Visiting Death Valley National Park - The Shadrian Chronicles

Located in eastern California, only a couple hours from Las Vegas, Death Valley National Park offers some very unique experiences.

It can get seriously hot in Death Valley

When to go?

Any season is a good time to visit the park. Each season has its own unique features or benefits, however be aware, summer is unbelievably hot.

Spring season can bring large wildflower blooms after rains. Winter you can find relatively cool days and snow capped mountains. Fall brings lower numbers of visitors and great weather for hiking and camping.

How do you get to the park?

Death Valley National Park is located on the easter edge of California. The easiest way to get to the park is from Las Vegas. The trip from Las Vegas is around 2 hours long along mostly through tiny towns and open desert areas.

The other option is to travel from Los Angeles. The trip from LA is around four hours to the park, but the drive goes through some more scenic areas and a lot more towns with gas stations.

Where to stay in and around the park?

There are a number of accommodations within the park, from first class resort lodging to old fashion tent camping. If you plan to camp, just make sure you have plenty of water and shade, as it can get really, really, really hot in death valley.

For the lodging options, check out the National Park site’s various lodges here. For a list of campground options click here.

There are also a few restaurants in the park. They offer basic meals, breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Some have camp supplies as well, so you can grab a few items for your camping trip as well.

Things to Do and See in the Park

Below is a list of places to stop, explore, or drive through.

Badwater Basin – This is probably the most popular spot in all of Death Valley. The basin is the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level. You can see the low point from your car, or if you are feeling adventurous, walk out into the basin.
Artists Drive – This is a scenic drive that goes through a very colorful part of the park. The drive is about 9 miles long and goes one way. The drive is a good option after visiting Badwater Basin.
Zabriskie Point – This is a great point for sunrise pictures. The point has some great views of the park.
Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes – Mountains of sand, dunes go for a good distance. Be careful in the summer the sand gets REALLY hot.
Dantes View – From the viewpoint you get the best views of all of Death Valley. You can drive up to the point, no hiking is necessary.
Old Mines and Kilns – There are a few old mines and old kilns still standing within the park. The sites are available for viewing, but do not climb or go inside any of the mines.