DEATH VALLEY NATIONAL PARK
DEATH VALLEY NATIONAL PARK
DEATH VALLEY TRIP FOR THE FAMILY
Nestled in the heart of the Mojave Desert in California, Death Valley National Park may seem like an inhospitable place, but it’s actually a treasure trove of natural wonders waiting to be discovered by families. With its surreal landscapes, unique geological formations, and diverse wildlife, Death Valley offers families an unforgettable adventure in one of the hottest and driest places on Earth. Here are eight reasons why Death Valley is the perfect destination for families:
Badwater Basin: Begin your journey at Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America. Walk out onto the salt flats and marvel at the vast expanse of white, crystalline salt stretching to the horizon. Kids will love the otherworldly feel of this surreal landscape.
Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes: Explore the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, where towering sand dunes rise against the backdrop of rugged mountains. Climb to the top of the dunes for panoramic views of the desert below and watch as the sun sets over the horizon.
Zabriskie Point: Hike to Zabriskie Point for breathtaking views of the colorful badlands and erosional landscape. Kids will love exploring the maze of ridges and gullies and spotting wildlife, including desert bighorn sheep and kit foxes.
Artist’s Palette: Drive through Artist’s Palette, a colorful canyon known for its vibrant hues of red, orange, yellow, and purple. Stop at overlooks along the way for stunning views of the mineral-streaked cliffs and rock formations.
Golden Canyon: Hike through Golden Canyon, a narrow gorge carved by water and wind over millions of years. Follow the interpretive trail markers and learn about the geology, history, and ecology of the area.
Devil’s Golf Course: Visit Devil’s Golf Course, a surreal landscape of jagged salt crystals and eroded rock formations. Kids will love exploring the rugged terrain and imagining themselves on another planet.
Harmony Borax Works: Discover the history of the borax mining industry at Harmony Borax Works, a historic site dating back to the late 19th century. Explore the ruins and learn about the miners who lived and worked in this harsh environment.
Junior Ranger Program: Engage the whole family in Death Valley’s Junior Ranger Program, where kids can learn about desert ecology, geology, and conservation through fun and interactive activities. Upon completion, they’ll receive a badge and a sense of pride in protecting this unique wilderness area.
With its stunning landscapes, unique geological formations, and opportunities for outdoor adventure, Death Valley National Park offers families a chance to connect with nature and create memories that will last a lifetime. Pack your sense of adventure, plenty of water, and sunscreen, and prepare for an unforgettable journey through the desert wilderness of Death Valley.
OUR DEATH VALLEY STORY
We began our summer family vacation on a Friday evening by flying into Las Vegas. We arrived in Death Valley National Park at about 3:30 am and drove to Zabriskie Point. After sleeping in our rental car for about an hour, we watched the sunrise. It was warm, but the day had just begun….