Things You'll Need:
- water, water, water!
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Step 1
Interpretive Programs
Start your visit to Death Valley National Park by going to the Furnace Creek Visitor Center and Museum or Scotty’s Castle Visitor Center. Participate in a ranger-led tour to learn more about Death Valley’s unique natural and cultural history. Tours out of Furnace Creek are not scheduled during the hot, summer season, so call ahead or visit the park’s website for program schedules. Most activities in the park take place between October and April. -
Step 2
Scotty’s Castle
Explore Scotty’s Castle during your trip to Death Valley National Park to learn about the interesting and colorful characters that lived in Death Valley in the early 1900’s. Tours of Scotty’s Castle are led every day of the year. Call in advance to place a special request to take an Underground Mystery Tour of the castle’s basement. This tour focuses on the unique and innovative technology used to build the castle. -
Step 3
Accommodations
Decide how much money you want to budget for your accommodations. When planning a trip to Death Valley National Park there is a range of accommodations to choose between. You can find lodging at Furnace Creek Inn, Furnace Creek Ranch, Stovepipe Wells Village, Panamint Springs Resort, and in the towns adjacent to the park. There are also nine campgrounds located in Death Valley National Park will varying facilities. Call ahead for more information about the campgrounds because the lower elevation campgrounds are closed during the hotter summer months. -
Step 4
Operating Season
Check local weather conditions for the season you will be visiting as you plan your trip. Death Valley National Park is open to visitors year-round, but some months are better to visit the park than others. The winter is the preferred season and has the most hospitable temperatures. Late March to early April is a nice time to visit the park if you want to see the spring wildflowers. Avoid visiting the park from May through September when temperatures are at their peak in Death Valley. Cooler fall temperatures return to the park in October. A great time to visit is between Thanksgiving and Christmas when the weather is nice and the park is less crowded. Check the Death Valley National Park website or call the Visitor Center for more detailed information about weather conditions during the time of your trip. -
Step 5
Additional Information
Look online and in books for additional information as you plan your trip to Death Valley National Park. The park website also has a downloadable visitor guide full of useful information. See the Resources section below for links to additional information.
