Death Valley National Park, situated to the east of the panoramic Sierra Nevada Mountain range in northern San Bernardino County and southern Inyo County in California, is one of the most arid National Parks in the United States. A small part of the mountain range also extends into the southern and south-western counties of Nevada. With a total area of over 5,262 square miles (13,630 km2), the park is best known all over the world for its scenic beauty, picturesque mountain sceneries, wildlife, recreational activities, ghost towns, and several unsolved mysteries. If you are seeking a departure from your daily routine or a refuge from cold in winter, this place is an ideal holiday destination for you.

Established in 1933, the park encompasses a significant portion of the Panamint Valley, a part of the Saline Valley, entire Death Valley, and small parts of many other mountain ranges. A region of immaculate beauty and extraordinary scenic wonder, this National Park offers is very different from other U. S. National Parks in character; it is a region of extremes, featuring extreme temperatures, extreme panorama, extreme geology, and extreme history.

Wildlife:

The park is home to over 400 unique species of birds, 36 species of reptiles, 56 mammal species, and several species of amphibians and fish. If you are an animal lover, this park is certainly not to be missed.

Recreational Activities:

The most popular recreational activities inside the park include hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and camping. The park features 9 designated campgrounds, complete with all the required facilities. Death Valley National Park is also very popular with star gazers as it has one of the darkest night skies in the U.S.

Ghost towns:

The area is also well-known as home to several ghost towns that date back to the 17th century. The Panamint City, founded by two notorious brigands, is one of the most interesting ghost towns in the area.

Sightseeing:

The best time to visit the park is from October 15 to May 15. Sightseeing can be done by a personal automobile, mountain bike, hiking, or a four-wheel drive. Apart from breathtaking viewpoints and miles of hiking trails, the park features a large number of historical points of interest. For instance, a costumed living history tour of the magnificent Scotty’s Castle is a ‘must-do’ in the area.