Death Valley Panoramic Road

The Death Valley Panoramic Road trip is a 210km route starting in Death Valley Junction, United States and ending in Olancha, United States. This one-day trip is best taken during spring or autumn when the weather is moderate and the landscapes are at their most vibrant. You can expect excellent road conditions throughout the drive, and you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the valley and its surrounding mountains. This road trip is suitable for all drivers, and with a moderate budget you can experience a very high level of adventure and create unforgettable memories.

Death Valley Junction is a small town in the United States, located in eastern California, and is the perfect starting point for the "Death Valley Panoramic Road" road trip. It is close to the National Park of the same name, which is known for its desert landscapes and extreme temperatures, making it a great place to explore and discover. The town of Death Valley Junction itself has a number of interesting sights to see, including the Amargosa Opera House and Hotel, which has a rich history and was once used as a theatre and hotel back in the day. There is also the China Ranch Date Farm, an oasis in the desert which offers unique local produce, and the Harmony Borax Works, a former borax mine that offers a glimpse into the past. For travelers arriving by air, the closest international airport is Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS), which offers a range of car rentals to make the journey to Death Valley Junction easier. From there, you can take the scenic route to explore the desert and all it has to offer, ultimately reaching Death Valley Junction at the start of your journey. With its unique desert landscape and fascinating history, Death Valley Junction is the perfect starting point for a road trip on the "Death Valley Panoramic Road," offering a great way to explore the region and discover the beauty and culture the area has to offer.

Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Death Valley Junction to Olancha! This 131 mile drive will take you less than 3 hours and will bring you through some of the most scenic roads in the country. Along the way, you'll pass by some of the most interesting places to visit, including the ghost town of Ballarat, the Panamint Valley, and the Alabama Hills. Be sure to keep an eye out for gas stations along the way, as there may be a lack of them. As this is only one stage of your road trip, make sure to check the Itinerary for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your journey!

Olancha, California, is a small town located in the Southern part of the state, the perfect ending point for the amazing "Death Valley Panoramic Road" road trip. This amazing road trip goes from the town of Lone Pine to Olancha, and provides amazing views of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, the Owens Valley, and the expansive desert of Death Valley National Park. Olancha is a great place for visitors to explore, with interesting attractions like the Olancha Dunes, the Olancha Petroglyphs and the remains of a historic cabin. The Olancha Dunes are an amazing spot in the desert, with miles of sand and sandstone formations. The Olancha Petroglyphs are a collection of ancient rock art, created by the Paiute and Shoshone tribes. And the remains of the historic cabin provide a glimpse into the past of this small town. For those traveling by car, the town of Olancha is located just a few hours from the major cities of Los Angeles and Las Vegas. If you're flying, the closest international airport is the Fresno International Airport (FAT). No matter how you get there, Olancha is the perfect ending point for the amazing "Death Valley Panoramic Road" road trip. With its amazing attractions and amazing views, Olancha is sure to provide you with an amazing adventure.

Before you set off

The Death Valley Panoramic Road Trip is a spectacular 210km (130-mile) journey that stretches from Death Valley Junction to Olancha in California, USA. Famed for its remarkable desert landscapes, this Trip provides an incredible opportunity to witness the beauty of the largest national park in the contiguous United States.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

This route takes you through some of the most iconic and stunning locations in Death Valley National Park. Notable sights include:

• Zabriskie Point: With its surreal, undulating landscapes, Zabriskie Point offers a view of the badlands that is particularly striking at sunrise or sunset.
• Scotty's Castle: This grand Spanish-style mansion has a rich history and is an architectural wonder, although it is currently closed for tours due to flood damage with restoration efforts underway.
• Badwater Basin: Standing at 282 feet below sea level, Badwater Basin is the lowest point in North America and features a vast expanse of salt flats.
• Devil's Golf Course: An expansive area where large salt crystals form jagged formations, it's so rugged that `only the devil could play golf on such rough links.`

Best Time to Go:

Spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November) are ideal for visiting Death Valley. The temperatures are more pleasant during these months, with wildflowers blooming in spring and cooler, comfortable weather in the fall.

Potential Risks:

Death Valley is renowned for its extreme summer heat, with temperatures often exceeding 120°F (49°C). It's crucial to carry plenty of water, have a well-maintained vehicle, and stay informed about weather conditions.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

Although possible to drive through in a day, to fully appreciate the park's wonders, consider a multi-day Trip. Also, note that cell service can be spotty, so plan accordingly. Entrance fees apply for Death Valley National Park, and the funds go toward preserving this unique ecosystem.

A good choice for:

Embarking on the Death Valley Panoramic Road Trip is an adventure that promises awe-inspiring sights and the chance to discover the stark beauty of one of the harshest environments on the planet. It's a must-do for nature lovers and those seeking to explore the extremes of the American landscape.

Interesting Facts:

• Death Valley holds the record for the highest recorded air temperature on Earth at 134°F (56.7°C), measured on July 10, 1913.
• Despite its name and extreme weather, Death Valley supports a diversity of life, including endemic species like the Death Valley pupfish.
• The valley's landscape has been shaped significantly by volcanic activity and erosion, creating its famous sand dunes, canyons, and unique geological features.
• It's not just a natural wonder; Death Valley has a rich human history from Native American inhabitants to the boom-and-bust era of mining towns like Rhyolite.