Best Stops on the Drive from
Los Angeles, CA to Death Valley National Park, CA
Embark on an epic Los Angeles to Death Valley road trip to discover salt flats, sand dunes, and rugged desert peaks in California's wild interior.
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Must-See Stops Along the Way
These are our hand-picked recommendations to break up the drive.
Red Rock Canyon State Park
Marvel at the spectacular colorful rock formations and desert cliffs along Highway 14.
Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes
Walk across vast, shifting golden dunes that create a surreal Saharan landscape.
Badwater Basin
Step onto the expansive salt flats located at 282 feet below sea level.
Artist's Drive
Take a scenic loop through volcanic hills painted in vibrant shades of pink, green, and purple.
Zabriskie Point
View the iconic golden-colored badlands and erosional landscapes from this famous overlook.
About This Route
About Los Angeles, CA to Death Valley National Park, CA
The road trip from Los Angeles to Death Valley National Park transitions from the bustling Pacific coast to the most dramatic desert landscapes in North America.
- •Desert Vistas:Experience the stark beauty of the Mojave Desert and the Panamint Range.
- •Geological Wonders:Visit the lowest point in North America at Badwater Basin.
- •Stargazing:Drive into an International Dark Sky Park for unparalleled night views.
This route offers a profound sense of solitude and natural wonder just a few hours away from the city.
Best Time to Visit
- •Best Time to Visit:November through March offers mild temperatures ideal for hiking and exploring.
- •Summer Warning:Temperatures regularly exceed 120°F from June to August, making outdoor activity dangerous.
Distance & Driving
- •Route Variety:A mix of multi-lane freeways and long, desolate stretches of two-lane desert roads.
- •Fuel Strategy:Gas stations are sparse once you enter the park; fill up in Mojave or Lone Pine.
- •Cell Service:Expect significant dead zones once you leave the main highway corridors.
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