What's the best time to visit Death Valley?
The best time to visit Death Valley is in March and April when the weather is pleasant, wildflowers bloom, and temperatures are in the 80s and 90s. It’s also a great time for stargazing.
Accommodations are more affordable from January to April, but avoid late spring and early summer when temperatures exceed 100 degrees. Plan at least four days to explore the park’s attractions like Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes and Dante’s View.
Despite its morbid name, Death Valley is bursting with flora and fauna, making it a photographer’s dream. You’ll also find some of the most breathtaking views in Death Valley National Park.
We’ll show you the best times to visit whether your vacation goals are to take in the captivating scenery, enjoy the dunes, or go camping and hiking. We’ll point you to the most affordable ways to visit Death Valley.
Plus, we’ll help you avoid planning your trip at the worst time to visit Death Valley (you know, if there were such a thing) when temperatures are setting high records, and it’s dangerous to be outside.
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Overall Best Time to Visit Death Valley
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The overall best times to visit Death Valley are in March and April. While Spring is the busiest time, the weather is the best, and the spring wildflowers peak in late March and early April.
Temperatures begin to rise beginning in March with an average of 82 degrees. By April the thermometer is reading in the 90s. You’ll beat the late spring and early summer heat by planning your trip for March or April.
Mild nighttime temperatures are also best for stargazing. Most visitors to Death Valley stay in Las Vegas and drive out to the park during the day.
Luckily, you’ll find some of the lowest hotel prices from January through April. You can also camp or stay at an inn or resort at the national park. These lodgings are open all year.
Stovepipe Wells Village accommodates RV camping with full hookups. The Inn at Death Valley is a privately owned first-class resort. Panamint Springs Resort offers resort accommodations and camping.
You’ll pay a little more for your flight during these prime weather months. But it’s worth it if you want to avoid the late Spring and early Summer.
During this time, temperatures reach 100 degrees and above! You can also camp at Death Valley National Park as your least expensive lodging option. Make time for all the sites by staying at least four days.
Check out one of the most photographed sites in Death Valley, the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. Drive Backwater Road and Artists Drive to take in the scenery from the comfort of your air-conditioned car. Hike Dante’s View for a vista of Death Valley.
Cheapest Time to Visit Death Valley
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The cheapest time to visit Death Valley is in the early Summer. The hotels in Las Vegas and the flights into Harry Reid International Airport are the cheapest in May and June.
The few exceptions are holidays, such as Memorial Day and the 4th of July. While the summer heat is scorching, travelers still love to plan getaways for holidays, and who can blame them?
If you can take the heat with air temperatures at 100 to 110 degrees during May and June, you can score some sweet deals to stay in Las Vegas. Keep in mind that visiting Death Valley means lots of time outside.
You can book low-priced rooms in Las Vegas from September through November also. The temperatures break in November with an average high of 77 degrees. You’ll miss the wildflowers though, and your flight won’t be at its lowest price.
Least Busy Time to Visit Death Valley
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The least busy time to visit Death Valley is in the winter. The temperatures are mildest during the winter months. Since seeing Death Valley is an outdoor activity, you can beat the crowds and the heat by booking your trip from December through February.
January is part of the “shoulder season” in Las Vegas, so hotel rooms are at some of their lowest prices for the year. Planning to fly into Harry Reid International Airport?
Book on Tuesday, Wednesday, or Saturday to score cheaper flights! Winter is also a great time for camping in Death Valley.
You can find accommodations by staying in the national park. You’ll find everything from tent cabins to RV villages, to first-class resorts!
Some exceptions are Christmas and New Year’s, Martin Luther King Day weekend, and President’s Day weekend. Lodging in Las Vegas will be more expensive these days. Be sure to book a reservation if you plan to camp at the National Park.
Worst Time to Visit Death Valley
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The worst time to visit Death Valley is in the summer, as the months of July and August are too hot to enjoy most outdoor activities.
Some of the best experiences at Death Valley are hiking, camping, and cycling. The National Park Service says there are nine must-see locations for gorgeous vistas and epic photos.
You’ll want to visit when you can get to them all. With temperatures topping 116 degrees, it’s dangerous to be outdoors. Sunblock and gallons of water may not be enough to keep you from wilting under that heat.
The hotel rooms are cheaper in Las Vegas during summer except for holidays, but the savings may not be worth the sweat.
One way to enjoy Death Valley in the withering heat is to tour by car. There are thousands of miles of roads within Death Valley National Park. You can enjoy many beautiful vistas while limiting your exposure to direct heat and sun.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Now you’re savvy to the best times to visit Death Valley you know some insider tips for making the most of your trip. Here are a few more common questions and answers for enjoying Death Valley.
Is Death Valley hot in May?
Yes! While May is a mild-weathered month for most of the US, in Death Valley, the thermometer is already topping 100 degrees. The dry heat of the desert takes hold early in the day. If you’re an early riser who can enjoy some outdoor time before the sun gets to work, a trip in May might be a good option.
When you plan a Spring vacation to Death Valley, March and April have more moderate temperatures. The highs in April hover around 90 degrees. It’s still hot and sunny, but not to the point of being dangerous.
Is Death Valley open in June?
Yes, it stays open all year! With summer temperatures well over 100 degrees (sometimes as high as 134) it’s no wonder some would assume that Death Valley is closed for the season. The resorts, ranches, and RV sites also remain open all year. You can choose accommodations from first-class resorts to tent cabins when you go to Death Valley.
If you’re brave enough to visit Death Valley during summer, prepare to handle exposure to extreme heat and sun. You’ll need sunscreen, water, and a way to create some shade. But be prepared for your plans to change, depending on the heat.
Best Times to Visit Death Valley: Final Thoughts
So, what’s the best time to visit Death Valley? March and April are prime months for the best weather and low-priced hotel rooms. You might get to see the profuse bloom of wildflowers in late March or early April.
No matter when you decide to go, we’re sure you’ll fall in love with the spectacular views and incredible outdoor activities.