Popular types of activities in Death Valley National Park

Updated April 26th, 2022
Death Valley
Image credit: fyletto / 123rf

Death Valley National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the United States. The park is known for its beautiful scenery, its hiking and camping opportunities, and its wide range of tourist activities.

The park is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. The valley itself is full of unique rock formations, canyons, and desert landscapes. There are also plenty of opportunities for hiking and camping in the park.

In addition to its natural beauty, Death Valley National Park is also known for its wide range of tourist activities. There are several different visitor centers in the park, as well as a number of ranger-led programs. There are also a number of different tours that visitors can take, including jeep tours, horseback tours, and even hot air balloon tours.

Whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy the outdoors or a place to learn more about the natural world, Death Valley National Park is a great choice. There’s something for everyone in this unique and beautiful place.

1. Hiking

The high desert landscape in and around Death Valley National Park is rugged and unforgiving. The temperatures can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) during the summer months, and the air can be dusty and dry. The National Park Service recommends bringing plenty of water, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat. The trails in the park are often narrow and steep, and they can be quite demanding on your energy and stamina.

2. Camping

Death Valley National Park is a very hot and dry place. Make sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen. The temperatures can get as high as 130 degrees Fahrenheit. The best time to visit is during the fall, when the temperatures are cooler.

3. Backpacking

Death Valley National Park is a sprawling desert park located in the eastern part of California. The park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including the infamous Death Valley Scotty dog. The park is also known for its hot, dry conditions, which can make for a challenging backpacking trip. Expect to pack heavy along with plenty of water and snacks to keep you going during long days of hiking. Be prepared for brutally hot temperatures and bone-dry conditions.

4. Rock climbing

There are dozens of cliffs and boulders to explore in and around Death Valley National Park. The park is full of varied and challenging climbs, with cliffs ranging from short, easy climbs up to 5,000 feet, to long, difficult climbs up to 12,000 feet. The climbing can be very hot and strenuous, so be prepared for long hours of hiking and climbing.

5. Mountain biking

Mountain biking in Death Valley National Park is a great way to experience the park's stunning scenery and unrivaled wilderness. You'll ride through acres of sand and gravel deserts, across rushing streams and over impassable cliffs, all while surrounded by the towering peaks of the park's iconic mountains. Most trails in the park are single track, which means you'll have to use your own skills and judgement to stay safe. Be prepared for steep climbs and fast descents, and always be aware of your surroundings. If you're looking for a challenging mountain biking experience, Death Valley National Park is the perfect place to go.

6. Road biking

Road biking in or near Death Valley National Park can be very rewarding, but it is also very challenging. The desert environment is hot and dry, making it difficult to maintain good hydration and avoid getting lost. The terrain can be rough and rocky, making it difficult to ride. The park is also home to some of the most dangerous animals in the United States, so cyclists must be vigilant at all times.

7. Wildlife watching

Wildlife watching in Death Valley National Park can be a very rewarding experience, providing opportunities to see a wide variety of animals in their natural habitat. Visitors can expect to see many animals such as bighorn sheep, desert bighorn sheep, golden eagles, pronghorn antelope, desert tortoise, and numerous other birds, such as the Joshua Tree woodpecker, the Great Basin sparrow, and the golden eagle.

8. Scenic drives

The roads in and around Death Valley National Park are very winding and scenic. You will travel through beautiful desert landscapes and may see wildflowers or other wildlife. The roads can be very hot and dusty, so be sure to drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen.

9. Photography

The landscape in and near Death Valley National Park is a vast, open desertscape with rocky outcroppings and deep canyons. The air is hot and dry, and the sun can be incredibly intense. This makes for a challenging environment for photography, as the light can be harsh and the colors can be very intense.

10. Star gazing

If you are looking to star gaze in Death Valley National Park, you can expect to see a variety of stars and planets. The sky will be clear and you will be able to see many of the constellations and planets.