Death Valley National Park: A Dog Friendly Version

We visited Death Valley National Park in March 2022 when Axel and I were living in San Diego. March was the perfect time to go because it was chilly in the morning but still got hot in the middle of the day. Like most National Parks, we had to get a little creative with where we went. Here are our recommendations to make the most out of your trip with your pup!

The Entrance Fee is $30 per vehicle and it’s valid for 7 days or $55 for a Death Valley Annual Pass. America the Beautiful Pass is accepted. I suggest at least 2 full days if visiting with your pup.

**Dante’s View**

A must do for sunrise- The highest point, looking over Death Valley’s lowest point (Badwater Basin) so it was COLD. But probably my favorite part of our whole trip, felt like we were in Star Wars- which if you are a fan of the movies you know quite a few filming locations are in Death Valley! This is a park and view type of stop, but that is why it’s perfect for sunrise. Step to the right or left of the viewing platform for perfect photos and your own space for yourself and your pup.

**20 Mule Team Canyon**

A one way loop dirt road (which means it's dog friendly!), we pulled off to the side at the beginning of the road and took off of foot. It’s 2.5 miles one way, so you can get a great little hike out of this one! Even in March it was starting to get warm FAST.

**Titus Canyon Road**

A 27 mile, one way dirt road that drives through gorgeous canyons. There are plenty of places to pull over to take pictures or walk for a bit, but it also gets tight in some places. I wouldn’t recommend it unless you have a high clearance vehicle and 4 wheel drive is recommended depending on recent weather. Throughout this canyon there are petroglyphs, mountain views, and a small old mining town.

**Ubehebe Crater**

I would head out here after Titus Canyon Road, specifically for sunset. We were the only car out here for sunset- probably because it’s out on the edge of the park but it made for a very peaceful night. The wind tunnels off the crater and make it very cold, so bring plenty of layers. Dog’s aren’t allowed to walk all the way around the crater but you can walk on the side closest to the cars.

**Artists Drive/Artists Palette**

Artists Drive is a one way drive to see some gorgeous rock formations. Artists Palette has a viewing platform that is perfectly dog friendly- you just won’t be able to walk down onto Artists Palette with your pup.

Where to Stay: Stovepipe Wells. Dog friendly rooms with no additional dog fee. It’s at one side the park, so you’ll be doing a lot of driving BUT its has two restaurants, a convenience store, a gas station and a pool. I was at Death Valley during one of that massive gas price spikes, so gas was about $8 per gallon here. On a normal day it would probably be cheaper but I wouldn’t expect it to be too much cheaper. There is one other gas station in Death Valley, but other than that you are hours from the next gas station and town- so be prepared to spend some money on gas.

Where to Eat: Badwater Saloon and Toll Road restaurant were both great food options. For a solo traveler like me, I usually bring something like a bar or snack for breakfast then grab carry out for meals so i’m not leaving Axel for very long. I dropped Axel off in our room during our midday break and walked not even five minutes to Badwater Saloon to order a burger to go. While that was cooking, I walked to the general store and grabbed a beer (you can drink it outside as long as you keep it covered in its paper bag). Went back for my burger, grabbed Axel to sit outside in the shade for lunch.

Axel’s Pup Tip: Wake up early for sunrise/morning hikes. Head back to Stovepipe Wells for lunch and a much needed sun & heat break. Head back out for an evening adventure and to watch sunset.

.

Axel’s Packing List: Ruffwear Dog Boots, Dog Sunscreen, Collapsible Dog Bowl, Nalgene Water Bottle, Owala Water Bottle, Natural Dog Company Treats, Kurgo Dog Food Travel Bag