Las Vegas to Death Valley and Beyond
Route Distance: Up to 370 miles Suggested Time: 3 to 4 days
Nothing is more extreme than a road trip from Las Vegas to Death Valley National Park—or rather, nothing has more extremes. Along this journey, you’ll encounter the lowest point in North America and the nearly 12,000-foot peak of Mt. Charleston, the highest and lowest elevations in the Lower 48.
Get ready to explore some of Nevada’s most mesmerizing sites, including a bewitching ghost town, breathtaking national and state parks, and quirky roadside attractions. This adventure takes you far from the neon glitz of the Las Vegas Strip into a world of stark beauty and rich history.
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Leg 1: Wake Up in Vegas, Sleep in Pahrump (130 miles)
Red Rock Canyon & Spring Mountain Ranch State Park
Start your journey by heading west to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, just 30 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip. Take the 13-mile scenic drive or stretch your legs on one of the stunning hiking trails. Passes are $20 or use your America the Beautiful Pass. Be sure to stop at the visitors center to learn more about the park. I always have to stop at visitor centers and get a magnet, but they have quite a few nice things here you may be interested in purchasing.
Pro tip: Timed reservations are required from October 1 through May 31, so plan ahead!
If time allows, stop at Spring Mountain Ranch State Park, adjacent to Red Rock Canyon. Tour historic structures, including an 1860s blacksmith shop and the Sandstone Cabin, home to Nevada’s early settlers. There are plenty of hiking trails here, including Lake Harriet loop. It’s also a great place for a shaded picnic lunch before continuing your trip. Park fees are $10 for Nevada residents, $15 for non-residents. You can also use your Nevada State annual park pass at this park.
Mountain Springs Saloon
As you drive toward Pahrump, make a quick stop at Mountain Springs Saloon, a quirky biker bar covered in dollar bills. Grab a cold drink and soak in the offbeat atmosphere.
Pahrump
Just 60 miles west of Las Vegas, Pahrump is your stop for the night. Explore the local wineries, a meadery/cidery, or check out a uniquely offbeat attraction—a mom-and-pop coffin shop! Feeling lucky? Try your hand at one of Pahrump’s casinos before settling in for the night.
Leg 2: Pahrump to Beatty via Death Valley (170 miles)
Death Valley National Park
Head west to the ominously named Death Valley National Park, where stark landscapes reveal incredible natural beauty. Enter via Highway 190, making a beeline for Dante’s View, which offers a stunning vista over the Badwater Basin salt flats, the lowest point in North America and on clear days, a view of Mt. Whitney, the highest peak in the Lower 48.
Stop at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center to get your bearings before spending the day exploring the park’s many famous landmarks.
Pro tip: Plan your route ahead of time, the park is massive, and having a game plan will keep you from feeling overwhelmed.
After a day of desert exploration, head to Beatty for a well-earned rest. While there, you can enjoy the friendly burros. Please don’t feed the burros. First, people’s food isn’t good for them, and if they get accustomed to being fed, they won’t go forage for their natural food sources. If you love chili, then be sure to stop at Happy Burro Chili & Beer for dinner.
Leg 3: Beatty to Las Vegas (via Rhyolite & Mt. Charleston)
Rhyolite Ghost Town
Before leaving Beatty, make a detour to Rhyolite, one of Nevada’s most photogenic ghost towns. Wander among the ruins of this once-bustling mining town, where you’ll find the famous Tom Kelly’s Bottle House and eerie outdoor art at the Goldwell Open Air Museum.
Beatty’s Quirky Attractions
While in town, stop at Death Valley Nut & Candy, Nevada’s largest candy store, for some road trip snacks before heading back toward Las Vegas. For information about these and other quirky road trip attractions in Nevada check out our blog.
Spring Mountains National Recreation Area & Mt. Charleston
Before returning to the city lights, take a scenic detour through the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area. If visiting in spring or summer, enjoy hiking and lush alpine scenery. In winter, this area transforms into a snowy wonderland with skiing and other winter sports.
Final Thoughts
Nevada is full of incredible landscapes, ghost towns, and outdoor adventures, far beyond the bright lights of Las Vegas. Whether you’re drawn to stunning desert vistas, quirky roadside attractions, or rich Wild West history, this road trip offers something for every traveler. If you’re looking for other road trips in Nevada or another state, go to Roadtrippers.com for help planning your dream trip. Use code BTR5QTP to save $5.
We give you information and tips that we learn along the way to help you make informed decisions when planning your vacation. We hope to encourage you to find your adventure, have fun and make some amazing memories!