US - National Parks
Death Valley National Park
Read about this sandy wonder
A land of extremes and stunning contrasts, Death Valley National Park is one of the most mesmerizing destinations in the United States. Nestled in California and stretching into Nevada, this vast desert landscape is famous for its record-breaking temperatures, dramatic scenery, and unexpected pockets of life. With over a million visitors each year, Death Valley offers an unforgettable journey into one of the most unique environments on Earth.
The Harsh Beauty of the Desert
Death Valley was officially designated as a national park in 1994, protecting over 3.4 million acres of rugged terrain, salt flats, sand dunes, and rocky canyons. It holds the title for the hottest temperature ever recorded on Earth—a staggering 134°F (56.7°C) in July 1913. But beyond the heat, the park’s landscape is a breathtaking mix of colors, textures, and geological formations. The famous Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level, is a surreal expanse of cracked salt flats that stretches endlessly toward the horizon. In stark contrast, Telescope Peak rises over 11,000 feet above the desert floor, offering visitors a chance to see snow-capped mountains from the depths of the valley below.
Must-See Landmarks and Hiking Adventures
Despite its name, Death Valley is teeming with things to explore. Zabriskie Point provides one of the most iconic views in the park, with its golden-hued badlands carved by millions of years of erosion. The Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, especially stunning at sunrise and sunset, give visitors a taste of the shifting desert sands that make for a photographer’s dream. For those willing to brave the heat, hiking opportunities abound. The Golden Canyon Trail leads through narrow passageways of deep red and ochre-colored rock, culminating in breathtaking views of the valley beyond. Another must-visit is Dante’s View, perched at over 5,000 feet, where you can gaze down upon the vastness of the valley in a sweeping panorama.
Life in an Unlikely Place
Though it may seem barren, Death Valley is full of life. Spring brings a rare but breathtaking wildflower bloom, splashing the desert floor with vibrant yellows, purples, and oranges when conditions are just right. Wildlife has also adapted to this unforgiving environment—roadrunners dart across the roads, coyotes prowl in the early morning hours, and bighorn sheep navigate the rocky slopes. At night, the park transforms into one of the darkest places in the country, making it an International Dark Sky Park perfect for stargazing.
Death Valley’s extremes are what make it so fascinating—one moment, you’re standing in a landscape that feels otherworldly, and the next, you’re marveling at the resilience of life that manages to thrive despite the odds. It’s a place that reminds us of nature’s raw power and beauty, drawing adventurers back time and time again.