Attraction Guide: Death Valley National Park, Death Valley National Park, California, United States

Death Valley National Park Guide

Experience Extremes: Death Valley National Park Guide

Welcome to Death Valley National Park, a land of extremes and stark beauty. Prepare to be amazed by the lowest, driest, and hottest national park in the United States. From towering sand dunes to colorful canyons and expansive salt flats, Death Valley offers a unique and unforgettable landscape. Despite its harsh name, the park teems with life, showcasing resilient plants and animals adapted to survive in this challenging environment. Death Valley's history is rich and varied. Indigenous peoples, including the Timbisha Shoshone, have called this area home for thousands of years. In the mid-19th century, the area gained notoriety during the California Gold Rush when a group of pioneers, lost and desperate, endured immense hardship while crossing the valley, giving it its ominous name. Later, borax mining became a significant industry, leaving behind remnants of historic operations like the Harmony Borax Works. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities in Death Valley. Hike through canyons like Golden Canyon and Mosaic Canyon, marvel at the panoramic views from Dante's View, or explore the otherworldly landscape of Zabriskie Point. During cooler months, stargazing is exceptional due to the park's dark skies. Be sure to visit the Furnace Creek Visitor Center for information on ranger-led programs, safety tips, and current conditions. While there isn't a specific culinary tradition unique to Death Valley itself, nearby towns offer dining options. Pack plenty of water and snacks, especially during the hotter months.