Death Valley National Park, located in eastern California and parts of Nevada, is a land of extreme contrasts and breathtaking landscapes. Known for being the hottest, driest, and lowest point in North America, it is a place of otherworldly beauty, where vast salt flats, towering sand dunes, rugged mountains, and colorful canyons create an unforgettable desert experience.
The top attractions in Death Valley
- Dante’s View – A breathtaking 5,476-foot-high overlook providing sweeping views of the valley.
- Zabriskie Point – A must-see viewpoint, offering panoramic vistas of Death Valley’s rolling badlands.
- Badwater Basin – Walk across the vast salt flats at the lowest point in North America.
- Artist’s Palette – A unique area with vibrant, multi-colored hills created by mineral deposits.
- Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes – Stunning golden dunes perfect for photography, hiking, and sunrise/sunset views.
We started at the top (Dante’s View) and then headed into the valley. We were not prepared for how cold it was on top, approx 40f, be prepared for temperatures of all ranges in the park!
Found this unique painted rock at the top, took a picture and left it. Unsure if there is a story behind it, but wanted capture the moment.
Next, we visited Zabriskie Point, and as someone originally from South Dakota, the badlands here strongly reminded me of the striking landscapes back home. The rugged terrain and unique rock formations felt familiar, yet still awe-inspiring in their own way.
Arriving at Badwater Basin is a sureal experience. Being 282 ft below sea level is something else. Right next to the parking lot, is the spring-fed pool, which is where it gets its name. As you can tell, it contains a large amount of salt.
Next we walked around the salt flats also located at Badwater Basin.
Our last stop in the park was the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. This was our first time seeing sand dunes, and we couldn’t resist the urge to try sand sledding. Armed with a couple of empty pizza boxes, we gave it a go for some added excitement— and, surprisingly, it actually kind of worked!
Death Valley is a land of extremes, but beyond its harsh conditions lies a landscape full of incredible beauty and unique geological wonders. Whether you’re looking for epic hikes, surreal landscapes, or just a place to marvel at nature’s raw power, Death Valley is an unforgettable destination.
Would you visit this extraordinary desert?