Ultimate Death Valley National Park Travel Guide

Ultimate Death Valley National Park Travel Guide: Land of Extremes

Table of Contents

• Introduction: The Hottest, Driest, Lowest
• How to Get There
• Where to Stay
• What to See
• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Shopping
• Culture & Local Life
• Practical Information
• Hidden Gems
• Itineraries
• Nearby Destinations
• Frequently Asked Questions

Introduction: The Hottest, Driest, Lowest

Death Valley National Park is a land of superlatives that defies imagination. Holding the records for the hottest temperature ever recorded on Earth (134°F in 1913), the driest location in North America, and the lowest point in the Western Hemisphere at Badwater Basin (282 feet below sea level), this vast wilderness challenges and rewards in equal measure. Spanning 3.4 million acres across California and Nevada, Death Valley isn't just a park—it's an experience that redefines your understanding of beauty, resilience, and the raw power of nature.

What makes Death Valley truly extraordinary is its paradox of extremes. While the name suggests a barren wasteland, the reality is a stunning diversity of landscapes: sculpted sand dunes that shift with the wind, multi-hued volcanic craters, mysterious sailing stones that move across playas, lush palm-fringed oases, and snow-capped peaks rising above salt flats. The park's unique identity is forged from this contrast—a place where life not only survives but thrives in conditions that seem utterly inhospitable.

The vibe of Death Valley is one of profound solitude and otherworldly beauty. Visitors often describe feeling like they've landed on another planet, with landscapes so surreal they challenge perception. Mornings bring ethereal light that paints the Panamint Range in rose and gold, days reveal the stark beauty of sun-baked earth, and nights offer some of the darkest skies in America, where the Milky Way shines with breathtaking clarity. It's a place that demands respect, rewards preparation, and leaves an indelible mark on your soul.

Beyond the extremes, Death Valley possesses a subtle magic that reveals itself to those who linger. The brief but spectacular spring wildflower blooms, the intricate patterns of salt polygons at Badwater, the way sunset transforms the Artist's Palette into a living canvas—these moments create a travel experience unlike any other. This isn't just a park to check off your list; it's a destination that invites contemplation and reveals its secrets slowly, patiently, to those willing to listen.

How to Get There

Reaching Death Valley requires planning, as its remote location in the Mojave Desert means services are limited and distances between amenities can be substantial. The park has several entrances, each serving different regions and offering varying levels of accessibility.

Nearest Airports

Airport	Distance to Furnace Creek	Drive Time	Airlines & Notes
Las Vegas (Harry Reid International)	120 miles	2 hours	Major carriers, most popular access point, rental cars available
Ontario International (California)	230 miles	4 hours	Good alternative to LAX, less traffic
Los Angeles (LAX)	270 miles	4.5-5 hours	Major international airport, heavy traffic
Mammoth Yosemite Airport	180 miles	3.5 hours	Seasonal flights, scenic eastern approach

Driving Times from Major Cities

From Southern California

• Los Angeles: 4-5 hours
• San Diego: 5-6 hours
• Palm Springs: 4 hours
• Ridgecrest: 2 hours

From Nevada & Northern California

• Las Vegas: 2 hours
• Reno: 7 hours
• San Francisco: 8 hours
• Bishop: 2 hours

Local Transportation Options

Within Death Valley, transportation options are limited and require advance planning:

• Personal Vehicle: Essential for exploring the park. High-clearance vehicles recommended for many scenic roads.
• RV Travel: Popular option, but be aware of size limitations on some roads and limited dumping stations.
• Park Shuttles: Limited seasonal shuttle service between Furnace Creek and Stovepipe Wells.
• Guided Tours: Various companies offer guided van tours from Las Vegas and within the park.
• Bicycles: Possible for experienced cyclists, but challenging due to extreme heat, steep grades, and long distances between services.

Pro Tip: Always start with a full tank of gas—services are limited and distances between stations can exceed 50 miles. Fill up in Beatty, Pahrump, or Ridgecrest before entering the park. Gas prices within the park are significantly higher.

Where to Stay

Accommodations in Death Valley range from historic luxury to rustic camping, each offering a different perspective on the desert experience. Due to the park's popularity and limited options, reservations should be made 6-12 months in advance, especially for peak season (November-April).

Luxury Accommodations

• The Inn at Death Valley: Historic 4-diamond resort with spring-fed pool, fine dining, and elegant casitas
• Oasis at Death Valley: Recently renovated with date palm groves and luxury amenities
• Spring Mountain Ranch (outside park): Historic ranch near Las Vegas with upscale accommodations

Mid-Range Options

• The Ranch at Death Valley: Family-friendly resort with restaurants, pool, and activities
• Stovepipe Wells Village Hotel: Comfortable rooms near sand dunes with casual dining
• Panamint Springs Resort: Western-style motel near the western entrance

Budget-Friendly Stays

• Park Campgrounds: Nine campgrounds ranging from $16-36/night
• Stovepipe Wells Campground: First-come, first-served dry camping
• Texas Spring Campground: Beautiful setting near Furnace Creek

Family-Friendly Options

• The Ranch at Death Valley: Pool, ice cream parlor, and family activities
• Furnace Creek Campground: Full hookups available for RVs
• Stovepipe Wells: Pool and casual atmosphere perfect for families

Unique Stays

• Wildrose Campground: Higher elevation for cooler temperatures
• Backcountry Camping: Free dispersed camping with permit
• Beatty or Pahrump Hotels: Gateway towns with casino hotels and lower prices

What to See: Main Attractions

Death Valley's attractions showcase the incredible diversity and scale of this unique landscape. From the lowest point in North America to panoramic mountain vistas, each site offers a different perspective on this land of extremes.

Badwater Basin

At 282 feet below sea level, Badwater Basin is the lowest point in North America and one of the park's most iconic destinations. The vast salt flats extend for miles, creating a stunning white landscape that cracks into fascinating hexagonal patterns. A boardwalk leads from the parking area to the salt flat, where visitors can walk out onto the crystalline surface. The adjacent Black Mountains tower dramatically overhead, providing a striking contrast to the flat basin. Don't miss the "Sea Level" sign high on the cliffside opposite the basin—a powerful visual reminder of just how low you're standing.

Artist's Palette

This breathtaking geological feature on Artist's Drive showcases nature's artistic prowess. The hills display a rainbow of colors created by volcanic deposits rich in various minerals: iron produces red and pink, mica creates green, manganese gives purple, and decomposed tuff lends yellow hues. The best time to visit is late afternoon when the setting sun intensifies the colors, making them appear to glow from within. The 9-mile one-way scenic drive through this area offers numerous pullouts for photography and contemplation of this natural masterpiece.

Zabriskie Point

Arguably the most famous sunrise spot in Death Valley, Zabriskie Point offers panoramic views of dramatically eroded badlands. The viewpoint overlooks Golden Canyon and the undulating hills of the Amargosa Range, which glow with intense color during the golden hours. The landscape was formed by sediments from Furnace Creek Lake, which dried up 5 million years ago, then was sculpted by water and wind erosion. Early morning brings photographers from around the world, but the view remains spectacular throughout the day as changing light creates new patterns and shadows across the textured terrain.

Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes

These classic star dunes near Stovepipe Wells Village create the iconic Death Valley landscape familiar from countless photographs. Covering 14 square miles, the dunes rise up to 100 feet high and provide endless opportunities for exploration and photography. The best times to visit are sunrise and sunset, when the low light creates dramatic shadows and highlights the dunes' elegant curves. Look for tracks of kangaroo rats, lizards, and other desert creatures that call this sandy environment home. The highest dunes are about a 1-mile hike from the parking area.

Dante's View

Perched at 5,475 feet above sea level, Dante's View offers the most comprehensive panorama in Death Valley. From this breathtaking vantage point, you can see both the highest and lowest points in the contiguous United States: Telescope Peak (11,049 feet) rises to the west, while Badwater Basin (282 feet below sea level) spreads out directly below. On clear days, the view extends across the entire valley to the Panamint Mountains. The viewpoint is significantly cooler than the valley floor, making it a pleasant escape during hot weather. Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical.

Ubehebe Crater

This massive volcanic crater, nearly half a mile wide and 600 feet deep, provides dramatic evidence of Death Valley's fiery past. Ubehebe (pronounced YOU-bee-HEE-bee) was formed approximately 2,100 years ago when rising magma met groundwater, creating a massive steam explosion. The resulting crater exposes colorful geological layers dating back millions of years. Adventurous visitors can hike down to the crater floor or around the rim, while those seeking less strenuous activity can enjoy the view from multiple overlooks. Little Hebe Crater, a smaller adjacent crater, shows evidence of more recent volcanic activity.

Things to Do: Activities

From challenging backcountry adventures to leisurely scenic drives, Death Valley offers activities that showcase its diverse landscapes and unique environments. Proper preparation is essential for all activities due to the extreme conditions.

Scenic Drives

• Artist's Drive: 9-mile one-way route through colorful hills
• Twenty Mule Team Canyon: Unpaved but accessible road through badlands
• Wildrose Peak Road: High-elevation drive to charcoal kilns
• Titus Canyon Road: One-way backcountry route (high clearance recommended)
• Dante's View Road: Steep climb to spectacular overlook

Hiking Trails

• Golden Canyon: Easy 2-mile round trip through colorful canyon
• Natural Bridge Canyon: 2-mile round trip to natural arch
• Mosaic Canyon: 4-mile round trip through polished marble
• Telescope Peak: 14-mile strenuous hike to highest point
• Salt Creek Interpretive Trail: Boardwalk through unique desert wetland

Ranger Programs

• Evening Programs: Night sky talks and natural history presentations
• Guided Walks: Ranger-led hikes to various park features
• Junior Ranger Program: Educational activities for children
• Star Parties: Seasonal astronomy events with telescopes
• History Talks: Programs on mining and human history

Seasonal Activities

• Wildflower Viewing (Spring): Spectacular blooms after wet winters
• Night Sky Viewing: Some of darkest skies in USA, perfect for stargazing
• Fall & Spring Hiking: Ideal temperatures for longer trails
• Winter Exploration: Comfortable daytime temperatures for sightseeing
• Photography Workshops: Seasonal workshops for all skill levels

Historical Sites

• Harmony Borax Works: Remains of 1880s borax mining operation
• Keane Wonder Mine: Historic gold mine with tramway (check accessibility)
• Charcoal Kilns: Well-preserved 1870s beehive-shaped kilns
• Scotty's Castle: Spanish-style villa (currently closed for repairs)
• Rhyolite Ghost Town: Extensive ruins just outside park boundary

Safety First: Never hike after 10 AM during hot months. Carry at least one gallon of water per person per day. Tell someone your plans. Cell service is unreliable throughout most of the park. Check weather conditions before heading out—flash floods can occur in canyons during rainstorms.

Food & Drink

Dining options in Death Valley are limited but surprisingly diverse, ranging from elegant resort dining to casual family fare. Due to the remote location, prices are higher than in cities, and hours may vary seasonally.

Restaurant	Location	Price Range	Specialties & Atmosphere
The Inn Dining Room	Inn at Death Valley	$$$	Fine dining, seasonal menu, elegant atmosphere, resort casual dress
Last Kind Words Saloon	The Ranch at Death Valley	$$	Steakhouse fare, western theme, live music some evenings
19th Hole	The Ranch at Death Valley	$$	Casual American, burgers, sandwiches, sports bar atmosphere
Stovepipe Wells Restaurant	Stovepipe Wells Village	$$	Family-friendly, basic American fare, breakfast buffet
Panamint Springs Restaurant	Panamint Springs Resort	$$	Casual dining, pizza, burgers, western atmosphere
General Store Deli	Furnace Creek	$	Sandwiches, snacks, grocery items, picnic supplies

Essential Tips for Dining

• Reservations Recommended: For The Inn Dining Room, make reservations well in advance
• Limited Hours: Restaurants may close between lunch and dinner service
• Stock Up: Bring favorite snacks and specialty items from outside the park
• Picnic Options: General stores offer sandwich materials and picnic supplies
• Hydration: Always carry water—restaurants and stores may be far from attractions

Local Specialties

• Date Shakes: Classic desert treat made with local dates
• Southwestern Cuisine: Influences from nearby Mojave communities
• Steak & Game: Hearty meals perfect after a day of exploring
• Microbrews: Local craft beers available at some establishments

Shopping

Shopping in Death Valley focuses on practical supplies, educational materials, and souvenirs that capture the spirit of this unique landscape. Options are limited but offer quality items that reflect the park's natural and cultural history.

Park Gift Shops

• Furnace Creek Visitor Center: Largest selection of books, maps, and educational materials
• Death Valley Natural History Association: Non-profit bookstore with expert staff
• Stovepipe Wells Gift Shop: Basic souvenirs, clothing, and supplies
• Panamint Springs Gift Shop: Unique items focusing on western history

General Stores

• Furnace Creek General Store: Largest selection of groceries and camping supplies
• Stovepipe Wells General Store: Basic groceries, ice, and emergency supplies
• Panamint Springs Resort Store: Limited groceries and camping essentials

Souvenir Ideas

• Geological Specimens: Purchased from approved vendors (never remove natural items)
• Books & Guides: Comprehensive selection on desert ecology and history
• Photography Books: Stunning collections of Death Valley landscapes
• Native American Crafts: Pottery, jewelry, and artwork from local tribes
• Park Apparel: Quality clothing with Death Valley logos and designs

Culture & Local Life

Death Valley's human history is as dramatic as its landscape, spanning thousands of years of Native American presence, mining booms and busts, and the enduring spirit of those who call this harsh environment home.

Native American Heritage

The Timbisha Shoshone have lived in and around Death Valley for at least a thousand years, developing sophisticated knowledge for surviving in this extreme environment. Their name for the valley, "tümpisa," means "rock paint" and refers to the red ochre found in the hills that they used for ceremonial purposes. The tribe maintains a reservation within the park boundaries at Furnace Creek, and their cultural presence remains an important part of Death Valley's identity. Traditional knowledge of water sources, seasonal patterns, and desert plants enabled their survival in this challenging landscape.

Mining History

The 19th and early 20th centuries brought waves of miners seeking fortune in Death Valley's mountains. First came the gold seekers during the 1849 California Gold Rush, who gave the valley its ominous name after difficult crossings. Later, borax mining became the most successful industry, with the famous 20-mule teams hauling borax 165 miles across the desert. Ghost towns like Rhyolite, Skidoo, and Harrisburg testify to the boom-and-bust cycle that characterized Death Valley's mining era. The Harmony Borax Works ruins near Furnace Creek offer a glimpse into this industrial past.

Desert Conservation Ethic

Death Valley represents an ongoing commitment to preserving fragile desert ecosystems. Designated as a national monument in 1933 and a national park in 1994, it protects not just dramatic scenery but delicate biological communities that have adapted to extreme conditions. The park's management balances preservation with access, protecting resources while allowing visitors to experience this unique landscape. This conservation ethic extends to dark sky preservation, with Death Valley being designated a Gold Tier International Dark Sky Park.

Modern Community

The small communities within and around Death Valley maintain a distinctive independent spirit. Park staff, resort employees, and local residents share a deep respect for the desert environment and practical knowledge of living in extreme conditions. The pace of life is generally slow and deliberate, with attention to seasonal changes and weather patterns. Residents tend to be outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate the unique beauty of the desert and the profound solitude it offers.

Practical Information

Visiting Death Valley requires careful planning and preparation. The extreme environment demands respect and proper precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Park Fees & Passes

Pass Type	Cost	Duration
Private Vehicle	$30	7 days
Motorcycle	$25	7 days
Individual (hiker/biker)	$15	7 days
Death Valley Annual Pass	$55	1 year
America the Beautiful Pass	$80	1 year (all federal parks)

Best Times to Visit

Peak Season (November-March)

Pleasant daytime temperatures (60s-70s°F), cool nights. All facilities open. Most crowded, especially holidays.

Shoulder Seasons (April-May & October)

Warm days, comfortable nights. Wildflowers possible in spring. Some facilities may have reduced hours.

Summer (June-September)

Extremely hot (100-120°F+), only for experienced desert travelers. Limited services. Extra precautions essential.

Essential Safety Information

• Heat Safety: Never hike after 10 AM in hot weather. Carry extra water in your vehicle.
• Vehicle Preparation: Check coolant, tires, and air conditioning before visiting.
• Navigation: Carry paper maps—GPS often unreliable, cell service limited.
• Flash Floods: Never enter narrow canyons if rain is forecast nearby.
• Wildlife: Keep distance from wildlife, never feed animals.
• Backcountry Travel: Tell someone your plans, carry emergency supplies.

Emergency Contacts

• Park Emergency Dispatch: 911 or (760) 786-2330
• Death Valley National Park Headquarters: (760) 786-3200
• Road Conditions: (760) 786-2345
• Furnace Creek Medical Clinic: (760) 786-2331
• Nearest Hospital: Southern Inyo Hospital (760) 876-5501

Hidden Gems

Beyond the famous attractions lie quieter corners where you can experience Death Valley's magic without the crowds. These lesser-known spots offer intimate encounters with the park's diverse landscapes and rich history.

Darwin Falls

This surprising year-round waterfall near Panamint Springs creates a lush oasis in the midst of arid mountains. The 1-mile hike follows a stream through a narrow canyon to a 20-foot waterfall surrounded by ferns and cottonwood trees. The contrast between the surrounding desert and this vibrant green sanctuary is breathtaking. The hike involves some rock scrambling and creek crossings, but rewards with one of the park's most unexpected beauties.

Lee Flat Joshua Trees

While most visitors head to the more famous attractions, Lee Flat offers one of the most spectacular Joshua tree forests in the Mojave Desert. Located in the park's southern section, this high-elevation plain features thousands of these strange, beautiful trees set against a backdrop of dramatic mountains. The area receives fewer visitors, offering solitude and exceptional photography opportunities, especially during golden hour.

Eureka Sand Dunes

These remote dunes in the northern part of the park are the tallest in California, rising nearly 700 feet above the valley floor. The journey to reach them is part of the adventure, requiring travel on rough dirt roads. The dunes' relative isolation means you'll likely have them to yourself. They're also famous for "singing" or "booming" sand—a rare phenomenon where the dunes produce musical tones when sand slides down their slopes.

Warm Springs Canyon

This historic site features a series of thermal pools developed into rustic baths by a 1920s entrepreneur. The concrete tubs, fed by natural hot springs, still hold warm water and offer a unique desert soaking experience. The site includes ruins of stone cabins and the ambitious but never-completed resort. Reaching Warm Springs requires a high-clearance vehicle and careful navigation, but rewards with a fascinating glimpse into Death Valley's quirky history.

Aguereberry Point

While Dante's View draws the crowds, Aguereberry Point offers equally spectacular panoramas with far fewer visitors. Located at 6,433 feet in the Panamint Mountains, this viewpoint provides stunning perspectives of Death Valley and the surrounding ranges. The site is named for Pete Aguereberry, a Basque miner who discovered gold here in 1905 and developed the road to this viewpoint so he could enjoy the scenery.

Itineraries

Whether you have a single day or a full week, these sample itineraries help you make the most of your Death Valley visit. Adjust based on the season, your interests, and current conditions.

1-Day Death Valley Highlights

Morning: Sunrise at Zabriskie Point, hike Golden Canyon. Mid-day: Visit Badwater Basin, drive Artist's Drive. Afternoon: Explore Furnace Creek Visitor Center, see Harmony Borax Works. Evening: Sunset at Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, stargazing.

2-Day Comprehensive Visit

Day 1: Morning at Dante's View, hike Desolation Canyon, afternoon at Badwater Basin and Artist's Palette, sunset at Zabriskie Point. Day 2: Sunrise at Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, explore Mosaic Canyon, visit Ubehebe Crater, see Rhyolite Ghost Town.

3-Day Immersive Experience

Day 1: Valley floor highlights—Badwater, Artist's Drive, Golden Canyon, Zabriskie Point sunset. Day 2: Northern area—Ubehebe Crater, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Mosaic Canyon, Stovepipe Wells. Day 3: High country—Wildrose Charcoal Kilns, Aguereberry Point, Panamint Springs.

Family-Friendly Itinerary

• Salt Creek Interpretive Trail (easy boardwalk)
• Harmony Borax Works (historic site with easy access)
• Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes (fun for all ages)
• Furnace Creek Visitor Center (exhibits and Junior Ranger program)
• Badwater Basin (short walk on salt flats)
• Swimming at resort pools

Romantic Getaway

• Sunset at Dante's View
• Fine dining at The Inn
• Stargazing away from developed areas
• Sunrise at Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes
• Private picnic at Padre Crowley Point
• Evening walk at Badwater under full moon

Budget Traveler

• Camp instead of hotel stays
• Prepare your own meals
• Focus on free ranger programs
• Visit in winter for comfortable camping
• Hike instead of paid activities
• Use America the Beautiful Pass for entry

Nearby Destinations

Extend your desert adventure by exploring these remarkable destinations near Death Valley National Park, each offering unique experiences that complement your park visit.

Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge

Just across the Nevada border, this remarkable oasis contains 30 species of plants and animals found nowhere else in the world. The refuge's crystal-clear springs create a stunning contrast with the surrounding desert. Don't miss the boardwalk at Crystal Spring, home to the endangered Devil's Hole pupfish. The refuge offers excellent birdwatching and peaceful nature trails.

Rhyolite Ghost Town

This extensive ghost town just outside the park's eastern boundary was once a thriving gold mining community of 10,000 people. Today, visitors can explore substantial ruins including a school, bank, and railway depot, plus the famous Bottle House built from thousands of beer and medicine bottles. The nearby Goldwell Open Air Museum features fascinating outdoor sculptures set against the desert backdrop.

Alabama Hills Recreation Area

Near Lone Pine, California, this dramatic landscape of eroded rock formations has served as backdrop for hundreds of movies and television shows. The area offers excellent hiking, photography opportunities, and free dispersed camping. Don't miss Mobius Arch, which perfectly frames Mount Whitney in its opening. The nearby Museum of Western Film History provides fascinating context.

Manzanar National Historic Site

This powerful memorial preserves the history of one of ten camps where Japanese Americans were incarcerated during World War II. The excellent visitor center, reconstructed buildings, and self-guided auto tour offer profound insights into this difficult chapter of American history. The site is located in the beautiful Owens Valley with stunning views of the Sierra Nevada.

Red Rock Canyon State Park

About two hours south of Death Valley, this park features dramatic desert cliffs and canyons with spectacular red rock formations. The area's colorful badlands, table mountains, and isolated buttes create a photographer's paradise. The park offers hiking, camping, and excellent wildlife viewing, with particularly beautiful light at sunrise and sunset.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is it really as dangerous as the name "Death Valley" suggests?

While the name sounds ominous, Death Valley is perfectly safe for prepared visitors who respect the environment. The main dangers—extreme heat and dehydration—are easily managed by carrying ample water, avoiding midday hiking in summer, and staying on established trails. With proper precautions, millions of visitors enjoy the park safely each year.

2. Can I visit Death Valley in the summer?

Yes, but summer visits require serious preparation and acceptance of limitations. Focus on sunrise and sunset activities, stay in air-conditioned vehicles during peak heat, and limit hiking to very short distances near your vehicle. Many visitors find the extreme heat fascinating from the safety of their car or resort pool.

3. What should I do if my car breaks down in the park?

Stay with your vehicle—it provides shade and makes you easier to find. Turn on your hazard lights and raise your hood. Use your emergency supplies (which you should always carry) and wait for help. Park rangers patrol main roads regularly. Never attempt to walk for help in hot weather.

4. Are there any plants or animals that are unique to Death Valley?

Yes! Death Valley is home to several endemic species including the Death Valley pupfish, which survives in small isolated springs, the Death Valley sage, and the Death Valley June beetle. The park's extreme isolation has allowed unique evolutionary adaptations in both plants and animals.

5. How do the "sailing stones" at Racetrack Playa move?

This mystery was solved in 2014 when researchers observed the movement firsthand. During winter, thin sheets of ice form on the playa. When this ice breaks up on sunny days, wind pushes the ice sheets, which slowly move the rocks across the slippery mud surface. The movement happens rarely and is rarely witnessed.

6. Can I bring my pet to Death Valley?

Pets are allowed in developed areas, campgrounds, and along roads, but must be leashed at all times. They are not permitted on trails, in wilderness areas, or in public buildings. The extreme heat makes pavement dangerous for paws, and wildlife encounters can be risky. Consider leaving pets at home or in climate-controlled accommodations.

7. What's the best way to photograph Death Valley?

Visit during golden hour (first and last hour of sunlight) when the light is most dramatic. Use a tripod for low-light conditions and star photography. Carry extra batteries as extreme temperatures drain them quickly. A polarizing filter enhances colors and reduces glare. Most importantly, take time to experience the landscape beyond the camera.