2024 Inyo County Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in November)

The lowest spot in North America below sea level!

The lowest place in North America is located in death Valley, called Badwater Basin and is 282 feet below, sea level! When I visited, it was covered with salt, was pretty much dry, and turned into a great walk. Tip: make sure to come in early morning because it's getting hot very quickly. Their Rangers, who are eager to explain what's going on and provide with the information about the place. This isn't the most crowded spot in the Death Valley, which is surely a plus. And in general is just acute thing to visit the lowest spot in North America! #nationalparks #100waysoftravel #usa

Secret awesome viewpoint in Death Valley

Aguereberry Point is a secret hidden spot in Death Valley. It is an awesome absolutely stunning viewpoint that is not crowded. Elevation is 6433 feet (approximately 1961 meters) and the wind is usually pretty crazy even on sunny days. This is much more remote, less visited part of the park, so be sure that you vehicle is safe to operate because you might not have any cellular connection, and there may not be other travelers. #nationalparks #100waysoftravel #usa #deathvalley

Sunrise to sunset in Death Valley

#usatrip A winters trip chasing the sun through Death Valley. Our trip started at 4.30 in the morning from Las Vegas with a quiet drive over to Death Valley. Our first stop was sunrise at Badwater Basin. At this time of year the basin was flooded making for breath taking views and reflections. Next we stoped at Devils golf course and onto Artists pallet for a quick snack break. At around lunchtime we stopped at the Ranch for a swim and bite to eat. Highly recommend doing this, the water is spring fed and amazing, even on a winters day! Our final stop was sunset at Zabriskie Point. We followed the trail and encountered few people. The main point and photo spot from the car park was very busy though! #usatrip #100waysoftravel #deathvalley #Badwaterbasin

Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes 🇺🇸

#naturalbeauty Located in the heart of California's Death Valley National Park, the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes present a landscape of stark beauty and surreal formations. These iconic sand dunes, easily accessible and visually stunning, offer visitors a glimpse into a dynamic desert environment that feels both timeless and otherworldly. Captivating Natural Beauty The Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes are among the most photographed features in Death Valley due to their classic undulating shapes and the dramatic shadows they cast, especially at sunrise and sunset. The dunes vary in size, with some reaching heights of over 100 feet. The contrast of golden sands against the backdrop of rugged desert mountains creates a perfect setting for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Activities and Exploration Walking and sandboarding are popular activities on the dunes. The soft sand underfoot makes hiking a challenging but rewarding endeavor. Early morning or late afternoon treks are recommended, not only to avoid the midday heat but also to enjoy the dunes at their most visually appealing. The shifting light at these times enhances the textures and contours of the sand, providing a magical experience. Visitor Tips - Best Times to Visit: Aim for early morning or late evening to catch the softest light and avoid the intense heat of midday. Sunrise and sunset are particularly spectacular, as the low light casts long, shifting shadows across the dune surface. - Safety First: Carry plenty of water, wear sun protection, and be mindful of the temperature, which can soar, especially in summer. - Leave No Trace: As always in natural settings, adhere to "Leave No Trace" principles. Be mindful of your impact on the fragile desert ecosystem. - Navigation: While exploring, keep in mind that there are no marked trails on the sand dunes, so it's important to have a good sense of direction or a GPS device. Ideal Itinerary 1. Arrival and Setup: Arrive the evening before your full day at the dunes to camp nearby or stay in accommodations within Death Valley. 2. Sunrise: Start early to hike and photograph the dunes in the soft morning light. 3. Daytime Exploration: Post-sunrise, consider a drive to nearby points of interest in Death Valley like Badwater Basin or the Furnace Creek area. 4. Sunset: Return to the dunes in the late afternoon to catch the changing colors and cooler temperatures. 5. Stargazing: After dark, take advantage of Death Valley's famous dark skies for some of the best stargazing in the world.

The Artist's Palette in Death Valley

Visiting the Artist's Palette in Death Valley was a magical experience. This stunning location features vibrant, colorful rocks ranging from red, yellow, green, to blue, resulting from metal oxidation over time. Driving across the path to the site was fun, each turn revealing a new and magnificent view. Standing before this natural painting felt like standing before a colossal piece of art. The colors change with the sunlight, adding a magical touch to the visit. It was a moment to reflect on the beauty and uniqueness of nature, making me appreciate the artistic power of the Earth. The return was filled with inspiration and the beauty of nature.

Snow or…Salt?

Snow or Sand? This is the Death Valley National Park, 3.5 hours drive from Los Angeles. This was the first National Park I visited in my 15 day long holiday in the United States. As a city boy myself, I will always jump at any opportunity to head out to the outdoors and with this being the first park of our trip, it was especially refreshing and...liberating. To see the vast expense of land under a clear blue sky that was thankfully not too hot as it was the winter, what a magical feeling it was! These are some of the places that I enjoyed during my short visiting this park: 1. Badwater Basin 2. Devil's Golf Course (can see salt flats here too!) 3. Dante's View for the panoramic view 4. Zabriskie Point (take a hike to see more coloured mountains!) #WinHKFlight #winhkflight To me, Hong Kong is a holiday destination that offers an eclectic mix of culture, outdoors, nightlife, food and history! I want to travel to Hong Kong to view the skyline from Victoria Peak, trundle along and observe the city on the "Ding Ding", grab an afternoon tea at a local Char Chan Teng and...so much more!

The fairy tale of autumn - October Eastern California, California, is the most colorful season of the year. In the area of the North Lake of Bishop Canyon, the forest is full of colors, the blue sky is washed, the autumn water is clear, and the scenery is picturesque. Even the stars of the Stars are enjoying themselves.

The most scenic spot in Death valley

Zabriskie Point it's probably the most iconic and awesome spot in the entire death valley. The views are truly stunning and fascinating. There is a convenient parking lot nearby the lookout. A few hikes start here. If you're planning to hike here, then better come very early because by 10 AM the temperature even in winter is nearly unbearable. But even just a simple visit of the viewpoint itself without any hard-core hiking is absolutely worth it. Seriously, that's probably the best you can see. #nationalparks #100waysoftravel #usa

A viewpoint not to miss!!!

Dante lookout is one of the most amazing viewpoints in death Valley. It is an easy drive after Badwater basin and you pretty much will be looking down where you've been, just from above. The view is absolutely stunning. And if you come in in winter - then you most likely to see some snow peaks on the horizon. Most probably you won't stay for long at Dante viewpoint, but it surely worth a stop. #domestictravel #100waysoftravel #usa

Best spot to chill at the sunset in Death Valley

Death Valley is all about hiking and driving, there aren't that many awesome places actually just to chill. My favorite spot for sunset is Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. Quite some people go there for the sunset but the area is very big, and if you're willing to walk - then you can easily escape the crowd. This place is actually really cool and comfortable. Just don't forget the temperature drops significantly right after sunset, so make sure you have a jacket or something. #nationalparks #100waysoftravel #usa #deathvalley

Insane views of Death Valley

Death Valley is probably my favorite national park. The views there are just absolutely stunning, fascinating, insane. There are lots of viewpoints and various spots to visit. But just a simple drive through it is an absolute pleasure and visual ecstasy. Do not forget that there are not many facilities on the territory of the park in that it gets really hot during summer. So prepare your water and snacks, make sure AC works in your car, if you can bring extra fuel because there was just one working gas station at the moment of my last visit, and the line was absolutely crazy. Tip: cellular connection is not great on the territory of the park, so make sure you download your maps and we'll have them in off-line mode. #nationalparks #100waysoftravel #usa #deathvalley

Death Valley Dunes

The romantic view of a desert often comprises of towering sand dunes as far as the eye can sea. Those visiting Death Valley for the first time, despite its wonder, may be slightly disappointed that the environment on first glance seems more rocky and dusty than sandy. However on leaving the informative Furnace Creek visitor centre, and heading North West, that vision may come back into the view at the stunning Mesquite flat sand dunes. #desert #deathvalley #dunes #california

Autumn in California is just as beautiful as the East Coast! Here are some recommended spots along Highway 395 for autumn viewing.

While the East Coast has maple leaves in autumn, California has the autumn colors along Highway 395. Here are some hidden autumn viewing spots along Highway 395 in California. Don't miss out on these lesser-known autumn viewing spots in California this autumn! 🍂 📝Autumn viewing along Highway 395 in California ⏰Time: October is suitable for autumn viewing, but the best viewing dates vary each year ✅Tips: Before setting off, you can check Mono conty fall color or California fall color map (information may be delayed, you can set off when it shows Near Peak) 🚩Recommended autumn viewing spots along Highway 395 (Starting from the autumn viewing spots that peak earlier) 📍North Lake: The smallest area, once the default wallpaper for Mac, the scenery is quite good. To reach the lakeside, you need to walk along a relatively narrow dirt road, and the autumn colors are strong along the way. 📍South Lake: The lake view is average, but the waterfalls, streams, and poplar forests along the way are very beautiful in autumn and worth a visit. 📍Rock Creek Lake: Autumn is a good time to take a walk here, especially the golden poplar forest by the lake is very beautiful. 🚘Address: Rock Creek Lake Trailhead, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546 📍McGee Creek Trail: A good place for hiking in autumn, the yellowing poplar forest is like a golden river flowing into the valley, and the scenery is beautiful wherever you go. 🚘Address: McGee Creek Trailhead 📍Convict Lake: The clear blue lake water and the golden leaves on the side form a sharp contrast. Here you can go boating, fishing, or walk around the lake. It takes about 1 hour to walk around the lake, which is quite rich. 📍June Lake Loop: This route includes 4 lakes with different styles. The golden leaves by the lake are very spectacular. It is recommended to drive clockwise from June Lake. June Lake and Silver Lake are the most popular lakes, and it is interesting to step on autumn. 🚘Address: June Lake Beach Parking 📍Mono Lake Navy Beach Viewpoint: Located on the south side of Mono Lake, it is about a 10-minute drive away and is the best viewing point of the lake. There is a spectacular limestone tower by the lake. 🚘Address: Navy Beach Rd, Lee Vining, CA 93541 📍Conway Summit Viewpoint: A birch forest by Highway 395. When driving here, you can take a look at the beautiful autumn scenery. 🚘Address: Conway Summit, US-395, California

Exploring Death Valley: A Journey into Extreme Beauty 🏜️🔥

This guide helps you navigate the awe-inspiring landscapes of Death Valley while staying safe and enjoying the natural beauty! Save this guide for your next trip to this incredible national park. 🏜️ Mesmerizing Landscapes: Death Valley’s diverse terrain includes rolling sand dunes, salt flats, and colorful badlands. Visit Zabriskie Point for stunning panoramic views at sunrise or sunset. 🔥 Extreme Heat: Death Valley is one of the hottest places on Earth! Stay safe by visiting in cooler months (fall to spring) and avoiding midday heat. 💧 Hydration is Key: Always carry plenty of water. The dry heat can dehydrate you quickly, even on short hikes. 🥾 Great Hiking: Explore trails like Golden Canyon or Mosaic Canyon for spectacular rock formations. Stick to marked paths to avoid getting lost. ⬇️ Badwater Basin: Visit the lowest point in North America—282 feet below sea level! Walk on the salt flats for an otherworldly experience. 🚗 Scenic Drives: Take the Artist’s Drive loop to see vibrant, multi-colored hills. The contrasts of the colors against the desert are surreal. 🌌 Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, Death Valley offers some of the darkest night skies in the country—perfect for stargazing. #summerdestinations #deathvalley #mytravelhacks #historicallandmarks #localguides #familytrip

Badwater Basin: The Lowest Point in North America 🇺🇸

This guide helps you experience the unique beauty of Badwater Basin while staying comfortable and safe during your visit. Save this for your next trip to Death Valley! 🏜️ Salt Flats: Walking on the expansive salt flats of Badwater Basin feels surreal. The hexagonal salt formations stretch for miles, making it a photographer’s dream. ⬇️ Unique Spot: Standing 282 feet below sea level, Badwater Basin is the lowest point in North America! Don’t forget to snap a photo by the elevation sign. ☀️ Beat the Heat: It gets extremely hot, especially in summer. Arrive early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense midday sun. 💧 Stay Hydrated: Even short walks can be draining due to the heat, so carry plenty of water with you. 🥾 Easy Walk: The salt flats are easy to walk on, and you can venture out as far as you like for solitude and incredible views. 🌅 Sunset Views: The vast open space makes Badwater Basin a perfect spot to watch the sun dip behind the mountains, casting a warm glow over the flats. #summerdestinations #deathvalley #nevada #mytravelhacks #historicallandmarks #localguides #familytrip

Exploring the Heart of the Desert: Death Valley

Death Valley National Park is a place where you can experience dramatic landscapes and the power of nature firsthand. The vast desert and towering mountain ranges create breathtaking scenery that leaves a lasting impression on travelers. In particular, the areas where Joshua trees and desolate red rocks come together are perfect for photography. While the daytime heat can be extreme, the evening sunsets are mesmerizing. Unique terrains like 'Badwater' and 'Mesquite Flat' showcase the mysteries of nature, and the various hiking trails are also appealing. However, it's essential to be mindful of the weather and to be well-prepared with plenty of water and supplies. Death Valley is a unique destination where you can experience both the beauty of nature and extreme environments simultaneously.

Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is primarily located in the southeastern part of California, USA, with a small corner extending into Nevada. Geographically, the park is situated in North America's Basin and Range region, where there is frequent crustal activity. The crust to the east stretches eastward, and the crust to the west stretches westward, causing the crust here to sink in strips, breaking into roughly north-south oriented horsts (mountain ranges) and grabens (basins). The basin and range topography is particularly pronounced in Death Valley, as it contains the lowest point in the Western Hemisphere. The park features salt flats, sand dunes, volcanic craters, canyons, snow-capped mountains, and more, offering a wealth of geological and geomorphological wonders. Visitors can easily find a variety of faults, canyons, and alluvial fan plains of different sizes formed when streams flow into the desert.

Death Valley National Park

#thingstodo Just beautiful, we were there in December it was cold but perfect weather for hikes and long walks. The Badwater Basin was so picturesque 👌 not to be missed. We did take the stroller all the way to the basin although it was a little hard to push also wear a shoes that you can wash of salt from when you go there. We even saw a few Star Wars fans in costumes during our hikes :) Fewer restrooms like most National Parks, go prepared Fantastic place to visit, walk around or drive through. Amazing colors on the rock walls. Loved the painters pallet and the lake. It took quite awhile to get there but worth it. It’s very remote with hardly any cell service. Fill up your tank before getting too far. Death Valley is absolutely worth visiting! The landscapes are so unique that you'll forget you're still in the US and you can see insane natural phenomenons in just 1 day here.With an air conditioned vehicle you can safely tour many of the main sites in Death Valley. Stay on paved roads in summer, and if your car breaks down, stay with it until help arrives.

one of the best experiences I've ever had.. I felt like for the first time in my life I was truly on earth. staff is amazing, food is spectacular. I went here on Thanksgiving and didn't wanna leave. pool is natural hot springs that is drained and cleaned every night. #

Badwater Basin in Death Valley National Park

Salt flats, which offer a surreal and otherworldly experience. The view is truly breathtaking, and visitors often feel as though they are walking on another planet. You can see a variety of textures and patterns created by the salt formations, from smooth, glassy surfaces to intricate, crystalline structures. Pls make sure that you prepare your own drinking water.

California's Death Valley, a scenic area that should not be overlooked.

Death Valley in California is only about a 2-hour drive from Las Vegas, so it is often considered an additional attraction for those visiting the gambling city, and its rich content is often overlooked. In fact, its area ranks among the top in the national parks in the United States, but due to the lack of distinctive features and the scattered distribution of attractions, coupled with the extremely harsh environment (the negative altitude causes the surface temperature to remain above 50 degrees Celsius for a long time in summer) and insufficient development, people are not very fond of it. In fact, it is still a very good choice to visit it carefully, especially in winter. My spouse and I used two days in November 2022 to self-drive and visit some attractions. Due to the previous flooding, the northern and western roads of the park were interrupted, making some attractions inaccessible. We departed from Los Angeles and arrived at the east gate of the park before noon. We visited Dante's View, Badwater, Artist's Palette, and Zabriskie Point. We stayed overnight at the Amargosa Opera House in Death Valley, a hotel and theater opened by a former female dancer. On the second morning, we went to Zabriskie Point to watch the sunrise, and then hiked the Golden Canyon trail. After passing through the visitor center in Furnace Creek, we visited the mining site Harmony Borax Works and Sand Dunes (a filming location for the movie "Dune"). We stopped for gas at Stovepipe Wells Village (which was surprisingly cheaper than Death Valley), and then headed southwest and turned left onto Emigrant Canyon Road (since Highway 190 was closed). This road is a narrow paved road that goes uphill all the way. There were few cars on the road, but many cyclists, and we also saw many wild donkeys eating grass leisurely against the backdrop of distant snow-capped mountains. Our final stop was the Charcoal Kilns, located above the snow line, and after this point, cars without snow chains could no longer travel. We then turned west and left the national park, ending our park trip around 4 pm. The final experience to share is that Death Valley is still a worthwhile tourist attraction, especially the Golden Canyon trail, which is worth spending half a day to a day exploring. If the scenic area is open normally, it takes 2-3 days to visit, and I recommend everyone to come and experience it.

Death Valley National Park

Death Valley is the main part of the Mojave and Colorado Deserts Biosphere Reserve. It is located in the desert valley of California, USA, on the border between California and Nevada, east of the Nevada Mountains. Death Valley is 225 kilometers long, 6-26 kilometers wide, with an area of 1408 square kilometers. The canyon has cliffs on both sides and treacherous terrain, and is also the lowest and driest area in North America. It is also known as the "Dead Volcano". The best time to visit Death Valley is from early November to late April, suitable for tourism and sightseeing. The tourist spot is the 9-mile-long Artists Drive route at the foot of Black Mountain, and the entrance is 5 kilometers north of "Golden Canyon".

Death Valley National Park ▪️ Although the name is not pleasant, it is very beautiful!

Death Valley National Park ▪️ Although the name is not pleasant, it is very beautiful ||| The last article of Death Valley National Park Let's share our itinerary. . We went here during Thanksgiving, which is in winter (by the way, it's not recommended to come in summer as the weather is extremely hot). Due to the desert climate. The temperature difference here is very large. Winter temperatures range from 15-20 degrees Celsius. And at night, the temperature is around 0 degrees. Therefore, it is recommended to bring a thick coat for clothing. . Day 1. -Artists Palette in the morning (accessible by foot) -In the afternoon, Badwater Basin (the sunset is quite beautiful for taking photos) Day 2. -Zabriskie Point in the morning (can be hiked, we went here three times in total, once for sunrise, once around noon, and once to see the stars, where we could see the Milky Way!) These photos were taken right here, and some of the scenes were captured at sunrise. -Twenty mule team canyon, where we took a self-driving tour in the middle. -In the afternoon, visit Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes (recommended for sunset). Our itinerary is quite relaxed and not rushed. If time is tight, it can still be completed in one day~ There are several famous scenic spots such as the moving stone and the volcanic crater. Everyone can decide according to their own preferences~ . Regarding accommodation, it is generally recommended to stay inside the park in most national parks, and this one is no exception. Staying inside the park can save a lot of time. . Overall, although this national park is not the best, I still like it very much. After all, being able to see the basin, desert, hills of different colors, and salt flats all at once with little effort hiking in a national park is still a great experience. Death Valley National Park