Death Valley Walking & Hiking Tour
4 days
3 nights
Activity Levels 1-3
Casual Hotels
Death Valley Walking & Hiking Tour
4 days
3 nights
Activity Levels 1-3
Casual Hotels
2026: Feb-Mar, Oct-Nov
Desert Wonders in California's Otherworldly National Park
A world of contradictions. From vibrant Red Rock and Mosaic Canyons to starkly named Dante’s View and Desolation Canyon. That’s the nature of the desert. This valley, beautiful and barren. Yet so alive.
Highlights
- Red Rock Canyon’s vividly painted cliffs and rock formations, created by wind, water and erosion over millions of years
- Adventure into Mosaic Canyon, an outdoor geological museum of dry falls, slots and stunning breccia walls that give the canyon its name
Discover the rippling golden playground of Mesquite Sand Dunes—forge your own path to the highest dune, if you choose!
- Hike through less-visited Desolation Canyon, where citrine- and honey-colored badlands rival the radiance of those of its more well-known neighbor, Artists Palette
- Stargazing—Death Valley is the largest Dark Sky National Park in the country!
Start/End Las Vegas
* Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.
Itinerary
Day 1
Hike in the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, a vibrant desert palace of colorful sandstone cliffs and unique rock formations • Follow a rugged mountain trail through a diversity of vegetation zones, enjoying incredible views across the valley • Relax at the Inn at Death Valley, a natural oasis of freshwater springs, date palm gardens and plenty of vantage points for watching the sunset or the stars.
Nights 1-3
Nestled at the foot of the Funeral Mountains, this historic and recently renovated Mission-style hotel sits almost 200 feet below sea level. (pool, spa)
Day 2
A palette of serpentine narrows, open canyon and dry waterfalls awaits in Mosaic Canyon—scrambling optional! • Visit Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, where the gnarled namesake tree displays both the resilience and unique beauty to be found in this harsh environment • Hike to the high dune for vast blue-sky views over the shifting sands • Check out Death Valley icons, Artist’s Palette and Badwater Basin • Don’t miss the chance to check out the night sky—the park offers some of the best stargazing in the US.
Nights 1-3
Nestled at the foot of the Funeral Mountains, this historic and recently renovated Mission-style hotel sits almost 200 feet below sea level. (pool, spa)
Day 3
Explore Golden Canyon, a slot canyon that you may recognize from the original Star Wars films • Experience the glorious view at Zabriskie Point • Hike to renowned Dante’s View—the place for a spectacular, all-encompassing vista of Death Valley • Find a spot on the hotel’s terrace to enjoy a cool drink and sunset views.
Nights 1-3
Nestled at the foot of the Funeral Mountains, this historic and recently renovated Mission-style hotel sits almost 200 feet below sea level. (pool, spa)
Day 4
Enjoy a relatively relaxed hike in less-visited Desolation Canyon with a few fun little scrambles to keep you on your toes! • Linger over the panoramic vista midway, featuring the Panamint Mountains, including Telescope Peak and Mount Rose Peak • After lunch, say goodbye to Death Valley and hello again to Paradise Alley (a.k.a. Las Vegas).
Nights 1-3
Nestled at the foot of the Funeral Mountains, this historic and recently renovated Mission-style hotel sits almost 200 feet below sea level. (pool, spa)
What's Included
See moreStraight Talk
We want to make sure you're on the trip that's right for you. Every Backroads trip is unique and this one is no exception.
Death Valley is a land of extremes. At times, weather conditions (like heat, cold, high winds, the occasional rainstorm and even snow!) may warrant unexpected changes to our itinerary. In this event, alternate activities will be planned that you’re sure to enjoy.
The Inn at Death Valley received a multimillion-dollar renovation in 2018. It is a grand historical treasure and by far the best place to stay in the Death Valley area. While its location within Death Valley National Park makes it an ideal base for exploring the valley’s many sights, it is also subject to park regulations and oversight. Similar to many national park lodges, service at the Inn at Death Valley can seem slow and casual compared to the high standards of hospitality found on other Backroads trips.
Hotels
Adventure-Ready Hotels
Ideally located with ready access to trip activities, our Casual hotels are also known for their character and charm.
Hotels may vary based on departure. Any variations will be displayed when selecting a departure under Dates & Prices.
Nights 1-3
Casual Hotel
Nestled at the foot of the Funeral Mountains, this historic and recently renovated Mission-style hotel sits almost 200 feet below sea level. (pool, spa)
Gallery
Dates & Prices
Dates & Prices
Click on dates for pricing, itinerary variations (if any) and to book your trip. Price is per person, double occupancy in USD.
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