Death Valley National Park is a land of extremes and remarkable natural wonders. Here, we'll explore some of the best hikes that will immerse you in the park's unique landscapes and offer unforgettable experiences.
From the colorful badlands of Golden Canyon to the summit of Telescope Peak and the surreal, vast beauty of Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, each hike is an opportunity to discover the rugged beauty of Death Valley.
1. Zabriskie Point to Golden Canyon Loop
Image from Flickr by Thank You (23 Millions+) views
- Length: 6.4 miles loop
- Difficulty: Moderate
This loop takes you through the vibrant and colorful badlands of Golden Canyon, starting from the stunning Zabriskie Point viewpoint. See stunning views of the unique geological formations and the surrounding desert landscape.
2. Telescope Peak
- Length: 12.2 miles out and back
- Difficulty: Strenuous
This challenging hike takes you to the summit of Telescope Peak, the highest point in Death Valley National Park at 11,043 feet. On a clear day, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the park.
3. Badwater Basin Salt Flats
- Length: Varies (exploration on the salt flats)
- Difficulty: Easy
Explore the lowest point in North America, the vast salt flats of Badwater Basin. Walk across the otherworldly salt polygon formations, capturing the unique patterns and textures with your footsteps.
4. Mosaic Canyon
Image from Flickr by Tom Hilton
- Length: 3.4 miles out and back
- Difficulty: Moderate
Journey through the narrow, polished marble walls of Mosaic Canyon, which feature intricate patterns formed by water erosion. The canyon's unique geology and smooth rock surfaces make it a captivating hike.
5. Ubehebe Crater Rim
- Length: 1.8 miles loop
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Explore the rim of the Ubehebe Crater, a massive volcanic crater formed thousands of years ago. The contrasting colors and panoramic views of the crater and surrounding desert make this hike a memorable experience.
6. Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes
Image from Flickr by Ken Lund
- Length: Varies (exploration on the sand dunes)
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Wander through the undulating sands of the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, a surreal landscape of wind-sculpted dunes. This hike offers a unique opportunity to experience the desert's ever-changing patterns and textures.
7. Titus Canyon Scenic Road
- Length: 27 miles one-way
- Difficulty: High-clearance vehicle recommended
Not a hike, but this scenic road shows off some of the best of Death Valley. Drive the rugged one-way dirt road through Titus Canyon and witness the stunning geological features, including narrow canyon walls, colorful rock formations, and abandoned mining relics.
8. Darwin Falls
Image from Flickr by David Fulmer
- Length: 2 miles out and back
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Enjoy a refreshing, lush oasis in the desert as you hike to Darwin Falls. This unique hike offers a glimpse of green vegetation and cascading waterfalls amidst the arid surrounding desert of Death Valley.
Conclusion
Death Valley National Park offers a diverse range of hiking experiences that showcase the park's unique natural wonders.
Whether you're exploring the colorful badlands of Golden Canyon, conquering the summit of Telescope Peak for breathtaking vistas, or immersing yourself in the otherworldly scenery of the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, each hike reveals the park's remarkable beauty.
These hikes provide an opportunity to connect with the ever-changing landscapes of Death Valley.
We hope that we’ve given you all the information you need to make the most of your day. Your vacation is extremely important to us so if you have any questions feel free to reach out at aloha@shakaguide.com.
For more detailed information to help you plan, check out our Death Valley National Park Itinerary and Know Before You Go article.
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