3 day itinerary for Death Valley

Itinerary

A three-day adventure from Las Vegas to Los Angeles through Death Valley sounds like an incredible journey! Let’s dive into an itinerary that balances exploration, stunning landscapes, and a bit of relaxation. Buckle up, and let’s hit the road!

## Day 1: Las Vegas to Death Valley

Morning:

• Departure from Las Vegas: Start your day early! Grab a hearty breakfast at a local café or your hotel. You’ll want to fuel up for the day ahead.
• Drive to Death Valley: It’s about a 2-hour drive (around 130 miles) to the Furnace Creek Visitor Center. Enjoy the scenic views as you leave the glitz of Vegas behind.

Midday:

• Furnace Creek Visitor Center: Stop here to get maps, check the weather, and learn about the park’s history. The rangers are super helpful!
• Lunch: Pack a picnic or grab a bite at the Furnace Creek Ranch. The views are stunning, and you’ll want to refuel for the adventures ahead.

Afternoon:

• Badwater Basin: Head to the lowest point in North America! The salt flats are mesmerizing, and you can take a short walk out onto the salt crust. Don’t forget your camera!
• Devil’s Golf Course: Just a short drive away, this area features jagged salt formations. It’s a great spot for some unique photos.

Evening:

• Sunset at Zabriskie Point: This is a must-see! The colors of the badlands at sunset are breathtaking. Arrive a bit early to snag a good spot.
• Dinner: Head back to Furnace Creek for dinner. If you’re up for it, enjoy some stargazing afterward; Death Valley is a designated Dark Sky Park!

## Day 2: Exploring Death Valley

Morning:

• Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation or pack something to eat on the go.
• Golden Canyon Hike: Start your day with a hike! The Golden Canyon Trail is a moderate hike that offers stunning views and leads to the Red Cathedral. It’s about 2 miles round trip.

Midday:

• Lunch: After your hike, head to the nearby Stovepipe Wells Village for lunch. They have a nice little café with some tasty options.

Afternoon:

• Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes: Spend some time exploring the dunes! You can walk, take photos, or even try sandboarding if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Titus Canyon: If time allows, take a scenic drive through Titus Canyon. The colorful rock formations and narrow canyon walls are a sight to behold.

Evening:

• Dinner: Return to Furnace Creek for dinner or try the Stovepipe Wells area again.
• Night Sky Viewing: If you’re up for it, find a quiet spot away from lights and enjoy the starry sky. Bring a blanket and just soak it all in!

## Day 3: Death Valley to Los Angeles

Morning:

• Breakfast: Have a leisurely breakfast and pack up your things.
• Scotty’s Castle (if open): If time permits and it’s open, take a quick detour to visit this historic mansion. It’s a fascinating piece of Death Valley history.

Midday:

• Drive to Los Angeles: Start your journey towards LA. It’s about a 4-5 hour drive (around 270 miles), so you might want to stop for lunch along the way. Consider stopping in the town of Barstow for a bite.

Afternoon:

• Arrival in Los Angeles: Depending on your arrival time, you can explore a bit of LA. Maybe check out the Hollywood Walk of Fame or grab a coffee at a local café.

Evening:

• Dinner in LA: Treat yourself to a nice dinner at one of LA’s many fantastic restaurants. You’ve earned it after your desert adventure!

And there you have it! A fun-filled three-day itinerary that takes you from the bright lights of Las Vegas through the stunning landscapes of Death Valley and into the vibrant city of Los Angeles. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! Safe travels! 🌵✨