The name sounds ominous, but Death Valley can be a fun day-trip if you plan ahead, arm yourself with plenty of water, and visit before the weather gets too hot. This is a park of “-ests.” It’s one of the lowest, hottest, and driest spots in North America. Here are three quick tips for enjoying your trip to Death Valley National Park with your family:
1. Check the weather. You might be surprised! Yes, the name is ominous and it does get extremely hot during the summer months. However, if you visit Death Valley in winter, you’ll want to bring a jacket. Also, be aware that if you visit the sand dunes or the salt flats, your clothes and shoes will get sandy, salty, or both. In other words, leave the fancy clothes at home! (This should be a no-brainer, but I’m always shocked by the clothes some people choose to wear when they go hiking.)
2. Do some research before you go. This is a vast park, so you’ll want to make the most of your time. We went into the park at the East Entrance, near Death Valley Junction, and worked our way north. We then hit the salt flats on our way back at the end of the day. Kids will enjoy the Mesquite Sand Dunes, which is basically a huge sandbox.
3. As you can imagine, it’s a pretty lonely drive from Las Vegas to Death Valley. A good place to stop for gas or food is Pahrump, Nevada. You’ll find a variety of restaurants, gas stations, and grocery stores. I suggest stopping for gas here; there is a gas station inside the park, but the prices are higher than they are elsewhere.
Have you visited Death Valley with kids? Please share your advice by leaving a comment!
Sounds like a place to visit in various seasons, yet I wouldn’t want to come in summer when it’s super hot. I heard about this park, yet had no idea it was as big as it sounds here. I guess almost everything is big in the States
Especially out west. So much wide open space!
I can honestly say that may be the first time I’ve ever heard anybody say that it would be a good idea to stop in Pahrump.
Yes! I think we should contact the Guiness Book of World Records…
Great advice, Sarah! Totally agree on checking the weather. We had to wait the rain out – who knew it rained in May? Layering is a good idea too. We actually spent some time in Pahrump stocking up on snacks and our lunch. Also, make sure to have some good entertainment for the kids since it’s a long drive between attractions. We just bought the National Park annual pass so we’ll be back later this year =)
You know, we haven’t done this yet!! But when Squishy is a bit older I’d love to take him to the sand to play, and to climb a bit!!
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