9 Unusual Things To Do In Death Valley National Park (2024)
Want to know all the most unusual things to do in Death Valley? We’ve got you covered with everything you need to know!
Unusual Things To Do In Death Valley National Park
Death Valley can really only be described as an unusual place to visit, so it only makes sense to see all the unusual things to do in Death Valley when you go for a visit!
1. Explore The Ghost Towns
Death Valley is home to several abandoned mining towns, including Rhyolite. Take a trip back in time and explore these historical sites.
Rhyolite Ghost Town contains remnants of the 3 story bank building and part of the old jail.
You can also see the train depot and the Bottle House, which was restored by Paramount Pictures back in 1925.
To find Rhyolite, drive 35 miles from the Furnace Creek Visitor Center toward Beatty, Nevada.
There is a paved road heading north from Highway 374 that will take you into Rhyolite.
2. Go Stargazing In Badwater Basin
The stunning night sky of Death Valley can be best viewed from Badwater Basin—the lowest point in North America!
Here you’ll find an incredible view of hundreds of stars twinkling above your head.
3. Enjoy A Unique Camping Experience At Furnace Creek Campground
Enjoy the unusual beauty and tranquility of sleeping under the stars while camping out in the desert!
Furnace Creek Campground is the only campground in Death Valley National Park that accepts reservations and has sites with full hookups.
They also offer dry RV and tent sites. Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance for stays between October 15 and April 15.
The rest of the year the campground is first come first serve.
4. Have A Picnic At Zabriskie Point
Enjoy the unusual beauty of Death Valley’s colorful badlands while picnicking with friends and family along the Zabriskie Point Trail.
This is also a great spot for watching sunrises and sunsets.
5. See Epic Star Wars Filming Locations
Dante’s View is a lookout point where you can see swirling white salt flats that were used to film Mos Eisley, a spaceport on the desert planet Tatooine in Star Wars.
Other Star Wars filming locations in Death Valley include Artists Palette, Desolation Canyon, Golden Canyon, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, and Twenty-mule Team Canyon.
6. Explore Mosaic Canyon
Embark on an unusual journey into one of Death Valley’s most unique canyons!
Experience unusual textures and beautiful colors while walking through this canyon’s narrow passages, carved by wind and rain over millions of years.
Mosaic Canyon is a 4 mile out and back trail that takes about 2 ½ to 3 hours to complete.
It’s considered a moderate to difficult trail, so it’s not for everybody.
7. Visit The Unusual Rock Formations Of Devil’s Golf Course
Explore the unusual and often otherworldly landscape of Devil’s Golf Course, a jagged moonscape filled with unusual rock formations created by centuries of salt erosion!
8. Check Out The Unusual Wildlife
Death Valley is home to some unusual creatures such as bighorn sheep, desert tortoises, and kit foxes—all perfect for birdwatching or wildlife photography!
9. Visit Ubehebe Crater
Take a hike around this unusual crater, which was formed by an ancient volcanic eruption!
Keep your eyes peeled for unusual geological wonders as you explore this unique landscape.
No matter what unusual adventure you decide to embark on in Death Valley, it’ll be sure to offer something unique and unforgettable!
To make your visit even easier consider a tour.
👉 Click Here To Download Your Death Valley National Park Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour Today!
Don’t forget to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a camera—a trip to Death Valley is guaranteed to provide some unusual memories!
Where To Stay In Death Valley National Park
Other than the campgrounds, there are actually hotels and resorts right inside Death Valley National Park where you can enjoy the desert oasis!
✅ The Inn at Death Valley
Location: Highway 190, Death Valley, CA 92328
This historic inn has been in Death Valley since 1927 that has gone under a huge renovation to bring it back to its glory days.
It’s a AAA rated four-diamond resort that served as a desert escape for Old Hollywood actors like Marlon Brando and Clark Gable.
The spring fed pool is always 87 degrees and you can enjoy drinks at the Stargazers Deck while enjoying the perfect sunset.
👉 Click Here To Book Your Stay At The Inn At Death Valley Today!
✅ The Ranch at Death Valley
Location: Highway 190, Death Valley, CA 92329
The Ranch has been in Death Valley since 1933 and features a 275 room hotel.
Enjoy the classic town square that features a restaurant, ice cream and coffee bar, general store, and saloon.
This family friendly resort is adjacent to the Furnace Creek Golf Course, a spring fed pool, sports courts, and children’s playgrounds.
From the Ranch, you can enjoy horseback and carriage rides, Jeep rentals, and more.
👉 Click Here To Book Your Stay At The Ranch At Death Valley Today!
What Is The Weather Like In Death Valley?
Death Valley is known for its extremely hot and dry climate.
The hottest temperature ever recorded on Earth—134°F (56.7°C)—was measured in Death Valley in 1913!
Summers are typically sunny and dry, while winter temperatures can dip down to freezing levels at night.
Rainfall is rare, so visitors should be prepared with sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water when visiting the area.
The best time to visit Death Valley is during spring or fall when temperatures are more moderate and the weather is milder.
Overall, the unusual desert climate of Death Valley makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a unique getaway experience!
What Is The Best Time Of Year To Visit Death Valley?
The best time to visit Death Valley is during spring (March-May) or fall (October-November).
During these months, temperatures are more moderate and the landscape is alive with blooming wildflowers.
Daytime highs range between 70°F (21°C) and 95°F (35°C)—perfect for exploring the unusual terrain of the desert.
Nighttime lows can dip below freezing, so make sure to bring plenty of warm clothing if you plan on visiting in the winter months!
In addition, light rain is common during spring and fall—which brings out even more of Death Valley’s unique beauty!
So don’t miss your chance to take in all its unusual wonders—plan a trip to Death Valley today!
If you’re considering a shoulder season visit, like the Spring or Fall months, check out this one day itinerary that takes you through all the best highlights of Death Valley National Park.
What Is Death Valley National Park Known For?
Death Valley is known for its extreme temperatures, unusual landscapes, and unique wildlife.
It’s home to the hottest temperature ever recorded on Earth as well as a thriving ecosystem of flora and fauna.
Visitors can explore ancient sea beds, take a dip in Natural Hot Springs, or catch some unique views.
With so many unusual attractions and activities to explore, Death Valley has something for everyone—making it an ideal destination for those seeking an unforgettable adventure!
So if you’re looking for an unusual getaway experience like no other, look no further than Death Valley National Park!
Conclusion: Unusual Things To Do In Death Valley National Park
As you can see, Death Valley National Park has plenty of unusual things to do and see.
It’s an iconic destination in California that you have to visit at least once in your lifetime.
