Death Valley National Park lies in the Mojave Desert being the driest national park of all. and has a subtropical, hot desert climate. It is so dry because it lies in the rain shadow of Sierra Nevada and Panamint Range. The hottest temperature ever recorded was 134°F (57°C) in 1913. The lowest elevation level is 282 feet below sea level but it also offers a peak as high as 11043ft (3366m) called Telescope Peak.
Best Time to Visit Death Valley
Weatherwise the best time to visit Death Valley is Spring (February to April) and Fall (Ocotber to November). This is when the temperatures are not as crazy as in summer with highs from 75°F (23°C) to 93°F (34°C). In spring you can enjoy wildflowers due to the rain during winter. In fall you will have clear skies and distant views with fewer tourists. Winter brings along chilly nights (39°F-46°F/4°C-8°C) but spectacular views of the valley with snowy peaks. If you want the full on desert experience come between May and September when temperatures reach 100°F (40°C) and more and exprience the shimmering heat. Not as many visitors dare to visit Death Valley then.
Things to know about Death Valley
Death Valley is hot and huge and not soo extremely crowded as many other national parks. It is a perfect destination to reach from Las Vegas if you search a contrary experience of silence and vastness. Make sure you visit the following "hot spots":
- Hike the Golden Canyon Trail
- Enjoy the view from Zabrieskie Point
- Check out the colorful Artist's Palette
- Stick your feet in the soft sand of Mesquite's Flat sand dunes
- Furnace Creek Visitor center offers you all you need to regenerate from the heat
- and finally Badwater Basin is a must see of Death Valley.