Death Valley's extremes make it one of the best stargazing destinations in the country, and its ghost towns and hidden canyons offer a quieter side of the park beyond the main scenic drives. Here's what else to see, and how to plan around the heat.
Some of the Darkest Skies in America
Death Valley is a certified International Dark Sky Park, and on a clear moonless night the Milky Way is visible in a way it simply isn't near any major city — bring a star chart or app and plan to spend at least one evening looking up.
Ghost Towns and Mining History
Rhyolite, just outside the park's eastern edge, is one of the best-preserved ghost towns in the Southwest, a boomtown that collapsed almost as fast as it grew after a gold rush in the early 1900s. The Harmony Borax Works, inside the park itself, tells the story of the 20-mule teams that once hauled borax out of the valley.
When to Go
Winter (November through March) is by far the safest and most comfortable time to visit, with pleasant daytime temperatures — summer highs regularly exceed 120°F and hiking is genuinely dangerous outside of early morning hours. Browse Death Valley tours and experiences below to plan your trip.
Pack for the Extremes
Whatever the season, extra water and layers for cold desert nights matter. The VacationGrabs Big Outdoor Leather Backpack has the room for both.
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