Death Valley National Park is filled with many views that will make you seem like you are on another planet! This amazing park is super underrated and contains many amazing spots, such as Dante’s View, Gold Canyon, Badwater Flats, and many more. With one day in Death Valley National Park, you’ll have the chance to explore some of the best spots and still have time for doing some self-guided sightseeing!
I’ll be sharing a complete itinerary for spending one day in Death Valley National Park to make sure you see everything this amazing National Park has to offer.
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How do I use the 1 Day Itinerary for Death Valley National Park?
This One Day in Death Valley National Park itinerary is meant to serve as a guide for exploring some of the best viewpoints within the park. If you only have one day to explore, you most likely won’t have the time to familiarize yourself with every single pull-off and hike in the park.
I’ll do the hard work for you and provide an easy-to-follow guide to see the best of Death Valley!
If you have extra time to visit the park, I will list some notable mentions, so you can go explore other places within the area.
If you have less than one day, you can always skip spots that you aren’t interested in and only visit some of the highlighted destinations.
However you choose to use this One Day in Death Valley itinerary, make sure to comment if it provided any help, or leave any questions that you may have for your next adventure!
Quick Summary of Destinations
- Ubehebe Crater
- Scott’s Castle
- Harmony Borax Works
- Devils Golf Course
- Badwater Basin
- Golden Canyon Trail
- Dante’s View
Morning: Ubehebe’s Crater and Scotty’s Castle
Ubehebe’s Crater
Location: North end of Park near Grapevine Canyon
Time Spent Here: One hour
Hours: Open year-round
Rim of the Ubehebe Crater
Start the morning by driving up to Ubehebe’s Crater. I recommend starting the day early, particularly around sunrise to maximize your time within the park.
To get there, head north on Scotty’s Castle Road for around 45 minutes until reaching the crater at the end.
This crater is 600 feet deep and more than half a mile across. It originated from a steam and gas explosion from magma rising up from deep in the Earth. The explosion from steam pressure underground created Ubehebe’s Crater almost 2,100 years ago.
The best way to view it is by taking the loop hike all the way around the crater. It is a 1.8-mile hike with around 400 feet of elevation gain and will take around one hour to complete.
If you are daring, you can also walk down to the center of the crater, but be prepared for a steep white back up to the top!
Learn More: For more California National Parks, check out my Epic Tioga Road Yosemite Day Trip: Your Complete Guide
Scotty’s Castle
Location: 8 miles from Ubehebe’s Crater
Time Spent Here: 30 minutes
Hours: Open year-round (Weather permitting)
After taking the time to admire Ubehebe’s Crater, drive a few miles down the road and head to Scotty’s Castle.
To get there, head back down Scotty’s Castle Road and take a left toward Grapevine Canyon. Scotty’s castle is located 3 miles down this road.
The history of this castle originates from Albert Mussey Johnson and Walter Scott, also known as “Death Valley Scotty”.
The legacy of the castle was that Scotty built it on top of a secret gold mine that funded the lavish residence.
After admiring it from the outside, visit the museum and take a walk to the power house with generators and water wheels!
Current closure: As of 2025, the Scotty’s Castle area is closed until further known because of a flood. Access to the road from Grapevine Canyon is closed.
Mid-Day: Harmony Borax Works, Devil’s Golf Course, Badwater Basin
Harmony Borax Works
Location: Along Highway 190 near Furnace Creek
Time Spent Here: 30 minutes
Hours: Open year-round
Old wagon at Harmony Borax Works
Once you finish admiring the beauty of Scotty’s Castle, head down Scotty’s Castle Road toward Harmony Borax Works.
This drive requires you to turn back onto Highway 190 and will take around 45 minutes to get to. Make sure to relax and enjoy the scenery along the way.
To begin this stop, park in the designated parking area and walk the Interpretive trail toward the exhibits seen up ahead on the trail.
During the trail, the signs along the way depict and describe the fascinating history of this old factory that used to operate in Death Valley National Park.
The exhibits feature wagon carts used to carry Borax as well as an old Borax processing machine.
Learn More: For more National Park Guides, check out 6 Totally Amazing Things to do in Zion National Park
Devil’s Golf Course
Location: off Highway 190 near Furnace Creek near Badwater Basin
Time Spent Here: 20 minutes
Hours: Open year-round
Carefully making my way across the spiky rocks in Devil’s Golf Course
Down the road from Harmony Borax Works will be the intersection For visiting Devil’s Golf Course. After passing Furnace Creek, take a right off Highway 190 and head around 20 miles south toward Badwater Basin. On the left will be the sign for Devil’s golf course.
Here you’ll be able to see the unique salt formations along the Badwater basin. It is a large area of rock, eroded by wind and rain into unique spires.
The area received its name After a 1934 Death Valley guidebook said “Only the devil could play golf” on this type of terrain.
Pro Tip: The only way to access Devil’s Golf Course is by driving down an unpaved gravel Road For about one to 2 miles. I was able to complete this drive just fine in a Honda Civic, which is about the exact opposite of an off-road vehicle. Just note that the road may be bumpy and contain large pieces of loose gravel. If you don’t feel like taking your vehicle down this road, head south to Badwater Basin, where you can view the salt flats from a more accessible point.
Badwater Basin
Location: Just south of Devils golf course
Time Spent Here: 30 minutes
Hours: Open year-round
Looking across the infinite landscape of the Salt Flats!
After visiting Devil’s Golf Course, make your way to Badwater Basin. Further down the road, around 8 miles south of Devil’s Golf Course Is the pull-off to Badwater.
Here you’ll be able to step onto the salt flats, which are much smoother than the previous stop. If you want, you can hike as far as the eye can see into the valley.
The salt flats are a unique part of Death Valley National Park and create a very stunning view when seen among the surrounding tall peaks.
There are also restrooms located at this stop in case anyone needs a bathroom break.
Artists Drive
Location: Just north of Devils golf course
Time Spent Here: One hour
Hours: Open year-round
Hiking up to see Artists Palette. So many vibrant colors!
To get to Artists Drive, head back toward Highway 190 and drive around 11 miles north until reaching the pull-off on the right.
Unlike Badwater and Devil’s Golf Courses, Artist’s Drive is a one-way scenic loop that takes you along a winding road right next to colorful mounds of oxidized minerals.
Because of the beauty and the vibrant colors given by these rocks, Artists Drive is one of the most photographed places in Death Valley National Park.
Make sure to park and hike toward Artist’s Palette to get up close and personal with these colorful rocks!
Afternoon: Golden Canyon Trail, Dante’s View
Golden Canyon Trail
Location: North of Artist’s Drive
Time Spent Here: 2 to 3 hours
Hours: Open year-round
Gorgeous views at the end of the Golden Canyon Trail
Next, Head around 4 miles north down the road to Golden Canyon Trail. This hike is definitely one you don’t want to miss!
The hike is a 2.9-mile out-and-back trail and is considered a moderate or challenging route. It usually takes around one and a half hours to complete.
Also, this hike is a very popular one, so be prepared to see many other people hiking this trail.
If hiking in the summer, I recommend saving this trail until later in the afternoon, as there isn’t much shade on the trail. In the winter, this trail can be high at all times of day.
Make sure to hike straight back toward the red, sandstone-looking rocks until reaching a small cave-like area. Make your way through the narrow inlet until you reach a steep hill that will take you to the viewpoint for this trail.
Learn More: For more National Park content, check out 13 Breathtaking Stops in Bryce Canyon: Complete National Park Guide
Sunset at Dante’s View
Location: Off Highway 190 toward the east boundary of the park
Time Spent Here: One hour (sunset)
Hours: open year-round
Overlooking Dante’s View, One Day in Death Valley National Park
Finally, the last stop of the day. Luckily, Dante’s view can be accessed just by driving.
To get there, drive back to the highway from Golden Canyon until reaching the intersection for Highway 190.
Take a right and head 10 miles down the highway until reaching The turn for Dante’s view. The sign will be on the right-hand side and the drive to the viewpoint will be an 8-mile uphill road.
Give yourself at least 45 minutes to get from Golden Canyon to Dantes view to ensure you see the full sunset.
Dante’s View overlooks the Badwater Basin and is directly adjacent to Wildrose, Rogers, Bennett, and Telescope Peak, which are some of the highest in the park.
Dante was one of my absolute favorite places in the park and this is a must-visit for anyone coming to Death Valley National Park.
Pro Tip: For the best viewpoint, hike about five minutes up the mountain just next to the parking area to reach a natural overlook for an even better view! Remember to always treat the park with care and follow the Leave No Trace Principle.
Notable Mentions
Mosaic Canyon
Located near Stovepipe Wells Village along Highway 190, the Mosiac Canyon Trail is a moderately challenging hike that gives access to tight slot canyons and the beautiful colors of the Mosaic Canyon.
Be aware that the drive to the trailhead involves unpaved roads, so make sure you have an off-road vehicle to access this site.
Zabriskie Point
Down the road from Dante’s view is Zabriskie Point, which is another very popular spot for sunset. This point is closer to the main road and offers easier access to sunset and gorgeous views of Badwater Basin and the surrounding peaks of Death Valley.
More Information
Where to Eat Near Death Valley National Park
If you find yourself hungry during your one day in Death Valley National Park, check out these places to stop and grab a bite for lunch or dinner:
- The Inn at Death Valley Dining Room (Furnace Creek) – Fine dining
- The 1849 Buffet (Furnace Creek) – American buffet
- Badwater Saloon (Furnace Creek) – Burgers and sandwiches
- Panamint Springs Resort Restaurant (Panamint Springs) – Pizza and burgers
- Timbisha Shoshone Village Frybread Stand (Near Furnace Creek) – Frybread tacos and desserts
Where to Stay Near Death Valley National Park?
Death Valley authors a host of places to stay, catering to each person’s budget and taste. Here are a couple of options, places to stay in or near Death Valley to make the most of your experience:
- he Inn at Death Valley (Furnace Creek) – Luxury resort
- The Ranch at Death Valley (Furnace Creek) – Family-friendly accommodations
- Panamint Springs Resort (Panamint Springs) – Rustic lodging
- Stovepipe Wells Village Hotel (Stovepipe Wells) – Comfortable desert hotel
- Amargosa Opera House and Hotel (Death Valley Junction) – Historic and unique stay
Best Time to go to Death Valley National Park
Overall, the best time to visit Death Valley National Park is in the winter. Daytime temperatures are pleasant, and crowds aren’t too packed, And rainfall is typically very rare. However, here is some general information for visiting the property during each time of year:
Summer
Weather:
- Daytime: 110°F–125°F (43°C–52°C)
- Nighttime: 85°F–95°F (29°C–35°C)
- Extremely dry with occasional thunderstorms.
Pros:
- Unique experience of Death Valley’s legendary heat.
- Stargazing opportunities due to clear night skies.
Cons:
- Dangerous heat; hiking is strongly discouraged.
- Limited outdoor activities.
Advice:
- Stay hydrated and avoid outdoor activities from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Focus on indoor activities or short walks near visitor centers.
- Bring extra water and cooling gear if driving through remote areas.
Fall
Weather:
- Daytime: 85°F–110°F (29°C–43°C) in early fall, dropping to 65°F–85°F (18°C–29°C) by November.
- Nighttime: 55°F–70°F (13°C–21°C).
Pros:
- Warm, but less extreme than summer.
- Fewer crowds compared to spring.
Cons:
- Wildflowers and waterfalls are scarce.
Advice:
- Great for photography, especially around sunset.
- Visit areas like Badwater Basin and Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes in the morning or late afternoon to avoid heat.
Winter
Weather:
- Daytime: 60°F–75°F (16°C–24°C)
- Nighttime: 40°F–50°F (4°C–10°C), occasionally freezing
- Rare rainfall, typically under 1 inch
Pros:
- Mild temperatures are ideal for hiking and exploring.
- Less crowded compared to spring.
Cons:
- Short daylight hours.
- Limited services during the holidays.
Advice:
- Bring layers for cold mornings and evenings.
- Perfect for longer hikes like Golden Canyon or Telescope Peak.
Spring
Weather:
- Daytime: 75°F–100°F (24°C–38°C)
- Nighttime: 50°F–65°F (10°C–18°C)
- Wildflower season (if rainfall was adequate).
Pros:
- Stunning wildflower blooms (March–early April, depending on rainfall).
- Popular season for visitors due to mild temperatures.
Cons:
- Crowds peak in March and April.
Advice:
- Arrive early for parking and trail access.
- Bring sun protection, as UV levels can be intense.
Getting to Death Valley National Park
Getting to Death Valley National Park is relatively straightforward, with the closest major airports being Las Vegas, Nevada (about 120 miles or 2 hours away), Los Angeles, California (about 230 miles or 4.5–5 hours away), and Bishop Airport in California, a smaller regional airport roughly 2 hours from the park’s western side.
From Las Vegas, you can take US-95 North to NV-373 South or NV-160 West to reach the eastern entrances. From Los Angeles, use I-15 north to CA-127 or CA-14 north to US-395.
Note that there is no public transportation directly to Death Valley, so renting a car or joining a guided tour from Las Vegas is necessary.
What is The Best Entrance to Death Valley National Park
During my trip to Death Valley, I entered from the western side of the park near Panamint Springs and passed Emigrant Campground and Stovepipe Wells Village. However, Death Valley is a popular park and has access from almost every direction. Here is some more information on each park entrance:
The Furnace Creek Entrance on the east side is accessible via NV-160 to Death Valley Junction and CA-190, offering proximity to popular attractions like Furnace Creek Visitor Center, Badwater Basin, and Zabriskie Point. It’s ideal for visitors coming from Las Vegas or southern Nevada.
The Beatty Entrance, also on the east side, is reached via NV-374 from Beatty, Nevada, and provides access to spots like Rhyolite Ghost Town, Titus Canyon, and Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, making it a convenient option for travelers from Nevada or eastern California.
The Stovepipe Wells Entrance, located on the northwest side, can be accessed from Lone Pine, California, by taking US-395 south to CA-190 east. Nearby highlights include Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Mosaic Canyon, and Stovepipe Wells Village, making it suitable for visitors arriving from the Sierra Nevada or Yosemite.
Lastly, the Panamint Springs Entrance on the western side provides access to the park for travelers from western California or the Central Valley. Each entrance offers unique nearby attractions and caters to travelers from different regions, making planning your visit flexible and exciting.
What is the best airport for Death Valley National Park?
The best airport for accessing Death Valley National Park is Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas, Nevada. It is the closest major airport to the park, located approximately 120 miles (2 hours) from the eastern entrances, such as Furnace Creek.
Las Vegas offers the most convenient access due to its proximity, well-connected flights, and options for car rentals or guided tours to the park.
For travelers coming from farther west, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is another option, but it is about 230 miles (4.5–5 hours) from the park, making it less convenient than Las Vegas.
Smaller regional airports, like Bishop Airport (BIH) in California, can be used by travelers from the Sierra Nevada area, but they lack the range of flight options available at Las Vegas. For most visitors, Las Vegas is the best choice for convenience, time efficiency, and accessibility to Death Valley National Park.
How much is the Entry Fee for Death Valley National Park?
- Private Vehicle: $30 (valid for 7 days)
- Motorcycle: $25 (valid for 7 days)
- Individual (bicyclist or on foot): $15 (valid for 7 days)
- Annual Pass for Death Valley: $55
The park is open 24 hours a day, every day. The visitor center is open daily except for major holidays. Check the NPS website for current information.
Pro Tip: make sure to grab the America the Beautiful Pass if visiting other national parks in Utah. This pass can be bought for $80 and acts as a valid entry pass to any National Park for one year.
Do I need A Reservation to enter Death Valley National Park?
No, you do not need a reservation to enter Death Valley National Park. Visitors can enter the park at any time, as it is open 24/7 year-round. However, an entrance fee is required, which can be paid at self-pay stations, visitor centers, or online through the National Park Service website.