One-Day Death Valley Adventure: Badwater, Dante's View & Zabriskie Highlights
In a single long day from Las Vegas, you can stand on the lowest ground in North America, watch sunrise ignite sculpted badlands and look down from a high ridge that frames an entire desert basin. This guided tour threads Death Valley’s geological story with practical tips for handling heat, salt flats and long drives.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring triple the water you think you need
The tour provides water but temperatures and dry air mean you’ll consume more than usual—carry at least 2–3 liters per person for the day.
Wear closed-toe shoes with grip
Short walks include salt crust and rocky viewpoints; supportive footwear keeps you steady on uneven surfaces.
Start early or plan for late light
Golden hour at Zabriskie Point and the glow on Artists Palette are best at sunrise or sunset—ask about timing if you want photos in the best light.
Prepare for long transit times
Expect 10–11 hours total with substantial driving; motion sickness remedies and snacks help make the day comfortable.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Drive the short side road to the Harmony Borax Works interpretive stop for mining history and classic photographs
- •Stop briefly at lesser-known salt pan pullouts near Badwater for patterns in the crust that change with seasons
Wildlife
- •Desert bighorn sheep (often seen on higher ridges at dawn)
- •Kangaroo rats and small lizards around scrub and rocky outcrops
Conservation Note
Staying on roads and marked viewpoints minimizes damage to fragile crust and cryptobiotic soils; pack out waste and avoid collecting geological specimens.
The valley records long human presence from Timbisha Shoshone stewardship to 19th-century mining and the borax era that shaped early tourism routes.
Photographer's Notes
- • Dante's View (panoramic basin views)
- • Zabriskie Point (badlands textures at low angle light)
- • Badwater Basin (salt patterns and foreground leading lines)
What to Bring
2–3 liters water bottleEssential
Hydration is critical in the dry, hot environment—carry more than you think you'll need.
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF 30+)Essential
Wide sun and reflective salt demand strong, reliable sun protection.
Sturdy closed-toe shoesEssential
Good traction and support for salt flats, gravel and short stairways at viewpoints.
Light wind or fleece layer
Higher elevations like Dante's View can be noticeably cooler and windy, especially in morning and evening.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The tour runs about 10–11 hours (600–660 minutes), including pickup and drop-off in Las Vegas and time spent driving between park highlights.
Will I walk a lot during the tour?
No extended hikes are required—expect short walks from pullouts and viewpoints lasting from a few minutes to half an hour at certain stops.
Is the park entry fee included?
Park entry fees may apply; check your booking confirmation or ask the operator—many tours include essentials like water and transportation but not the national park fee.
Can the tour operate in extreme weather?
The operator may cancel tours in extreme heat, flash flood risk or other unsafe conditions; you’ll get a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours ahead per policy.
Is this trip suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Families and older travelers can join, but those with serious mobility, spinal, heart or pregnancy-related restrictions are advised not to participate.
What should I wear?
Layered, breathable clothing, closed-toe shoes, hat and sunglasses, plus sun-block—mornings can be cool but the day often becomes very hot.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
10–11 hours
Location
Furnace Creek, California
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with a basic to moderate fitness level—short walks and standing at viewpoints; not recommended for those with serious spinal or cardiovascular issues.
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