Top Rated Attractions in Death Valley

The highest point in Death Valley National Park, Telescope Peak is a formidable peak of the Panamint Range. The peak is named so because it offers seemingly endless views of breathtaking mountains, Mount Whitney and Charleston Peak in Nevada. Though a challenging climb, some dare to reach the summit of the peak with the reward of mesmerizing views.

Death Valley National Park is famed for its extreme arid temperatures. While it's difficult to believe, much can survive the sweltering temperatures, which go up to 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Centigrade), the park's desert wildlife proves otherwise. Home to the Bighorn Sheep, Coyote and the evergreen creosote bush, the desert changes through the seasons and offers up a burst of colors in spring when the wildflowers bloom spectacularly. Top scenic spots include Zabriskie Point, overlooking the multi-hued Furnace Creek, otherworldly Twenty Mule Team Canyon and the badlands, and the desolate Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes.

Yet another interesting site that's a part of the Death Valley National Park, Golden Canyon is a prominent destination for nature walks. A hike here takes visitors through a maze-like landscape consisting of canyons and undulating hills that sport a vivid yellow hue. The color seems to appear golden under the bright sun hence the name of the place. Red Cathedral, a geological formation that consists of cliffs with red-colored rocks marks the end of the hike.

Located at a height of 6,433 feet (1960 meters), Aguereberry Point is a prominent viewpoint known to attract a large number of tourists. Named after Jean Pierre Aguereberry, panoramic views of Furnace Creek, Mount Charleston and salt flats of Badwater Basin can be enjoyed from here.

Located just off Highway 190, Zabriskie Point offers stunning, panoramic views of the surrounding Death Valley National Park. Part of the Amargosa Range, visitors to Zabriskie Point get the opportunity to gaze at the wildly eroded, colorful badlands of the national park. However, note that the best time to visit this seemingly other-worldly place is during sunrise or sunset when you not only avoid the hot midday sun but also get the opportunity to see the entire valley swathed in beautiful yellow and golden hues.

Also referred to as Charcoal Kilns, the Wildrose Charcoal kilns are regarded as one of Death Valley National Park's most popular historical features. Dating back to 1877 and credited to the Modock Consolidated Mining Company, the kilns were used to fuel the ore extraction and smelting operations in the mines of the Argus Range. Rising to a height of 25 feet, the masonry structures are well worth a visit.