Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park has more than 3.3 million acres of spectacular desert scenery, interesting and rare desert wildlife, complex geology, undisturbed wilderness, and sites of historical and cultural interest. Bounded on the west by 11,049 foot Telescope Peak and on the east by 5,475 foot Dante's View, Badwater is the lowest point (-282 feet) in the western hemisphere.

Death Valley National Park
P.O. Box 579
Death Valley, CA 92328
(760) 786-3200 - Visitor Information
(760) 786-3241 - Commercial Permits

By Plane
There is a small public airport at Furnace Creek. Fuel is available by calling the Furnace Creek Chevron Station at 786-2343.

By Car
Death Valley National Park is transected from east to west by California Highway 190. On the east in Nevada, U.S. Route 95 parallels the park from north to south with connecting highways at Scotty's Junction (State Route 267), Beatty (State Route 374), and Lathrop Wells (State Route 373). South of the park, Interstate 15 passes through Baker, California on its way from Los Angeles to Las Vegas. State Route 127 travels north from Baker to Shoshone and Death Valley Junction with connections to the park on State Route 178 from Shoshone and connection with California Highway 190 at Death Valley Junction.

By Plane
At this time, there is no public transportation available to Death Valley National Park.

Getting Around
California Highway 190, the Badwater Road, The Scotty's Castle Road, and paved roads to Dante's View and Wildrose provide access to the major scenic viewpoints and historic points of interest. More than 350 miles of unpaved and 4-wheel drive roads provide access to wilderness hiking, camping, and historical sites.

There are hiking trails of varying lengths and difficulties, but most backcountry areas are accessible only by crosscountry hiking. There are literally thousands of hiking possibilities.

Death Valley is generally sunny, dry, and clear throughout the year. The winters are mild with occasional winter storms, but summers are extrenely hot and dry. Summer high temperatures commonly run above 120 degrees fahrenheit. Comfortable clothing providing sun protection and a broad brimmed hat are recommended in summer. Winter requires warmer clothing and light to medium jackets. Sturdy walking shoes are important year round.

Here are some of the activities that are offered at Mount Rainier National Park.

• Auto Touring
• Biking
• Camping
• Educational Programs
• Hiking
• Horseback Riding
• Swimming
• Wilderness Area
• Wildlife Viewing
• Backpacking
• Bird Watching
• Nature Walks
• Stargazing

Recommended Activities
Sightseeing by personal auto, 4-wheel drive, bicycle, mountain bike (established roadways only), hiking, and camping.

Join a ranger November through April for a talk, walk, guided hike, or evening program.


Join a ranger for a costumed living history tour (fee) of the historic Death Valley Scotty's Castle.

Click on image to enlarge.