15 EPIC Hikes in Death Valley National Park
Infamous for its extreme conditions, hiking in Death Valley National Park isn’t for the weak.
With over 100 miles of trails in Death Valley National Park, you’ll witness some of the most unique and breathtaking scenery in the country.
Here are the most worthwhile hikes!
Table of Contents
1. Artist’s Palette Trail
Artist’s Palette Trail is short but spectacular. The hills are splashed with colors like an artist’s palette. Formed by oxidation, the hues are especially vibrant at sunrise and sunset.
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Visit during golden hour to see the colors at their most vivid.
Don’t take your rigs down this road! It’s for vehicles under 25ft only.
2. Badwater Basin Salt Flats Trail
Badwater Basin is the lowest point in North America, sitting 282 feet below sea level. You can check out the sea level sign on the mountain for a perspective on just how low you are!
The trail takes you across a vast expanse of salt flats that look like a snowy desert.
3. Harmony Borax Works Trail
Step back into the 1880s on the Harmony Borax Works Trail.
Check out the old wagons and mining equipment used to haul borax across the desert. It’s a quick, fun history lesson!
4. Golden Canyon Trail
The Golden Canyon Trail is famous for its colorful canyon walls and dramatic landscapes.
It’s a moderately challenging hike with plenty of photo opps. The trail takes you through narrow sections and up to the Red Cathedral formation.
5. Twenty Mule Team Canyon Trail
The Twenty Mule Team Canyon Trail is a less crowded spot with striking badlands. Skip the crowds at Zabriskie Point and come here instead for some peace and quiet.
Hike further into the canyon to discover hidden mine tunnels and slot canyons.
6. Telescope Peak Trail
At 11,049 feet, Telescope Peak offers sweeping views of the Badwater Basin and Panamint Valley. It’s a tough hike, but the breathtaking views are the perfect reward.
7. Zabriskie Point Trail
Zabriskie Point offers one of the best views in the park. The trail is short but steep, leading to stunning vistas of the badlands and beyond. It’s a photographer’s dream spot.
The further you walk in, the less crowds there are. The trailhead is sometimes insanely busy.
8. Mosaic Canyon Trail
Mosaic Canyon Trail features smooth, polished marble walls and unique rock formations.
The narrow sections of the canyon provide a fun and slightly challenging experience for hikers. It’s a great place to explore the geological wonders of Death Valley.
Wear sturdy shoes with good grip as the polished marble can be slippery.
9. Dante’s View Trail
Dante’s View gives you a bird’s-eye view of the entire Death Valley Basin! Hike southwest from the viewpoint for even better panoramas.
This is a top spot for sunrises and sunsets or during a full moon to see the salt flats glow eerily in the moonlight.
10. Darwin Falls Trail
Darwin Falls is a lush oasis in the desert, with a waterfall cascading down 18 feet. The trail crosses streams and rocky areas, so be prepared to get your feet wet!
11. Natural Bridge Trail
Continue reading BEST HIKES IN DEATH VALLEY for the rest!!
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