This One-Way Drive Through A Colorful National Park Is A Must-See

Death Valley National Park isn't a gloomy and scary place, as its name might suggest. Actually, it's a stunning, breathtaking destination that everyone should add to their must-visit list. The park has many geological wonders, it's home to beautiful canyons, towering sand dunes, and fascinating geological formations. One of its most famous attractions is Badwater Basin, which is 282 feet below sea level, the lowest point in North America. Visitors can also explore other notable landmarks, like Devil's Golf Course and Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes.

One of the most fascinating ways to explore the park is by taking a scenic drive along Artists Drive, a road that winds through colorful hills and canyons. The highlight of the drive is Artists Palette, a viewpoint that offers stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape. Along the way, you'll have plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the spectacular scenery. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just looking for a fun day trip, Artists Drive is a must-see attraction you won't want to miss.

Death Valley National Park offers a unique experience that showcases its diverse appeal. The adventure usually starts at the famous Badwater Basin. Here, you'll find vast salt flats extending to the horizon, creating a striking contrast with the Panamint Mountains in the background. The salt polygons are beautiful, especially when they glisten under the sun, providing a serene introduction to the drive.

About 14 miles from here, you'll find Artists Drive, a gorgeous stretch of land famous for its diverse and stunning hills. This one-way, nine-mile drive takes you through the most captivating landscapes of the park. It usually takes around 25-45 minutes to complete, and it's not just a road, but a visual representation of the park's history through its breathtaking scenery. The hills are called Artists Drive because they resemble artwork, with their various colors that shift as you drive through them. These hues come from the mineral deposits in the park and range from deep purples to bright greens and blues.

According to All Trails, Artist's Palette trail is a 0.3-mile out-and-back hiking route that takes just over 10 minutes to complete. The area is part of Artists Drive, and the terrain is a geological wonder. Every turn offers a new and incredible view, and the light changes continuously, making it a truly unforgettable experience.

Death Valley National Park spans over 3,000 square miles. Besides the famous Artists Drive, there are many other scenic spots throughout the park to explore. For another fantastic road trip, consider stopping at Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes at dawn, or after the sun goes down for breathtaking Death Valley stargazing. Zabriskie Point offers panoramic views of the surrounding badlands and is especially beautiful at dawn. If you enjoy hiking, Golden Canyon is another popular trail that offers striking views of the park's unique geology, including towering rock formations and narrow slot canyons. The Gower Gulch Hike features eroding sandstone cliffs and canyons. Finally, Dantes View offers a mind-blowing panorama of Death Valley more than 5,000 feet above Badwater Basin. These are just a few attractions that Death Valley National Park has to offer, so take your time and explore this unique landscape.

If you're planning to drive through Death Valley, it's essential to be prepared. The park is known for its extreme temperatures, so bring plenty of water, even if you're just planning a day trip. It's also a good idea to travel in a car equipped with air conditioning to help keep passengers cool and comfortable. To ensure your safety the National Park Service recommends keeping on paved roads if you visit in the summer, as that's when cars are most likely to overheat or break down.