Death Valley National Park is all about extremes. Famous for the highest temperature ever recorded anywhere in the world (a sizzling 134 degrees in July 1936) and as the driest spot in North America, from autumn into spring Death Valley is inviting to explore. Explore Death Valley National Park, home to dramatic desert landscapes, scenic drives, hiking, and stargazing. Learn where Death Valley is, why it’s famous, and plan your visit. Death Valley National Park is a national park of the United States that straddles the California – Nevada border, east of the Sierra Nevada. The park boundaries include Death Valley, the northern section of Panamint Valley, the southern section of Eureka Valley and most of Saline Valley. From when to visit to what to do and where to eat, here's everything you need to know about visiting Death Valley National Park. Yet, each extreme has a striking contrast. Towering peaks are frosted with winter snow. Rare rainstorms bring vast fields of wildflowers. Lush oases harbor tiny fish and refuge for wildlife and humans. Despite its morbid name, a great diversity of life thrives in Death Valley. Lying mostly in Inyo County, California, near the border of California and Nevada, in the Great Basin, east of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Death Valley constitutes much of Death Valley National Park and is the principal feature of the Mojave and Colorado Deserts Biosphere Reserve. Discover the top things to do in Death Valley National Park, from salt flats and canyons to sand dunes and viewpoints, plus tips from my own experience. 20 best things to do in Death Valley National Park, including Racetrack Playa and the best hikes. How much time you should spend here. Lodging Whether you are looking to stay in a luxury hotel or a simple tent cabin, Death Valley has a range of options available. Plan your time, budget and activities in Death Valley National Park with this visitors' guide to average costs, when to go, and the best things to do.