Get set to explore the vast wilderness of Death Valley National Park, which at over 3 million acres is the largest national park in the Lower 48. Spend four action-packed days exploring this surreal land of contrasts, home to the lowest point in North America and the driest place on the continent. Thread your way through narrow, labyrinthine slot canyons between walls of polished marble and limestone. Discover hidden oases where bighorn sheep graze. Hike to the multicolored badlands of Twenty Mule Team Canyon and stargaze in the Mesquite Flat Dunes, the country's largest designated Dark Sky Park. Spend your evenings kicking back at the campsite, enjoying colorful desert sunsets, and savoring delicious meals prepared by your guides. It's a perfect long-weekend escape from daily life and a chance to forge new friendships with like-minded travelers.
Get set to explore the vast wilderness of Death Valley National Park, which at over 3 million acres is the largest national park in the Lower 48. Spend four action-packed days exploring this surreal land of contrasts, home to the lowest point in North America and the driest place on the continent. Thread your way through narrow, labyrinthine slot canyons between walls of polished marble and limestone. Discover hidden oases where bighorn sheep graze. Hike to the multicolored badlands of Twenty Mule Team Canyon and stargaze in the Mesquite Flat Dunes, the country's largest designated Dark Sky Park. Spend your evenings kicking back at the campsite, enjoying colorful desert sunsets, and savoring delicious meals prepared by your guides. It's a perfect long-weekend escape from daily life and a chance to forge new friendships with like-minded travelers.
Hike along Dantes Ridge and the Funeral Mountains and descend into the narrows of Mosaic Canyon
[Description] => Hike along Dantes Ridge and the Funeral Mountains and descend into the narrows of Mosaic Canyon
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Spend three nights camping under starry desert skies, with a sunset picnic on the dunes
[Description] => Spend three nights camping under starry desert skies, with a sunset picnic on the dunes
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Explore the remarkable desert landscape of Death Valley National Park, from shimmering salt pans to soaring peaks
Arrive in Las Vegas to Death Valley & Hike Dantes Ridge
Day 1
Meet your fellow travelers and guides in Las Vegas early this morning. After a scenic 2.5 -hour van ride, you'll set off on your first hike in Death Valley National Park. Reach Dantes View at 5,500', then hike along the spine of the Black Mountains with amazing vistas on both sides. To the west, you'll be able to see down a vertical mile to Badwater Basin and the Death Valley saltpan, with the snow-topped Telescope Peak (11,049') directly across the valley. To the east, gaze out at range after range of mountains spilling across the California-Nevada border. After the hike, continue to Furnace Creek Campground to set up camp and enjoy a homemade dinner and an evening under the stars.
Accommodation: Furnace Creek Campground
Activity: 5 miles/ 3 hours hiking with 1,200' elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 3-hour private van transfer
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Funeral Mountains Foothills to the Badlands
Day 2
After breakfast, hike across the foothills of the Funeral Mountains to the multicolored badlands of Twenty Mule Team Canyon and Golden Canyon (for Star Wars fans, part of Return of the Jedi was filmed in Twenty Mule Team Canyon). Starting at 1,800 feet, descend below sea level through a maze of canyons to a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the Death Valley saltpan. Along the way, your expert MT Sobek guides reveal the landscape's fascinating geological features and the intriguing natural history of this extreme desert ecosystem. After your hike, return to camp, where a hearty dinner and the glow of the campfire await, followed by stargazing, if you wish.
Accommodation: Furnace Creek Campground
Activity: 10 miles/5 hours hiking with 300' elevation gain and 1,900' loss
Transportation: 30-minute private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Scramble through Mosaic Canyon & Dine on the Dunes
Day 3
This morning, your destination is a deep, narrow canyon carved into polished marble and colorful mosaics of dolomite. Hike through several sections of narrows before scrambling out of the canyon to a rim trail that bypasses an unclimbable 25-foot dry waterfall. This is your gateway to a deep, twisted gorge and another tall, dry fall and grotto. Follow the rim trail high above the canyon back to the trailhead, stopping to take in the expansive view across Mesquite Flat and Death Valley. Your dinner tonight is served on the majestic Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, where colors shift across the sands at sunset. Later, enjoy fantastic stargazing in the country's largest designated Dark Sky Park.
Accommodation: Furnace Creek Campground
Activity: 6.5 miles/5.5 hours hiking with 1,800' combined elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 1.5-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Marvel at Badwater, Devil's Golf Course & Desolation Canyon
Day 4
Finish your exploration of Death Valley with visits to the surreal salt flats of Badwater Basin and the bizarre pinnacles of Devil's Golf Course. Badwater, at 280feet below sea level, is just a few miles from the lowest point in the Western Hemisphere and often the hottest spot on Earth in summer months. The salt flats here cover nearly 200 square miles. Nearby, witness the short, jagged salt pinnacles that cluster together to form Devil's Golf Course, a peculiar landscape that stretches as far as the eye can see. Then, have one last adventure in the natural maze of colorful Desolation Canyon before heading back to Las Vegas for goodbyes and your flight home.
Activity: 3.6 miles/3.25 hours hiking with 600' elevation gain and loss
MT Sobek has been exploring US National Parks for more than 50 years, placing a strong emphasis on responsible travel practices that protect the natural environment.
This stunning northern Mojave Desert experience fits neatly into just four days—the perfect hiking trip for the short-on-time traveler.
Accompanied by our expert local guides, explore the most beautiful hidden corners of the region, and learn about its incredible geology and diverse flora and fauna.
Gather your favorite travel companions—family, friends, colleagues, or club—and enjoy an exclusive departure that’s easy to book and completely unforgettable.
A 25% non-refundable deposit is required to confirm your private departure.
Minimum age for guests on this trip is 18 years old.
Choose Your Own Travel Dates
February, March, October, November
Private Trip Pricing: 2026
10 guests from $1,995 per person double occupancy
9 guests from $2,095 per person double occupancy
7 to 8 guests from $2,295 per person double occupancy
6 guests from $2,595 per person double occupancy
5 guests from $2,795 per person double occupancy
4 guests from $2,995 per person double occupancy
3 guests from $3,095 per person double occupancy
2 guests from $3,295 per person double occupancy
*Seasonal rates may apply.
*Trip pricing on the website is provided as an estimate and is subject to change based on rates at the time of request and seasonality.
Go Custom
Create Your Very Own Adventure
Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.
When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.
*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.
The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.
Matt K.
Matt is an adventure enthusiast who enjoys engaging in nature and the great unknown as an experienced rock climber, mountain guide, and professional outdoor photographer. Based in Las Vegas, he enjoys having Red Rock Canyon in his backyard, where you can also find him cycling, trail running, and bird watching. Matt is a certified Wilderness First Responder.
Chris K.
Chris grew up splitting time between coastal Massachusetts and Northern California, finding a deep appreciation for both the ocean and mountains. Guiding since 2010, Chris has enjoyed travels around the world but thinks some of the best adventures can be found closer to home in the Western United States. He is grateful to have the unusual opportunity through guiding to share his love of this region with guests.
John S.
John Swafford was born and raised in New Orleans, LA, where he developed an appreciation of culture and cuisine. A passion for rock climbing brought him out West, where he picked up guiding in 2022. When John is not on the trail in the desert you can find him hanging out in the Yellowstone area looking for wildlife.
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After breakfast, hike across the foothills of the Funeral Mountains to the multicolored badlands of Twenty Mule Team Canyon and Golden Canyon (for Star Wars fans, part of Return of the Jedi was filmed in Twenty Mule Team Canyon). Starting at 1,800 feet, descend below sea level through a maze of canyons to a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the Death Valley saltpan. Along the way, your expert MT Sobek guides reveal the landscape\'s fascinating geological features and the intriguing natural history of this extreme desert ecosystem. After your hike, return to camp, where a hearty dinner and the glow of the campfire await, followed by stargazing, if you wish.
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Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 3. You should be capable of hiking up to 10 miles (up to 6 hours) per day, while carrying a day pack weighing 10-15 pounds. The terrain can be rugged and may require some rock scrambling to negotiate. Some hikes have short sections of steep trail that have exposure. Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 1
5 miles/ 3 hours hiking with 1,200' elevation gain and loss
Day 2
10 miles/5 hours hiking with 300' elevation gain and 1,900' loss
Day 3
6.5 miles/5.5 hours hiking with 1,800' combined elevation gain and loss
Day 4
3.6 miles/3.25 hours hiking with 600' elevation gain and loss
*Mileage and elevation change information is approximate and may vary slightly depending on trail conditions, weather, and route adjustments, and the guide’s discretion.
Accommodations
An ideally located and comfortable campground, featuring picnic tables, fire pits, and access to restrooms and potable water.
Furnace Creek Campground, nestled in the heart of Death Valley National Park, offers a unique desert camping experience at 190 feet below sea level. Surrounded by striking landscapes of rugged mountains, salt flats, and sand dunes, the campground provides a convenient base for exploring the park's iconic attractions. With a mix of shaded and open sites, Furnace Creek features picnic tables, fire pits, and access to restrooms and potable water. The stunning night skies and dramatic sunsets make it a favorite spot for stargazers and adventurers alike.
Weather
Death Valley is known for the hottest temperature on record, but spring and fall temperatures average highs of 75-85F and lows of 55-65F.
Feb
Mar
Oct
Nov
Death Valley National Park
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Death Valley National Park
74
46
82
55
93
62
77
48
FAQs
Who will meet me on arrival?
We recommend guests arrive in Las Vegas, NV the day prior to Day 1 of the itinerary due to the early pick-up time. Your guides will meet you Day 1 at 8:00 am at Homewood Suites by Hilton Henderson South Las Vegas.
What are the best months to hike in Death Valley?
The best time to visit Death Valley National Park is during the late fall, winter, or early spring. MT Sobek offers trips January-March and November-December. During these months, the weather is more moderate and comfortable for exploring the park, with daytime temperatures generally ranging from 60-80F. The MT Sobek camping based itinerary is offered March, late October, and early November to capture ideal weather conditions for camping.
What is the best footwear for hiking in Death Valley?
Sturdy hiking boots or trail running shoes with good traction are recommended for hiking in Death Valley. Lightweight hiking boots or trail running shoes are suitable for most trails, while boots offer more ankle support for challenging terrain. Whatever footwear you choose, ensure they are well broken in and comfortable for you. Sand gaiters are a nice addition for hiking in Death Valley. They prevent sand from getting into your footwear.
What is camping like in Death Valley?
Camping in Death Valley on a MT Sobek trip is easy, comfortable, and memorable. All camping-related equipment and gear is provided, and all meals are carefully planned and prepared by expert guides. Camping is the best way to experience Death Valley's dark skies, making for incredible stargazing. Camping is also a great opportunity for viewing breathtaking sunrises and sunsets.
Can I do Death Valley and Joshua Tree?
For a wider exploration of the diverse and beautiful Mojave Desert, check out MT Sobek’s Joshua Tree & Death Valley Hiking Tour for a visit to both national parks.
What is the minimum age for this trip?
The standard minimum age for these trips is 18. Families with fit younger teens may consider private and custom trip options.
