Death Valley is located in central California, pressed up against the Nevada border. The nearest major airport is Las Vegas McCarren, two hours from the park's main visitor center at Furnace Creek.
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You might be wondering: How many days are needed to explore Death Valley? You can hit the main attractions in 2-3 days, but you won't run out of things to do should you plan a longer visit! Fun fact: Death Valley National Park is the largest national park in the lower 48.
Joshua Tree has probably the best weather conditions year round compared to Death Valley. If you want to see the desert wildflower bloom, visit in early spring (March-April). And even though Joshua Tree will often top 100 degrees in the summer, it is nothing like the average of 116 degrees Death Valley gets.
If you don't have car access, then the Bundu Bus will be the next cheapest option. The bus travels through Death Valley on its way from Las Vegas to Yosemite and the $89 one-way fare includes a guided tour of a portion of the park.
Travel prepared to survive: Stay on paved roads in summer. If your car breaks down, stay with it until help comes. Carry extra drinking water in your car in case of emergency. Watch for signs of trouble: If you feel dizzy, nauseous, or a headache, get out of the sun immediately and drink water or sports drinks.
In fact, our first Death Valley visit was just a day trip from Los Angeles and back to check out the park. I'd recommend giving yourself at least a long weekend here to really enjoy the park, but you can absolutely pack a few great highlights into 24 hours.
The highs for Death Valley in the spring months average between 82-100°F (27-38°C) with lows averaging 55-73°F (13-23°C). March and through mid-April are great months to visit the park, but by end of April into May starts the consistent 100 degree days.
Zabriskie Point is the most famous viewpoint in Death Valley National Park. Overlooking the colorful badlands of the Furnace Creek formation and beyond to the Panamint Mountains in the distance, Zabriskie Point is especially popular at sunrise and sunset.