sites.
Death Valley National Park does not have any permanent residents, but it is home to several plants and animal species, including the famously resilient desert tortoise. The park is located within the traditional territories of the Timbisha Shoshone and Southern Paiute peoples. English is the primary language spoken in the park, but visitors may encounter park staff and other visitors who speak other languages.
Popular activities at Death Valley National Park include hiking, camping, stargazing, and exploring the park's unique geological features. Visitors can also take guided tours, go bird watching, or visit the historic Furnace Creek Inn and Ranch Resort. The park is also known for its stunning sunsets and night skies, making it a great place for photography. Visitors should be aware of the potential dangers of hiking in extreme heat and carry plenty of water and sunscreen when exploring the park.