Explore Death Valley's rarely traveled backcountry to experience vast swaths of desert and extremes in elevation. Over 90% of Death Valley's 3.3 million acres are designated as wilderness, where you'll find yourself winding through the soaring walls of limestone and marble in slot canyons and marveling at views of both the highest and lowest points in the contiguous United States. Hike through the Funeral Mountains, explore hidden narrows, follow the Keane Wonder Mine Trail, and more on this expertly guided MT Sobek Death Valley expedition. And when the sun goes down, look up—Death Valley's designation as an International Dark Sky Park means the night skies are as spectacular as the landscapes below. Choose a spring departure for the chance to see annual wildflowers and blooming cactus along the trail. Death Valley's dramatic vistas are incomparable, making this a trip you won't soon forget.
Explore Death Valley's rarely traveled backcountry to experience vast swaths of desert and extremes in elevation. Over 90% of Death Valley's 3.3 million acres are designated as wilderness, where you'll find yourself winding through the soaring walls of limestone and marble in slot canyons and marveling at views of both the highest and lowest points in the contiguous United States. Hike through the Funeral Mountains, explore hidden narrows, follow the Keane Wonder Mine Trail, and more on this expertly guided MT Sobek Death Valley expedition. And when the sun goes down, look up—Death Valley's designation as an International Dark Sky Park means the night skies are as spectacular as the landscapes below. Choose a spring departure for the chance to see annual wildflowers and blooming cactus along the trail. Death Valley's dramatic vistas are incomparable, making this a trip you won't soon forget.
Hike through Death Valley National Park's sensational desert badlands, including Dantes View and the Funeral Mountains
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Access the park's best trails from well positioned lodging in the heart of the park
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Wonder at unique geology, from sparkling salt pans to eroded badlands and narrow slot canyons
Enjoy Ash Meadows Wildlife Refuge & Arrive at Death Valley
Day 1
Your trip begins this morning in Las Vegas, Nevada. After a quick round of introductions, hop into the van for a scenic drive towards Death Valley National Park. On the way, stretch your legs along the boardwalks of Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, a rare desert oasis ecosystem. After arriving at your hotel, you'll have free time to settle into your room before meeting up with your group and guides for dinner, where you'll discuss the week's itinerary. On spring (February and March) departures, you'll enjoy a short walk to the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes for a sunset picnic dinner.
Accommodation: Stovepipe Wells Village Hotel
Activity: 1.5 mile/1.5 hour scenic walk
Transportation: 3-hour private van transfer
Meals: Dinner
Hike the Funeral Mountains to Colorful Badlands
Day 2
After breakfast, hike across the stark foothills of the Funeral Mountains to the red, ocher, and golden brown hues of the badlands at Twenty Mule Team Canyon (for Star Wars fans, part of Return of the Jedi was filmed here) and Golden Canyon. Start your hike at 1,800 feet and descend below sea level through a maze of canyons to a viewpoint overlooking the shimmering white Badwater Basin saltpan. At 200 miles, it's one of the largest protected salt flats in the world. Your expert MT Sobek guides will point out the landscape's fascinating geological features and enlighten you about the natural history of this unique ecosystem. This evening, you may want to do some stargazing—Death Valley National Park is a designated International Dark Sky Park.
Accommodation: Stovepipe Wells Village Hotel
Activity: 10 miles/6 hours hiking with 300' elevation gain and 1,900' loss
Transportation: 1.5-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Follow Prospecting Trails at the Keane Wonder Mine
Day 3
Today, you explore one of Death Valley’s most iconic and storied mining sites—the Keane Wonder Mine. Hike a rugged trail that winds through the remnants of this historic gold mine, once one of the most successful operations in the region. As you climb, take in sweeping views of Furnace Creek and the vast desert floor below. You’ll pass rusted mining equipment, remnants of old tram towers, and ore carts that offer a glimpse into the hardships of early 20th-century prospectors. The trail is moderately strenuous with steady elevation gain, but the panoramic vistas and rich history make every step worth it.
Accommodation: Stovepipe Wells Village Hotel
Activity: 4 miles/5 hours hiking with 1,000' elevation gain and 1,000' loss
Transportation: 1-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Climb to Dantes View for Badwater & Telescope Peak Vistas
Day 4
This morning, enjoy the drive to Dantes View at 5,500' and strike off cross-country along the spine of the Black Mountains, with amazing views on both sides. To the west, look down a vertical mile to Badwater Basin and the saltpans, the lowest point in the United States at 282 feet below sea level. Directly across the valley, the snow-covered summit of Telescope Peak soars to 11,049 feet, the highest point in the state. To the east, look out over range after range of mountains spilling across the California-Nevada border. On a very clear day you can see all the way to the highest point in the lower 48—Mount Whitney. After soaking up all the spectacular scenery, return to your comfortable accommodations to relax and perhaps take a plunge in the pool.
Accommodation: Stovepipe Wells Village Hotel
Activity: 5 miles/ 4 hours hiking with 1,000' elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 2-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Explore Mosaic Canyon & Hike the Canyon Rim
Day 5
Descend into a deep, narrow canyon carved into polished marble and colorful mosaics of dolomite by flash flooding. Hike through several sections of narrows, where smooth walls rise high on either side, before scrambling out of the canyon to a rim trail that takes you around a sheer 25-foot dry waterfall. The rim trail is the gateway to a deep, twisted gorge and another tall, dry fall and grotto. As you trace the canyon rim back toward the trailhead, the landscape opens to sweeping views of Mesquite Flat and the vast, sunbaked expanse of Death Valley beyond. The hike is a geological adventure into some of Death Valley’s most surreal and striking landscapes.
Accommodation: Stovepipe Wells Village Hotel
Activity: 5 miles/5 hours hiking with 1,200' elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 0.5-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Visit Badwater Basin & the Devil's Golf Course & Depart
Day 6
Round out your Death Valley adventure with a visit to two of its most otherworldly landmarks: Badwater Basin and the Devil’s Golf Course. Take a short stroll along the boardwalk and onto a vast salt flat that stretches toward the horizon in geometric patterns of white at Badwater Basin, quite possibly the hottest spot on Earth. Nearby is the Devil’s Golf Course, where jagged salt spires rise in clustered formations across a cracked and chaotic landscape. Listen closely—you may hear the salt crystals popping and pinging in the heat. Then it’s time to say your goodbyes to this awe-inspiring national park and return to Las Vegas.
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.
Take a deep dive into this less-explored corner of the Mojave Desert, hiking into Death Valley's rugged heart while still hitting its most iconic highlights.
Accompanied by our expert local guides, explore the most beautiful hidden parts 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.
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.
Asli K.
A well-rounded guide and certified Wilderness First Responder, Asli (“Oz”) spends her free time hiking, biking, running, and skiing the mountains of the west with her 3 beloved dogs (Max, Woody and Chia). When not on an adventure, you can find her managing Down to Earth, a residential composting company based in Reno, Nevada. Her love of animals, the outdoors, and sustainability are all passions she brings to the trail.
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.
Preston H.
Preston grew up frolicking in the fields and forest of northwest Wisconsin before completing a B.S. in outdoor education, guiding and teaching in the remote wilderness everywhere from Arkansas to Hawaii. He is a certified Wilderness First Responder. He enjoys all kinds of outdoor adventure, whether running the Front Range trails or rollerblading near his home in Boulder, Colorado, surfing in Mexico, or climbing in Cuba.
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After breakfast, hike across the stark foothills of the Funeral Mountains to the red, ocher, and golden brown hues of the badlands at Twenty Mule Team Canyon (for Star Wars fans, part of Return of the Jedi was filmed here) and Golden Canyon. Start your hike at 1,800 feet and descend below sea level through a maze of canyons to a viewpoint overlooking the shimmering white Badwater Basin saltpan. At 200 miles, it\'s one of the largest protected salt flats in the world. Your expert MT Sobek guides will point out the landscape\'s fascinating geological features and enlighten you about the natural history of this unique ecosystem. This evening, you may want to do some stargazing—Death Valley National Park is a designated International Dark Sky Park.
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Today, you explore one of Death Valley’s most iconic and storied mining sites—the Keane Wonder Mine. Hike a rugged trail that winds through the remnants of this historic gold mine, once one of the most successful operations in the region. As you climb, take in sweeping views of Furnace Creek and the vast desert floor below. You’ll pass rusted mining equipment, remnants of old tram towers, and ore carts that offer a glimpse into the hardships of early 20th-century prospectors. The trail is moderately strenuous with steady elevation gain, but the panoramic vistas and rich history make every step worth it.
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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. The terrain can be rugged and may require some rock scrambling to negotiate. Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 1
1.5 mile/1.5 hour scenic walk
Day 2
10 miles/6 hours hiking with 300' elevation gain and 1,900' loss
Day 3
4 miles/5 hours hiking with 1,000' elevation gain and 1,000' loss
Day 4
5 miles/ 4 hours hiking with 1,000' elevation gain and loss
Day 5
5 miles/5 hours hiking with 1,200' elevation gain and loss
Day 6
0.5 miles/0.5 hours scenic walking
*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
A charming desert retreat hotel with rustic western ambiance.
Stovepipe Wells Village Hotel is a charming desert retreat in Death Valley National Park, offering comfortable accommodations and stunning views of the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. With a rustic western ambiance, the hotel features an on-site restaurant, saloon, general store, and a refreshing outdoor pool. It's an ideal base for exploring the park's dramatic landscapes and unique attractions.
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
Trip Overview
What makes MT Sobek's California Death Valley Hiking trip unique?
Explore the rugged heart of the Mojave Desert on this expertly guided six-day adventure through California's Death Valley National Park. Discover a landscape of slot canyons, salt flats, and soaring peaks. With over 50 years of experience, MT Sobek leads you beyond the highlights into rarely traveled backcountry for a truly immersive desert experience.
Decades of Expertise: On this trip you get the benefit of MT Sobek's decades of experience as National Park Service authorized guides—you'll discover iconic vistas and hidden gems far from the standard tourist paths with our expert guides.
Rarely Traveled Backcountry: Journey into the park's quiet interior, exploring hidden narrows and the Funeral Mountains away from the typical tourist crowds.
Extremes in Elevation: Experience the dramatic contrast of the contiguous US, from the saltpans of Badwater Basin at 282 feet below sea level to the sweeping high-altitude vistas from the summit of Dante's Peak.
Historic Mining Lore: Follow the Keane Wonder Mine Trail to explore remnants of 20th-century prospecting, including old tram towers and ore carts.
Stargazing Sanctuary: Stay in a designated International Dark Sky Park, where star-filled skies and sunset picnics on the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes offer unmatched natural beauty.
When is the best time to experience California's Death Valley hiking?
October through March is the best time to experience comfortable desert temperatures, ideal for hiking in Death Valley. During these months, the intense summer heat subsides, the air is crisp and clear, with seemingly endless vistas—perfect for full days on the trail. While weather in the desert is always a point of adventure, this window offers the best balance for exploration, and we plan our trips to take advantage of these ideal months.
October to November: Experience pleasant daytime highs in the 70s° to 80s°F and cool nights, ideal for late-season hiking under exceptionally clear, dark skies.
December to January: Enjoy crisp daytime temperatures in the 60s°F and the chance to see snow-covered mountains like Telescope Peak from the valley floor.
February to March: Choose a spring departure for the unique opportunity to see annual wildflowers and blooming cacti decorating the craggy desert landscape.
What is the group size for this trip?
The typical group size for this trip is between 4 and 10 guests, creating an experience that feels personal, relaxed, and thoughtfully paced. Small group travel allows us to share moments that make a journey truly memorable. With groups of this size, our guides can offer more intimate insights into the Mojave's diverse flora, fauna, and geology.
What is the minimum age for this trip?
The standard minimum age for this trip is 18. This itinerary is designed with adult travelers in mind, based on daily activity levels, accommodations, and overall group experience. Families or groups with younger children please check out our private departures .
What makes this a Level 3 trip?
This Level 3 trip is designed for active hikers ready to tackle rugged desert trails and significant elevation changes. You’ll cover up to 10 miles over six hours, navigating through slot canyons and across salt pans. The combination of varied desert terrain and steady climbs defines the physical challenge of this adventure.
Daily Endurance: Prepare for consecutive active days with hikes ranging from five to six hours and distances up to 10 miles.
Desert Topography: Trails include a mix of stark foothills, loose salt flats, and rocky canyons with a small section of scrambling, using your hands for balance.
Vertical Gain & Loss: Expect steady elevation changes, including a challenging 1,900-foot descent through canyons and 1,200-foot climbs to spectacular overlooks.
The Exposure Factor: Desert hiking means moving through sun-exposed landscapes where daytime temperatures average into the 80s to 90s°F at lower elevations.
Will the itinerary change?
We plan the itinerary carefully, but adjustments may be needed due to weather, trail conditions, or other factors. MT Sobek and our guides make thoughtful decisions when needed in real time to keep the experience safe and enjoyable, and any significant changes will be communicated as early and as clearly as possible. The wide range of world-class locations in Death Vally provide your expert guides with excellent options if adjustments are needed.
Arriving and Departing
Where does California Death Valley Hiking start and end?
The trip starts and ends in Las Vegas, Nevada.
What airport should I fly into and out of?
You should fly into and out of Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas.
When should I book my flights?
Once your reservation with MT Sobek is finalized, we'll notify you of your trip's status. After your departure is confirmed to operate, flights and travel arrangements may be purchased. While we can often confirm departures in advance, some decisions may be finalized closer to final payment. Please check with your Adventure Coordinator before purchasing non-refundable airfare.
When should I arrive and depart?
Once your booking is finalized with MT Sobek and your trip has been confirmed to operate, flights may be purchased. If you are unsure of the status of your trip, be sure to check with your Adventure Coordinator prior to booking non-refundable flights. We recommend arriving a day early to allow for travel delays and to ensure you are rested for an early start on Day 1.
Arrival: Arrive at Harry Reid International Airport Las Vegas (LAS) in time to transfer to the meeting hotel in Henderson for a 10:00 am orientation on Day 1.
Departure: Plan your departure from Harry Reid International Airport Las Vegas (LAS) for any time after 7:00 pm on Day 6.
Who will I meet on Day 1, and where?
You will meet your expert MT Sobek guides and fellow travelers at 10:00 am on Day 1 at the Homewood Suites by Hilton Henderson South Las Vegas . Following a brief orientation and introductions, you’ll begin your adventure with a scenic drive toward Death Valley National Park.
What hotels do you recommend if I arrive early or stay late?
We recommend staying at our host hotel, the Homewood Suites by Hilton Henderson South Las Vegas , at 10450 South Eastern Avenue in Henderson, Nevada, for any pre- or post-trip stays. The hotel offers a complimentary airport shuttle for your convenience. You may book these additional nights directly with the hotel or through your favorite booking site.
Do I need a passport or visa for this trip?
US citizens do not need a passport for this trip. Non-US citizens should verify entry requirements with the appropriate authorities based on their citizenship.
Transportation and Transfer
Are airport transfers included?
You will need to arrange your own transfer between Harry Reid International Airport Las Vegas (LAS) and the host hotel in Henderson. Homewood Suites does offer a complimentary shuttle for guests staying at the property or taxis/rideshare options are available and typically cost $20 to $30.
Can MT Sobek help arrange a private transfer?
No, guests are responsible for their own transportation to the meeting location.
How much time will I spend in vehicles during the trip?
While most of your time will be spent on the trail, transfers to trailheads typically take between 30 minutes and 2 hours in a private 15-passenger van. It's about a three-hour drive between Las Vegas and Death Valley National Park on Day 1 and Day 6.
Are there any especially long travel days?
The longest travel days are Day 1 and Day 6, with three-hour private van transfers between Las Vegas and Death Valley National Park.
Fitness, Terrain and Trail Expectations
How difficult is the activity on California Death Valley Hiking?
This is a Level 3 adventure that requires good physical conditioning for daily hikes of five to six hours most days. You should be prepared for rocky desert trails and steady elevation gains/losses that can feel more strenuous in the desert environment.
Climbs and Descents: Expect elevation gains and losses of up to 1,200 to 1,900 feet on the most active days, requiring steady cardiovascular stamina.
Diverse Terrain: Be prepared for uneven, rocky trails, hiking in sand, off-trail travel, and some scrambling.
Desert Climate: The dry desert air and strong sun intensity make physical exertion feel more strenuous. Constant hydration and sun protection are critical as you manage the effects of the arid climate, heat, and limited shade on the trail.
Back-to-Back Active Days: You will be hiking for six consecutive days on craggy and mixed terrain desert trails.
Do I need prior experience?
Prior hiking experience is recommended. While no technical climbing is required, you should be comfortable walking up to 10 miles on rocky, uneven surfaces, hiking off-trail, scrambling short sections using your hands for balance, and feel confident with moderate elevation changes.
How should I train or prepare for California Death Valley Hiking?
To get the most out of your desert adventure, we recommend starting a training regimen at least two months prior to departure. Focus on building cardiovascular endurance and leg strength to prepare for six consecutive days of hiking on mixed, often rocky, surfaces.
Engage in aerobic exercise three to four times a week for at least 45 minutes; activities like brisk walking, hiking, or cycling are excellent for building heart and lung capacity. If possible, practice on trails with elevation gain and loss to condition your muscles for the inclines and descents you will encounter in the parks. Try to maintain an average pace of around two miles per hour, which is an average group hiking pace on this trip.
It is also essential to spend ample time walking in the hiking boots or trail shoes you plan to wear on the trip to ensure they are comfortable and to prevent blisters.
Remember that a gradual, consistent increase in your activity level is much more effective—and safer—than trying to consolidate all your training into the final weeks before the trip.
Is there exposure or technical terrain?
This is not a technical trip, but the landscapes are rugged and will require occasional rock scrambling and off-trail travel to navigate our hiking routes. Some trails, such as those along the canyon rims or the spine of the Black Mountains at Dantes View, you may pass near steep drop-offs or along open rock faces, with rewarding dramatic vistas. Your expert guides will manage the pace and provide support through these sections.
Can I hike at my own pace?
Guests hike as a group, led by expert guides who manage the pace with regular breaks. This approach ensures that everyone can hike comfortably while maintaining safety and group cohesion throughout the journey.
What if I want to skip a day?
Because this trip returns to the same hotel each night, you have the flexibility to skip the scheduled hikes on Day 2, Day 3, Day 4, or Day 5 to relax at the hotel. Please note that on Day 1 and Day 6, you will be traveling between locations, so full participation is required.
How much free time will I have?
Days are centered around active exploration, but you will have free time each evening to relax at your desert retreat. You might choose to take a plunge in the hotel pool, enjoy a drink at the saloon, or participate in nightly stargazing under some of the darkest skies in the country.
Accommodations and Meals
What should I expect from accommodations on this trip?
You will stay at the Stovepipe Wells Village Hotel, a historic western-themed desert retreat ideally located inside Death Valley National Park. The property offers a rustic western ambiance with comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and a saloon. While the setting is dramatic and remote, the hotel provides a welcoming base for daily adventures.
Will I have access to Wi-Fi and electricity?
Electricity is reliable, and you will have outlets in your room each evening to charge devices. Cell service and Wi-Fi are generally reliable at the hotel.
What meals are included?
All meals are included on this trip from dinner on Day 1 through lunch on Day 6. Meals feature hearty breakfasts, trail-ready picnic lunches, nourishing snacks, and flavorful dinners. On Day 1, there will be a stop en route to Death Valley where you can purchase additional snacks, beverages, or food items.
What is the food like on California Death Valley Hiking?
Meals are designed to fuel your active days in the desert. At the hotel, breakfasts feature hot and cold buffet selections, while dinners offer a choice of entrees and side dishes. Lunches are served picnic-style or packed in the morning to carry on the trail, with fresh meats, cheeses, vegetables, and energy snacks. A highlight of the trip is a sunset al fresco dinner on the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes.
Non-alcoholic beverages are provided throughout the trip. On your way into the park on Day 1, you'll make a convenient stop where you're welcome to pick up any wine, beer, or spirits you'd like to enjoy throughout the week.
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes, we can accommodate many common dietary restrictions on this trip with advance notice, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free requests.
Let us know about your dietary restrictions and food allergies as soon as possible, so we can coordinate with guides, hotels, and restaurants. Please also list these on your Participant Information Form.
Are single rooms available?
Yes, ample single rooms are available on this trip. About a third of our travelers go solo, and single room inventory often books up quickly! You can find more information on solo traveler options here .
Are triple rooms available?
Triple rooms are not offered on this trip to ensure all accommodations meet MT Sobek standards for your comfort.
Packing and Gear
What should I pack for California Death Valley Hiking?
The key to desert comfort is layering and sun protection. Essential items include moisture-wicking hiking clothes, a wide-brimmed sun hat, UPF-rated clothing and high-SPF sunscreen, and a high-quality daypack.
Layering for Variable Desert Weather: Temperatures can range from near freezing in the morning to 90°F or higher during the day. UPF-rated clothing is helpful in the desert sun and be sure to pack a fleece or wool sweater/jacket, a down jacket, and a waterproof rain jacket with a hood to stay prepared for shifting conditions.
Hiking Footwear: Supportive hiking shoes or boots with solid soles, good traction, and ankle support are key to your enjoyment of this trip.
Hydration Essentials: Staying hydrated is critical in the arid desert climate. You should bring reusable water bottles or a backpack hydration system with a total capacity of at least three liters. Consider bringing powdered electrolytes to replenish minerals lost to sweat in the heat.
A full Packing List will be provided to help you prepare.
Do I need trekking poles or specialty gear?
Trekking poles are recommended for stability on trails that can be loose and sandy or rocky. For your convenience, MT Sobek provides trekking poles for all guests on this trip, so you do not need to bring your own unless you have a personal preference.
What size daypack should I bring?
We recommend a daypack with a capacity of 20 to 30 liters. It should be large enough to comfortably carry at least three liters of water, your lunch/snacks, extra layers (like a windbreaker or fleece), sunscreen, and your personal first-aid kit.
Can I bring more than one bag?
Guests should plan to bring one main piece of luggage and a daypack. Because vehicle space is limited, packing efficiently is important. We recommend a soft-sided wheeled duffel or suitcase for your main luggage.
Are there any seasonally required items?
Regardless of when you travel, warm layers are necessary as desert nights can drop into the 30s°F. Be prepared for daytime highs in the 80s to 90s°F at lower elevations and be sure to have adequate rain gear and a down jacket for cooler, windier days at altitude, especially in the winter months.
What kind of footwear should I bring for this trip?
Sturdy, properly fitting hiking footwear is essential for this trip. We recommend hiking boots or supportive hiking shoes with solid soles, good traction, and ankle support to handle uneven trails and variable terrain.
Some hikers are comfortable using low-ankle trail shoes in certain conditions, but you should also bring high-ankle hiking boots in case trail conditions or weather require extra stability.
Whatever footwear you choose, it is vital that it fits well and is fully broken in before the trip. Hiking in unfamiliar environments for multiple days in a row puts added stress on feet and ankles, and reliable, well-tested footwear makes a meaningful difference in comfort and safety.
Will I have access to laundry during the trip?
Laundry facilities are not available at your hotel. If you wish to hand-wash lightweight items, we recommend bringing a travel clothesline and small packets of detergent.
Should I bring a personal medical kit?
Yes. Your guide will also carry a first aid kit, but we recommend you bring your own supply of basics such as blister care, anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen, adhesive bandages, sunscreen, lip protection, and electrolytes to have handy. Please bring a sufficient supply of your personal medications.
On-the-Ground Travel Tips
What is the weather like for hiking Death Valley by month?
Death Valley’s weather is defined by its dramatic desert landscape, where temperatures shift significantly between the basin floor and high-altitude viewpoints. Death Valley holds the record for the highest reliably recorded air temperature on earth, exceeding 130°F on July 10, 1913. Because summer high temperatures are consistently far too high to enjoy active travel, this trip operates only during the most temperate months, though you should still prepare for a wide range of conditions, from sunbaked salt flats to cool mountain breezes at 5,400 feet.
October to November: Enjoy warm daytime highs in the 70s° to 80s°F, with comfortable hiking conditions and cool nights averaging in the mid 50s°F.
December to January: Expect cooler daytime temperatures in the 60s°F and nights that can drop into the high 30s°F, requiring warm layers.
February to March: Spring brings highs in the 70s° to 80s°F, though temperatures can occasionally reach 100°F at lower elevations such as Badwater Basin. Lows are typically in the high 40s°F to 50s°F.
The Altitude Rule: Temperatures typically drop three to four degrees for every 1,000 feet of vertical gain, making warm layers particularly essential when we visit Dantes View and Keane Wonder Mine.
What currency should I bring?
The currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted at the hotel and in Las Vegas, but carrying some cash is helpful for small personal purchases, snacks, and guide gratuities.
Will I have cell service?
Cell service is extremely limited in the park and is generally only available near the Stovepipe Wells or Furnace Creek areas. We recommend downloading important personal information for offline access before you leave Las Vegas.
Will I need electrical adapters or a voltage converter?
The hotels use standard US 120-volt outlets. If you are traveling from outside the US, you may need a plug adapter or voltage converter, but most modern electronics can be used at this voltage.
How much extra money should I budget?
You should budget for alcoholic beverages, personal souvenirs, and guide gratuities. Most guests find that $100 to $300 is sufficient for these personal expenses, not including gratuities for your guides, and depending on your shopping preferences. Shops generally accept credit cards as well.
How is tipping handled on this trip?
Tipping is a common way to show appreciation for your guides' expertise and hard work. For hiking adventures in the US, we recommend a gratuity of $50 to $70 per day, per guest, for the guide team. Tips for hotel staff and restaurants are already included in your trip price. Gratuities can be paid in cash or via apps like Venmo or Zelle and should be delivered to the trip leader for equitable distribution.
Specific tipping recommendations for your departure will be outlined in your Final Details, which are sent about three weeks before the trip.
Health and Safety
Do you recommend travel insurance?
Yes, we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance for all trips. Travel insurance can help cover trip cancellations or interruptions, medical expenses, emergency evacuation, travel delays, and other unexpected situations.
We offer travel insurance with Arch RoamRight and will be happy to provide you with a quote. Please see our Travel Resources page for more information.
Do I need to be cleared by a doctor to participate?
There is no standard required clearance from a doctor to participate in this trip. You will have an opportunity to discuss your fitness and preparedness for the trip with MT Sobek. If you have medical concerns or questions about fitness, consult your healthcare provider before traveling.
What medical support is available during the trip?
Your MT Sobek guides are trained in Wilderness First Aid or as Wilderness First Responders and carry a comprehensive group first-aid kit and an emergency communication device. Guides are prepared to manage common issues on the trail, but hospital facilities are far from the park, and professional medical care can be delayed due to the park's remote location and vast interior.
What kind of challenges should I expect?
It is important to be prepared for the unique desert environment of Death Valley. You will want to be comfortable walking on rocky and uneven footing to best take advantage of the stunning canyons and ridge trails. Be prepared for back-to-back days on the trail in a warm, arid climate. Keeping sufficiently hydrated, ensuring you don't get overheated, and wearing adequate sun protection are vital to your comfort and enjoyment. Your guides will be emphasizing constant hydration, frequent breaks in the shade, and starting hikes early in the day when temperatures are cooler.
How can I stay healthy during the trip?
The most important wellness tip for this trip is to hydrate before you're thirsty—the dry air can evaporate sweat so quickly you may not realize how much fluid you are losing. Additionally, wearing a sun hat, UPF-rated clothing and high-SPF sunscreen, and following your guide's advice on pacing will help you maintain your energy throughout the week. Pamper your feet by wearing liner socks, trimming your toenails, and addressing any "hot spots" immediately. Regular hand sanitizing, especially before picnic lunches, is also a key habit for staying well on the trail.
Trail Support and Emergencies
What if I have an emergency and need to be evacuated?
In the event of a medical emergency, your guides will coordinate evacuation based on your location and the severity of the situation. It is important to understand that because Death Valley is a vast wilderness, evacuation can be prolonged, difficult, and expensive. The National Park Service will determine what evacuation methods will be available based on the specific emergency and location within the park. Helicopter evacuations are not always available, and guests should be prepared to hike out to the nearest evacuation point whenever possible. For this reason, we strongly recommend travel insurance that includes emergency medical evacuation coverage.
Are bathrooms available on the trail?
Standard bathroom facilities are not typically available on these hiking routes or at trailheads. We follow "Leave No Trace" principles, and your guides will provide guidance on how to answer nature's call responsibly and privately while protecting the fragile desert environment.
What is the guide-to-guest ratio?
This tour is typically staffed with one guide for groups of up to eight guests. For larger groups a second guide is added to ensure a high level of support.
Extensions and Local Exploration
Are trip extensions available before or after California Death Valley Hiking?
While we do not offer formal pre- or post-trip extensions for this itinerary, some recommendations are provided below.
What are the best things to do if I arrive early or stay late?
If you have extra time in the Las Vegas area, consider exploring the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area for additional hiking, visiting the historic Hoover Dam, exploring the Neon Museum for a taste of local history, or enjoying the world-class dining and entertainment on the Las Vegas Strip. Many guests also enjoy taking a relaxed pre-trip day at our host hotel in Henderson to adjust and prepare their gear.
Some guests enjoy linking multiple US National Park trips back-to-back. An MT Sobek Trip Consultant can help you explore available options based on your departure date if you’re considering visiting other nearby national parks before or after your Death Valley trip.
