Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Why Go?
The can't-miss photo op is in front of the sign for Badwater Basin, the lowest point in
North America (282ft below sea level). Panoramas are even more impressive from the
Artists Drive, a one-way scenic loop drive, and Zabriskie Point and Dante's View, both
east of Furnace Creek. Take time to get out of the car to hike across salt flats and over sand
dunes, up narrow slot canyons, atop extinct volcanic craters and into fantastically eroded
badlands.
When to Go
February through April is the most popular time to visit for cooler temperatures and wild-
flower blooms. When temperatures peak over 120ºF (49ºC) in summer, Death Valley at-
tracts heat-seeking masochists, but that heat can be harmful to your health - not to mention
your car's engine.
The Route
Lonely highways crisscross the park. To minimize doubling back, start in the south near
Badwater Basin, then drive north to Furnace Creek, turn west to Stovepipe Wells and
Panamint Springs, make a side trip up Emigrant and Wildrose Canyons, and finally end up
north by Scotty's Castle.
Best Detour
Just east of the park across the Nevada state line via Hwy 374, the abandoned boomtown
of Rhyolite was the queen of Death Valley's mines during its heyday. Next door is the idio-
syncratic Goldwell Open Air Museum ( MAP GOOGLE MAP ; www.goldwellmuseum.org ; off
Hwy 374;
24hr) of trippy outdoor art.
Time & Mileage
Three to four days, 400 miles
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