Day Trip from Las Vegas: Death Valley National Park & Rhyolite Ghost Town Tour
A single day takes you from Las Vegas neon into the extreme landscapes of Death Valley National Park and the gold-rush ghost town of Rhyolite. Expect dramatic viewpoints, salt flats and color-streaked badlands, paired with practical guidance to keep you cool and shooting.
The Experience
Before You Go
Beat the heat—start early
Departures shift earlier in summer; plan to be on the trail or at overlooks before mid-morning when temperatures spike.
Hydrate constantly
Carry at least 1–2 liters per person in addition to bottled water provided—electrolytes are helpful for long days in the desert.
Sturdy shoes and sun protection
Closed-toe hiking shoes handle salt flats and rocky slopes better than sandals; bring a wide-brim hat and high-SPF sunscreen.
Protect your camera gear
Wind and fine sand can damage lenses—use a protective filter, keep a microfibre cloth handy, and change lenses sparingly.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes early-morning crescent edges—quieter and more photogenic than popular viewpoints
- •The old Harmony Borax Works near Furnace Creek for intact mining machinery and interpretive signs
Wildlife
- •desert bighorn sheep
- •Kit fox
Conservation Note
Visitors should stick to marked roads and trails—cryptobiotic soil and fragile desert plants recover slowly; pack out all trash and minimize off-road driving.
The area’s modern history is shaped by borax and gold booms—Harmony Borax Works and Rhyolite grew rapidly in the early 20th century, leaving architectural ruins and mining remnants.
Photographer's Notes
- • Zabriskie Point for badlands and valley panoramas
- • Artists Drive/Palette for color-streaked hills
- • Badwater Basin salt flats for wide-angle low shots
What to Bring
Breathable sun shirtEssential
Lightweight long sleeves cut sun exposure without overheating during daytime stops.
Closed-toe hiking shoesEssential
Protect feet from sharp salt crust and rocky trail surfaces at pullouts and short hikes.
Hydration pack or water bottleEssential
Supplements provided bottled water and keeps fluids accessible on longer stops.
Wide-brim hat and sunglassesEssential
Crucial for glare reduction across salt flats and reflective badlands.
Common Questions
How long is the drive from Las Vegas?
Expect roughly 2–2.5 hours each way depending on traffic and route; total tour time is about 10–11 hours including stops.
Is this suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes—stops are short and accessible; however, the long day and heat mean infants and those with cardiovascular or spinal issues should consult the operator first.
Are park fees included?
Yes, national park permit is included in the tour cost according to the operator’s inclusions.
What should I wear?
Layer for morning cool and midday heat: breathable base layers, a sun shirt, hat, and sturdy shoes for uneven terrain.
Can I leave the bus at any point?
Stops are guided and timed; follow the guide’s instructions for safety—wandering off into fragile habitats is discouraged and sometimes prohibited.
Will lunch be provided?
The itinerary notes a packed fresh lunch box prepared for guests; confirm dietary needs at booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
10–11 hours
Location
Furnace Creek, California
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers in average physical condition; short, mostly flat walks with some uneven terrain.
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