How To Make The Most Of Death Valley In One Day: What to See and Do (Best Viewpoints)
We had the opportunity to explore Death Valley National Park when we were on our month-long road trip which took us from Nashville all the way to Hawaii. Among the numerous stops, this destination stood out remarkably. It quickly became one of our favorite national parks, mostly because it is completely different from any other national park we had seen so far. The funny things is, we explored Death Valley in one day only!
Despite its daunting reputation as one of the most extreme and potentially deadly national parks in the United States – primarily due to its scorching heat and the absence of gas stations within its vast expanses – we managed to explore and appreciate this extraordinary place in just one day.
Our visit to Death Valley was an unforgettable American experience, showcasing a side of nature that’s both awe-inspiring and humbling. The park’s diverse landscapes range from salt flats and sand dunes to mountains and canyons, each offering a glimpse into the earth’s raw beauty and power.
In this post, we’re excited to share our one-day itinerary in Death Valley. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a curious traveler, our journey through this remarkable national park will provide insights and tips to help you make the most of your visit.
In this post, we promote travel to a national park that is the traditional lands of the Timbisha Shoshone and Newe (Western Shoshone). With respect, we make a formal land acknowledgment, extending our appreciation and respect to the past and present people of these lands. Learn more at Native Land.
Is one day enough for Death Valley?
Absolutely! While it’s true that you can always choose to spend more time in any national park, a single day is sufficient to experience the main highlights of Death Valley. This expansive park, known for its stunning landscapes and unique geological features, can be quite rewarding even in a short visit.
Unless you’re particularly keen on extensive hiking or in-depth exploration, a Death Valley day trip will allow you to see the most notable sights and get a good feel for the beauty and vastness of the area. So, if you’re limited on time or just passing through, rest assured that one day in Death Valley can be a fulfilling and memorable experience.
Death Valley In A Day Map
One Day in Death Valley Summary Table
| Time of Day | Location | Activity Description |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Dante’s View | Witness a stunning sunrise and 360-degree views of Death Valley from 5,575 ft. |
| Zabriskie Point | Marvel at the colorful badlands and erosional landscape from an elevated vista. | |
| Break | Furnace Creek | Refresh with food and updated park information, and refuel if needed. |
| Afternoon | Badwater Salt Flats | Explore the lowest point in North America with its expansive salt flats. |
| Artist’s Drive | Enjoy a scenic drive through colorful rock formations, including Artist’s Palette. |
Spending One Day in Death Valley: Morning Itinerary
1. Dante’s View, the best of the Death Valley in a day
Start your day early with a sunrise visit to Dante’s View. This incredible vantage point offers an unparalleled view of Death Valley. At an altitude of 5,575 feet (1,699 meters), it’s not only cooler but also provides a fantastic perspective. From Dante’s View, located on the ridge of the Black Mountains, you can clearly see the salt flats of Badwater Basin below. The early morning light beautifully highlights the unique landscape, making it a photographer’s dream. Plus, the 360-degree view of Death Valley from this spot is truly breathtaking and a perfect way to start your adventure. This was one of the best views of our west coast road trip part.
2. Zabriskie Point
After soaking in the sunrise at Dante’s View, head to Zabriskie Point, just a short 7-minute drive from Furnace Creek. Zabriskie Point is part of the Amargosa Range and is celebrated for its stunning erosional landscape. This geological wonder was formed by sediments from the ancient Furnace Creek Lake, which dried up 5 million years ago, long before Death Valley formed.
At Zabriskie Point, you’ll be treated to an elevated vista of the badlands below. The yellow and brown-striped hills, shaped by the power of water, offer a dramatic and stark contrast to the surrounding desert. Even in dry times, the water’s path is evident in the landscape. Looking beyond the badlands, you can see the expansive salt flats of Death Valley, with the imposing Panamint Mountains in the distance. A standout feature here is Manly Beacon, rising to an elevation of 823 feet (251 meters), its prominent structure a highlight of the Death Valley landscape.
These two morning stops provide a rich and varied introduction to Death Valley’s unique and diverse landscapes, setting the stage for an unforgettable day in the park.
3. Taking a Lunch Break at Furnace Creek
After your morning explorations, Furnace Creek is the ideal spot for a well-deserved break. This area serves as a central hub in Death Valley and offers the most updated information about the park, which can be really useful if you’re planning your activities on the go. Here, you can grab some food and refreshments, perfect for recharging your energy for the afternoon adventures.
Furnace Creek isn’t just a practical stop; it also boasts some cool views of its own. While you’re enjoying your meal or snack, you can take in the sights of this unique location, nestled in the heart of Death Valley.
And if you’re running low on gas, don’t worry – there’s a gas station right in Furnace Creek. It’s always a good idea to top off your tank in remote areas like Death Valley, where gas stations are few and far between.
This break at Furnace Creek will set you up nicely for the rest of your day in the park, ensuring you’re well-fed, informed, and ready to continue exploring the wonders of Death Valley.
Afternoon Exploration in Death Valley
4. Badwater Salt Flats, the highlight of this death valley one day itinerary
In the afternoon, head towards the Badwater Salt Flats. Located at the southern end of Badwater Road, this area is a must-see. Badwater Basin holds the record for being the lowest point in North America, sitting at 282 feet (about 86 meters) below sea level. The salt flats here are an incredible sight, stretching out in a vast white expanse that feels almost otherworldly.
Be prepared for the heat; it’s quite intense. When we visited, our car thermometer indicated a scorching 50 degrees Celsius. The wind can be strong too, adding to the extreme conditions. Walking on the salt flats is a unique experience, though challenging due to the heat. But it’s worth it for the surreal feeling of being on another planet.
5. Artist’s Drive
After your visit to the salt flats, take the nine-mile loop of Artist’s Drive. This scenic detour branches off from Badwater Road and is a one-way road. Along the way, there are several pull-outs and parking areas, as well as a few easy trails to explore.
The main highlight of Artist’s Drive is the Artist’s Palette. This area is renowned for its colorful and vibrant landscape, with hues of pink, green, purple, and yellow adorning the hills. The colors are a result of the various minerals present in the rocks, creating a natural masterpiece that’s a feast for the eyes.
This drive is not just a journey through a unique geological feature, but it’s also an opportunity to witness the natural artistry of Death Valley. As the sunlight shifts in the afternoon, it can dramatically change the appearance of the landscape, making it a photographer’s delight.
Exploring these two locations in the afternoon offers a mix of the extreme and the beautiful, showcasing the diverse and dramatic nature of Death Valley.
Other Things to See in Death Valley in One Day
- Hike Golden Canyon to the Red Cathedral:
- Best avoided during midday due to intense heat.
- Golden Canyon connects to various trails in the Badlands.
- An easy-to-moderate hike, approximately 3 miles out and back.
- Features stunning rock formations along the way.
- Mosaic Canyon Trail:
- A four-mile out-and-back trail.
- Difficulty ranges from easy to difficult.
- Offers unique geological features and landscapes.
- Additional Activities for Extended Stays:
- Panamint Springs and the West Part of the Park: Explore more remote and less-visited areas.
- Hike to Darwin Falls: Discover a rare waterfall in the midst of the desert.
- Stroll to Salt Creek: Observe unique fish species in their natural habitat.
- Hike to Natural Bridge: A relatively short hike to a remarkable natural rock formation.
- Devil’s Golf Course: Marvel at the unusual and intricate salt formations.
Quick Facts about Death Valley
- It’s the 5th largest national park in the United States
- It’s 3.4 million acres large (5,270 square miles)
- Main roads through the park:
- California 190 (CA-190), which bisects the park from east to west.
- Badwater Road, which runs north-south from Furnace Creek to Badwater Basin.
- Artist’s Drive, which loops off of Badwater Road to visit Artist’s Palette.
- Visitor Centre: Furnace Creek
- Highest temperatures: 134 degrees Fahrenheit (56 Celsius)
- Private vehicle entrance fee, for 7 days, is $30
- Walking entrance fee: $15
- Annual America the Beautiful Pass: $80
- Lunch stop: Toll Road Restaurant at Stovepipe Wells or 1849 Restaurant at the Ranch at Death Valley
Have any other questions about how to spend one day in Death Valley? Let us know in the comments!
National Park Quiz
Not sure Death Valley is for you? Take our quiz to find out which national park is best for you:
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We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.
With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.