About Death Valley
In this below-sea-level basin, steady drought and record summer heat make Death Valley a land of extremes. Yet, each extreme has a striking contrast. Towering peaks are frosted with winter snow. Rare rainstorms bring vast fields of wildflowers. Lush oases harbor tiny fish and refuge for wildlife and humans. Despite its morbid name, a great diversity of life thrives in Death Valley.
Things to do: Astronomy · Stargazing · Biking · Mountain Biking · Road Biking · Camping · Backcountry Camping · Car or Front Country Camping · Canyoneering · Food · Flying · Golf · Guided Tours · Hiking
Popular trails
Curated routes with approximate round-trip distance. In the app, tap one to log it.
- Golden Canyon Trail6.4 mi
- Mosaic Canyon Trail4.0 mi
- Darwin Falls Trail2.6 mi
- Badwater Salt Flat Walk0.6 mi
- Zabriskie Point Trail1.4 mi
- Natural Bridge Canyon Trail2.0 mi
Camping
Approximately 1000 campsites across the park's campgrounds. Reservations are strongly recommended in peak season (October – April).
Best time to visit
Peak season: October – April. The park is open year-round, though some roads and facilities close or run reduced hours in winter.
SPRING is the most popular time to visit Death Valley. Warm and sunny days with the possibility of spring wildflowers is a big attraction. SUMMER starts early in Death Valley. By May the valley can be scorching hot. AUTUMN arrives in late October, with warm but pleasant temperatures and generally clear skies. WINTER has cool days, chilly nights and rarely, rainstorms.
With snow capping the high peaks and low angled winter light, this season is especially beautiful for exploring the valley.
Entrance fees
- Entrance - Private Vehicle — All visitors, including Non-US residents, may purchase and utilize this entrance fee. Purchasing this entrance fee allows all persons traveling in one single private, non-commercial vehicle (car/truck/van/RV/aircraft) to leave and re-enter the park as many times as they wish during the 7-day period from the date of purchase.$30
- Entrance - Motorcycle — All visitors, including Non-US residents, may purchase and utilize this entrance fee. Purchasing this entrance fee allows all persons traveling on 2 private, non-commercial motorcycles to leave and re-enter the park as many times as they wish during the 7-day period from the date of purchase.$25
- Entrance - Per Person — All visitors, including Non-US residents, may purchase and utilize this entrance fee. Purchasing this entrance fee allows a single individual traveling on foot or individuals traveling on one bicycle to leave and re-enter the park as many times as they wish during the 7-day period from the date of purchase.$15
- Commercial Entrance - Per Person — 1 - 15 Passenger Vehicle: $15 per person. In addition to the entrance fees listed below, additional permits are required for commercial groups, special park uses (weddings, memorialization, group events, etc.), commercial film and photography, research, and more.$15
- Commercial Entrance - Mini-bus — 16 - 25 Passenger Vehicle: $100 In addition to the entrance fees listed below, additional permits are required for commercial groups, special park uses (weddings, memorialization, group events, etc.), commercial film and photography, research, and more.$100
Annual Entrance - Park: $55. An America the Beautiful pass ($80/yr) covers every national park.
Getting there
Nearest city: Las Vegas, NV. Park center: 36.240°, -116.820°.
There are multiple entrances to the park. Click below to learn the best ways to travel to Death Valley.
Common questions
How much does it cost to visit Death Valley National Park?
Entrance - Private Vehicle: $30. Entrance - Motorcycle: $25. Entrance - Per Person: $15.
When is the best time to visit Death Valley?
Peak season is October – April. The park is open year-round, with some roads and facilities on reduced winter schedules. SPRING is the most popular time to visit Death Valley. Warm and sunny days with the possibility of spring wildflowers is a big attraction. SUMMER starts early in Death Valley. By May the valley can be scorching hot. AUTUMN arrives in late October, with warm but pleasant temperatures and generally clear skies. WINTER has cool days, chilly nights and rarely, rainstorms.
Can you camp in Death Valley National Park?
Yes — about 1000 campsites across the park's campgrounds. Reserve ahead in peak season.
What is the closest city to Death Valley National Park?
Las Vegas, NV is the nearest major city. There are multiple entrances to the park. Click below to learn the best ways to travel to Death Valley.
What are the best hikes in Death Valley?
Popular trails include Golden Canyon Trail (6.4 mi), Mosaic Canyon Trail (4.0 mi), Darwin Falls Trail (2.6 mi), Badwater Salt Flat Walk (0.6 mi). The park has roughly 785 named trails.
Plan your trip
The practical bits, so more of the weekend goes to the trail.