Death Valley National Park Hiking Trails

Only Telescope Peak & Wildrose Peak have maintained hiking trails. These are the only hikes recommended in summer due to the extreme heat at lower elevations. The rest of the suggested overnight hikes are cross-country routes. Mileages can be deceiving, so allow plenty of time for these trips. Purchase topographic maps at the Visitor Center.

Check with a park ranger at the visitor center or at a ranger station to fill out a voluntary backcountry Camping permit before departing on the following trips. Solo hikers may also fill out a Solo Hiker Form if they wish to arrange a safety check-in. At the very least, let someone know where you are going and your estimated time of return.

In temperatures over 90 hiking can be especially hazardous. During hot spring, summer or fall months one gallon of water per person per day is the minimum you should carry. Many of the springs in Death Valley are either dry or have been contaminated by burros, so do not rely on them.

Only Telescope and Wildrose Peaks have maintained hiking trails. These are the only hikes recommended in summer due to the extreme heat at lower elevations. The rest of the suggested overnight hikes are cross-country routes. Mileages can be deceiving, so allow plenty of time for these trips. Purchase topographic maps at the visitor center.

Wildrose Peak at 9,064 feet is well worth visiting especially if your time is limited or when winter storms prevent hiking the Telescope Peak trail. The trail goes through a pinyon pine and juniper forest with spectacular views available beyond the two mile point. Backcountry camping is allowed two miles past the trailhead.

Length: 4.2 miles, one-way.
Starting Point: Charcoal Kilns parking area, upper Wildrose Canyon Road.
Description: A good high peak to climb (9,064 ft.). Trail begins at north end of kilns with an elevation gain of 2,200 ft. Spectacular views beyond 2 mile point. Steep grade for last mile.

Telescope Peak at 11,049 feet is the highest point in Death Valley National Park. The elevation gain from the valley floor to the summit is over 11,300 feet. This extreme elevation change is exceeded in the United States by Mt. Rainier at 11,600 feet, Mt. Fairweather in Glacier Bay National Park at 15,300 feet, and Mt. McKinley's north slope at 17,000 feet.

Length: 7 miles, one-way
Starting Point: Mahogany Flat Campground, upper Wildrose Canyon Road. Rough, steep road after Charcoal Kilns.
Description: Strenuous trail to highest peak in the park (11,049 ft.) with a 3,000 ft. elevation gain. Ancient bristlecone pines appear just above the 10,000 ft. level. The summit rewards you with spectacular views ranging from Badwater, the lowest point in the Western Hemisphere to the east, to Mt. Whitney, the highest point in the lower 48 United States to the west. Climbing this peak in the winter requires ice axe and crampons, and is only advised for experienced climbers. Telescope Peak is usually snow-free by June. Don't forget that the high altitude may slow you down. The trail will pass through pinyon and limber pine forests, with ancient bristlecone pines predominating near the summit. Backcountry camping is allowed two miles beyond the end of the road. Please fill out a voluntary Backcountry Camping Permit at the visitor center or any ranger station. This trail is usually snow-free from early May until mid-November and during this time may be hiked by anyone in reasonably good condition. Hiking boots are recommended.

Snow and ice usually make this trail too hazardous for all but well-equipped climbers during the winter months from mid-November until mid-April. For safety it may be necessary to avoid the beginning of the trail and stay along the ridges. Climbers should be experienced and equipped with ice axes, crampons, winter clothing, boots, ropes and be prepared for sub-freezing weather. Winter climbers are asked for their own safety to check in at the Wildrose Ranger Station before and after climbing. During winter the road above the Charcoal Kilns is often closed by snow, adding 3 miles to the round-trip distance of the hike.

Bikes are only allowed on roads open to automobile traffic. Roads listed on old maps may no longer be in existence. Check at the Visitor Center for current road conditions. Bikes are not allowed to travel cross-country or on hiking trails. They are allowed on the hundreds of miles of dirt and paved roads.

Avoid biking in canyons if there is a storm approaching. Sunglasses, first aid kit, proper clothing and extra food and water are recommended for a safe trip.