United States
Death Valley National Park
Death Valley National Park is such a unique national park. With otherworldly landscapes, extreme temperatures and a wide range of diverse activities, it’s safe to say it’s very different from any other national park. Discover the best things to do if you only have one day to explore Death Valley!
Start your day at Zabriskie Point
Since it can get very hot in Death Valley (up to 40 degrees Celsius and more!), it is recommended to start your day as early as possible. What better way to start your day than with a breathtaking sunrise? Head to Zabriskie Point for some panoramic views of otherworldly landscapes. It felt like we were on another planet, so magical! Be sure to arrive half an hour before sunrise for the best views, and for the best spot. Photographers tend to claim the best spots quite early, so make sure you arrive before they do. We promise you, it's worth getting up so early!
Your next stop requires a 20-minute drive, keep in mind that the only way to get around in Death Valley is by car.
Head to Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America
Welcome to Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America (86 m/282 ft below sea level). Here you will find countless salt flats, it’s like something you’ve never seen before. Make sure to walk around here, it is such a cool experience. You’ll literally feel the salt ‘cracking’ beneath your feet, such a special feeling! If you arrive here just after sunrise, chances are you'll have the whole place to yourself. It's a wonderful photo spot, and one of the most unique things to do in Death Valley!
Your next stop is a 40-minute drive. We can guarantee you that the drive itself is truly spectacular as well!
Hiking at Mosaic Canyon
You've already admired 2 beautiful viewpoints, now it's time for something more active! The Mosaic Canyon Trail is a fun hike with narrow canyons, marble walls and unique rock formations. The trail is about 2,3 km one way. However, after less than a kilometer you already reach the narrowest part of the canyon, which is also the most fun part. Depending on how hot it is you can choose to do the full hike or not. The first kilometer is definitely the best part, though. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, head protection and lots of water.
Your next stop is just a 5-minute drive away.
Explore Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes
Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes is a desert surrounded by mountains, this seems so out of place in this amazing park! You can explore Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes on your own, there is no defined route that you have to follow. Having this freedom is truly amazing, you can walk where you want and stay there for however long you want! Keep in mind that stepping in sand is tiring, especially since it’s uphill and downhill all the time. Bring plenty of water, it can get very hot here and there is no shade!
Drive along Artist’s Drive for your last stop of the day. Make sure to admire all the stunning sights along the way!
End your day at Artist’s Palette
Artist’s Palette is one of the most photographed spots in Death Valley, and we totally get why! It is such a unique and colorful spot. The colorful hills are formed by volcanic deposits, this is so fascinating to see! There’s a small (unguided) trail that will take you to some amazing places. So make sure to walk around here to get some of the best views, and don’t forget to take a lot of pictures!
