Death Valley
Stop 23 of 51 on the loop. Stay in Furnace Creek CA, give it 2 nights, and plan the day around Artists Drive / Badwater.
- State
- CA
- Stay in
- Furnace Creek CA
- Nights on this route
- 2
- Month on this route
- May
- Don't miss
- Artists Drive / Badwater
- Getting here
- 362 mi from Baker NV, about 7 h 14 min.
- Next stop
- Joshua Tree, 237 mi, about 5 h 40 min.
About the Park
In this below-sea-level basin, steady drought and record summer heat make Death Valley a land of extremes. Yet, each extreme has a striking contrast. Towering peaks are frosted with winter snow. Rare rainstorms bring vast fields of wildflowers. Lush oases harbor tiny fish and refuge for wildlife and humans. Despite its morbid name, a great diversity of life thrives in Death Valley.
Description from the National Park Service.
Where to Stay
On this route you sleep in Furnace Creek CA. Gateway towns have more lodging, groceries and fuel than the park itself. If you want an in-park lodge instead, the busiest parks book up as early as 13 months out.
Entrance Fees
- $30 Private Vehicle
- $25 Motorcycle
- $15 Per person (walk or bike in)
An $80 America the Beautiful annual pass covers entry at every national park; on a trip like this it pays for itself after three parks. Fees from the NPS, checked 2026-10-18.
Nearby Parks
- Sequoia about 113 mi as the crow flies
- Kings Canyon about 118 mi as the crow flies
- Joshua Tree about 167 mi as the crow flies
Official site: https://www.nps.gov/deva/. Route data checked 2026-10-19.