AMERICA, ONE BEAUTIFUL ROAD AT A TIME

Death Valley Scenic Byway

California
Take your time. Make a few stops. Enjoy the view.
View from Father Crowley Point · Public Domain. Courtesy of the National Park Service · Photo credits
THE JOURNEY IS THE REASON TO GO

Let the road set the pace.

A gateway to over 3.3 million acres of spectacular scenery, expansive vistas, rare desert wildlife, and historical and cultural sites; this byway travels through sculpted hills and shifting sand dunes and even dips below sea level. Death Valley features the lowest point and the hottest place in North America.

The experienceNational Scenic Byway
Start with this outlineChoose a section of the named byway
This view shows the Argus Mountain Range and Panamint Valley from Father Crowley Point.
View from Father Crowley Point
Public Domain. Courtesy of the National Park Service · Photo credits
Follow this windy road through the Black Mountains to reach Dante's View.
Dante's View Road
Public Domain. Photo from National Park Service · Photo credits

Before you drive

Choose your stops before departure and check current road access, weather and vehicle suitability. A byway listing does not guarantee that every section or visitor facility is open.

Make it a satisfying day

Choose a realistic section, then allow time for viewpoints, a town stop and breaks. Scenic mileage rarely tells the whole story of how long an outing will take.

Match the road to your vehicle

Check the exact roads for your car, RV or motorcoach. Tunnel dimensions, turning space, grades and road surfaces can matter as much as distance.

Official route information ↗State road-condition links ↗

Route overview and designation: Federal Highway Administration, America’s Byways. Research: October 2026. This is a travel idea, not live navigation or a guarantee that the full route is open. Confirm exact roads, current conditions, parking and any attraction reservations before departure.