While we did not visit all four of these Death Valley spots in one day, it certainly could be done for the time-crunched tourist.
Badwater Basin
Badwater Basin is located about 15 miles south on Badwater Basin Rd out of Furnace Creek. At 279 feet below sea level, the basin is the lowest point in North America.
This vast salt flat offers an easy 1.8 mile out-and-back walk across Death Valley's floor. Although heavily trafficked, this beautiful spot is worth the time to explore, particularly at sunrise or sunset.
Natural Bridge
The 1.5 mile bumpy dirt road to the Natural Bridge is just a few minutes drive north of Badwater Basin and a little under 15 miles south of Furnace Creek via Badwater Basin Rd.
The easy hike to the bridge is under a mile of gradual upward slope on gravel. You can venture past the bridge for about another half of a mile. It's a worthy short hike with plenty of dramatic rock formations and dry waterfalls.
9
Artist's Drive
Artist's Drive is about 10 miles south of Furnace Creek on Badwater Basin Rd. This 9 mile drive passes through some of the most unique scenery in Death Valley. Artist's Palette, where the mountainsides are vibrantly colored by mineral deposits, is a highlight of this drive.
There are places along this route to pull over for photos and get out of the car to enjoy some spectacular views.
This is one of those times where a photo doesn't do nature justice.
Zabriskie Point
Zabriskie Point is located about 5 miles from Furnace Creek off CA-190E.
A short walk up a paved hill is all that is needed to take in the outrageous panoramic views from this point.
