Death Valley Day Trip from Las Vegas: Dante’s View, Badwater & Artist’s Palette
A full-day guided loop from Las Vegas that hits Death Valley’s most dramatic viewpoints—Dante’s View, Zabriskie Point, Badwater Basin and Artist’s Palette—while unpacking the park’s geology and history. Expect long drives, short walks, and raw desert scenery best seen in morning or late-afternoon light.
The Experience
Before You Go
Hydration above all
Carry at least 3 liters per person and refill at Furnace Creek; the tour provides water but bring extras in summer.
Sun and heat protection
Wide-brim hat, high-SPF sunscreen, and long-sleeve breathable layers prevent sunburn and heat fatigue.
Sturdy shoes for viewpoints
Closed-toe hiking shoes or trail runners handle uneven, often loose ground around overlooks and short walks.
Start early or late
Plan for sunrise or late-afternoon light at Dante’s View and Zabriskie to avoid harsh midday sun and get better photos.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Small salt-encrusted pools near Badwater that reflect mountains in the morning light
- •Short, little-known pullouts along Artists Drive where mineral bands reveal unusual color transitions
Wildlife
- •desert bighorn sheep
- •kit fox
Conservation Note
Death Valley is fragile—stay on designated roads and trails, pack out trash, and avoid disturbing cryptobiotic soil to preserve desert ecology.
The Timbisha Shoshone have inhabited the region for centuries; later 19th-century mining and borax operations left roads and ghostly infrastructure that dot the park.
Photographer's Notes
- • Dante’s View rim for sweeping basin shots
- • Zabriskie Point ridge for layered badlands
- • Badwater Basin salt flats for minimalist foregrounds
What to Bring
Water bottle (3L+ capacity)Essential
Hydration is critical—bring a refillable bottle or bladder to minimize stops.
Sun hat and sunglassesEssential
Protects against strong desert sun and glare across salt flats.
Sturdy trail shoesEssential
Good traction for viewpoint scrambles and uneven ground.
Light layers and windbreaker
Temperatures can swing widely from high basin heat to cool ridge winds at Dante’s View.
Common Questions
How long is the drive from Las Vegas?
Expect about 2–2.5 hours each way depending on traffic and stops—round-trip driving is significant so the tour is a full day.
Is there an entrance fee to Death Valley National Park included?
Park entrance fees may apply; check current NPS rates before your trip—some commercial tours include the fee while others do not.
Are restrooms available along the route?
Yes—at Furnace Creek Visitor Center and some major stops, but facilities are limited between attractions so plan accordingly.
Can children join this tour?
Children can join but the tour notes physical and heat risks; operators may have age restrictions—confirm at booking.
Is this tour suitable for people with back or heart problems?
This tour is not recommended for travelers with severe back, heart, or pregnancy-related concerns due to long drives and occasional uneven walking.
When is the best time to visit for photography?
Early morning and late afternoon provide the best light—sunrise at Dante’s View and sunset around Zabriskie or Artist’s Palette are ideal.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
10–11 hours
Location
Furnace Creek, California
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness for short walks and stepping on uneven terrain; most of the day is seated in a vehicle.
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