Death Valley holds records: the lowest point in North America (Badwater Basin at -282 feet), the hottest recorded air temperature on Earth (134°F), and some of the driest conditions anywhere. It sounds inhospitable, but for hikers willing to respect its extremes, Death Valley offers remarkable experiences—slot canyons, colorful badlands, high peaks, and a stark beauty found nowhere else.
The key is timing and preparation. Summer hiking can be deadly; winter and spring reveal a surprisingly accessible landscape with trails ranging from short walks to multi-day expeditions.
Best Hikes
Golden Canyon to Zabriskie Point
- Distance: 4.5 miles one way
- Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
A spectacular walk through colorful badlands, eroded canyons, and otherworldly geology. The route passes Red Cathedral's towering walls before climbing to the iconic Zabriskie Point overlook.
Mosaic Canyon
- Distance: 4.0 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
A narrow slot canyon with polished marble walls—smooth, swirled rock that feels like walking through a sculpture. The canyon narrows dramatically, requiring some scrambling.
Telescope Peak
- Distance: 14.0 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 3,000 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
The highest point in the park at 11,049 feet, Telescope Peak offers views from Mount Whitney to Badwater Basin—the highest and lowest points in the Lower 48 visible together.
Natural Bridge
- Distance: 1.0 mile round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
A short walk to a natural rock bridge spanning a canyon. The surrounding geology is fascinating, with colorful rock layers exposed by erosion.
When to Visit
Seasonal Guidance
- November-March: Prime hiking season; comfortable temperatures
- April-May: Can be warm at low elevations; wildflowers possible
- June-September: DANGEROUS heat at low elevations; high peaks may be hikeable
- October: Transitional; check temperatures
Summer Considerations
Summer temperatures routinely exceed 120°F at lower elevations. Heat-related deaths occur every year. If you must visit in summer:
- Stick to high-elevation trails only
- Hike before dawn if at all
- Never hike alone
- Carry excessive water
Safety Essentials
Death Valley demands respect:
Water
- Carry at least 1 gallon per person per day
- No reliable water sources on most trails
- Drink before you feel thirsty
Heat Illness
- Know symptoms: headache, nausea, confusion, cessation of sweating
- Shade and cool water are treatment
- Evacuate immediately if symptoms appear
Vehicle Preparedness
- Full tank of gas
- Extra water for radiator
- Spare tire in good condition
- Tell someone your plans
Flash Floods
Avoid canyons when rain threatens—even rain falling miles away can send walls of water through narrow canyons with little warning.
More Trails to Explore
Wildrose Peak
- Distance: 8.4 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Strenuous
A high-elevation alternative to Telescope Peak with excellent views.
Darwin Falls
- Distance: 2.0 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
Yes, there's a waterfall in Death Valley! A year-round stream creates this oasis on the park's western edge.
Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes
- Distance: Varies
- Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
Classic desert sand dunes perfect for sunrise or sunset exploration. No trail—just pick a direction and wander.
Practical Information
Getting There
Death Valley is about 2 hours from Las Vegas, 4-5 hours from Los Angeles. The park is vast—plan extra time for driving within its boundaries.
Fees
$30 per vehicle for 7-day entry.
Lodging
Options within the park:
- Furnace Creek (full-service resort)
- Stovepipe Wells (simpler accommodations)
- Several campgrounds
Gas is expensive in the park—fill up before arriving.
Quick Reference
| Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Golden Canyon | 4.5 mi | Moderate | Colorful badlands |
| Mosaic Canyon | 4.0 mi | Moderate | Slot canyon |
| Telescope Peak | 14.0 mi | Strenuous | Highest point |
| Natural Bridge | 1.0 mi | Easy | Rock arch |
Death Valley's extremes make it one of the most fascinating hiking destinations in America. The stark beauty of the badlands, the silence of the desert, and the dramatic geology create experiences unlike anywhere else. Visit in the cooler months, respect the environment's power, and discover why this seemingly barren landscape draws visitors from around the world.
