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Death Valley is an extreme, beautiful desert environment—prepare for heat, limited services, and remote travel. Plan water, vehicle readiness, timing, and safety before you go.
Visa & Entry Requirements
- No special visa for U.S. entry beyond standard U.S. immigration rules. International travelers need the appropriate U.S. visa/ESTA.
- No park-specific visa or permit is required for general day visits.
- Some activities require permits: backcountry camping, commercial filming, special events, and certain research projects. Obtain permits from National Park Service (NPS) in advance.
Best Time to Visit
- Fall through spring (October–April) is ideal: mild temperatures (50s–70s°F / 10–25°C).
- Summer (May–September) is extremely hot; daytime highs often exceed 115–120°F (46–49°C). Visit only with serious precautions or avoid summer entirely.
- Sunrise and sunset offer best light and cooler temps; winter can be chilly at night and occasional rain/fog.
Safety Tips
- Carry at least 1 gallon (4 liters) of water per person per day; more if hiking.
- Inform someone of your route and expected return. Cell coverage is spotty—don’t rely on phone service.
- Bring extra food, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), and layers for temperature swings.
- Check road conditions before driving; many roads are unpaved and can be closed after storms.
- Avoid hiking in the heat; start hikes before sunrise. Know your limits and turn back early if overheating or dizzy.
- Watch for flash floods in narrow canyons during storms.
- Never leave people or pets in parked cars in hot conditions.
- Carry a basic vehicle emergency kit, spare tire, coolant, and plenty of fuel—gas stations are limited.
Local Customs & Park Etiquette
- Respect fragile desert ecosystems: stay on established trails and roads. Do not collect rocks, plants, or artifacts.
- Leave no trace: pack out all trash.
- Observe wildlife from a distance and do not feed animals.
- Dogs are allowed in some areas but must be leashed and are not permitted on most trails.
Currency & Payments
- Entrance fee: the park charges a per-vehicle or per-person fee; check current rates on NPS website.
- Major towns (Furnace Creek area, Stovepipe Wells, Beatty) have limited services—credit cards accepted at some locations, but carry cash for smaller vendors and in case card acceptance is limited.
Transportation & Access
- Nearest major airports: Las Vegas (2–2.5 hours), and smaller regional airports in Bakersfield or Ridgecrest.
- Car is essential—no public transit inside the park. 4WD recommended for unpaved routes; many scenic locations are accessible by paved roads but remote drives can be long.
- Fill up fuel before entering the park; gas stations are sparse and more expensive.
- Drive slowly to avoid wildlife and washboard roads; carry maps—GPS can be unreliable.
Must-Know Tips & Highlights
- Don’t miss: Badwater Basin (lowest point in North America), Zabriskie Point, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Dante’s View, Artist’s Drive/Palette, Golden Canyon, and Scotty’s Castle area (check current access status).
- Photography: golden hour light is spectacular; tripod and neutral-density filters helpful for long exposures on dunes and salt flats.
- Camping: established campgrounds exist; some require reservations. Dispersed or backcountry camping follows NPS rules—obtain permits if needed.
- Hot springs and off-road trails: research access and safety; many are remote and changing.
- Plan conservatively: distances in the park are large—allow extra time for stops and unexpected delays.
Final Practical Checklist
- Water (1+ gallon per person per day), electrolyte drinks
- Sun protection: hat, SPF 30+, sunglasses
- Sturdy shoes, layers for temperature swings
- Full gas tank, spare tire, vehicle emergency kit
- Paper map, physical permits if required
- Food, first-aid kit, flashlight/headlamp
- Notify someone of itinerary and expected return
Enjoy the unique landscapes but treat Death Valley with respect—prepare thoroughly and prioritize safety.