Death Valley holds the record for the highest temperature ever recorded on Earth—134°F (56.7°C) in 1913. Despite this, it still draws curious visitors year-round.
While it’s famous for its scorching heat, Death Valley can also get quite cold in winter. Temperatures can drop below freezing, especially at higher elevations like Dante’s View.
One of Death Valley’s most mysterious phenomena is the "sailing stones" that move across the desert floor, leaving tracks behind. Scientists believe thin layers of ice and wind move these rocks across the smooth mud, but the sight is still awe-inspiring.
Badwater Basin, located in Death Valley, is the lowest point in North America at 282 feet (86 meters) below sea level. You can stand on the salt flats and marvel at how the land dips far below the ocean’s surface.
Despite its dry reputation, Death Valley occasionally bursts into life with wildflowers after rare heavy rains. Known as a "superbloom," this rare event transforms the desert into a sea of color.
Thousands of years ago, Death Valley was home to a vast lake called Lake Manly. Today, only the dry lakebed remains, but you can still imagine the ancient waters that once filled this desert basin.
Even in such a harsh environment, Death Valley is home to diverse wildlife, including bighorn sheep, roadrunners, and even small fish known as pupfish, which survive in salty water pools.