Devil's Golf Course Death Valley
Explore a surreal expanse of jagged salt crystals, a testament to ancient lakes and extreme desert conditions. A truly unique geological wonder.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the heat and capture best light
Devil's Golf Course Death Valley
Best Time
Beat the heat and capture best light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a surreal expanse of jagged salt crystals, a testament to ancient lakes and extreme desert conditions. A truly unique geological wonder.
"Absolutely fascinating rock formations along the ground. My favorite stop in Death Valley!"
👟 Sturdy Footwear is a Must
The salt crystals are sharp! Wear closed-toe shoes with good grip to navigate the terrain safely.
🚗 AWD Recommended for Access
The last stretch to the viewpoint can be rough gravel. AWD or high-clearance vehicles are advised.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crystallized Salt Formations
Devil's Golf Course
Explore a surreal landscape of jagged, crystallized salt formations that resemble a miniature, otherworldly mountain range.
Panoramic Desert Views
Overlook points
Marvel at the stark beauty of the Death Valley basin, with contrasting mountains and vast salt flats stretching to the horizon.
Stargazing Spectacle
Devil's Golf Course
Experience unparalleled stargazing in this designated Dark Sky Park, with the Milky Way often visible above the unique landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Jagged Terrain
Timing is Everything for This Unique Landscape
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is a Must
The salt crystals are sharp! Wear closed-toe shoes with good grip to navigate the terrain safely.
🚗 AWD Recommended for Access
The last stretch to the viewpoint can be rough gravel. AWD or high-clearance vehicles are advised.
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Death Valley is extremely hot. Carry plenty of water, especially if you plan to walk on the salt flats.
📸 Golden Hour Photography
The light during sunrise and sunset creates dramatic shadows and highlights on the salt formations.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is a Must
The salt crystals are sharp! Wear closed-toe shoes with good grip to navigate the terrain safely.
🚗 AWD Recommended for Access
The last stretch to the viewpoint can be rough gravel. AWD or high-clearance vehicles are advised.
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Death Valley is extremely hot. Carry plenty of water, especially if you plan to walk on the salt flats.
📸 Golden Hour Photography
The light during sunrise and sunset creates dramatic shadows and highlights on the salt formations.
🌌 Dark Sky Wonder
Experience incredible stargazing here; it's a prime spot for astrophotography.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the surreal, otherworldly landscape of Devil's Golf Course, with its sharp salt formations and vast desert vistas. Many find it a highlight of their Death Valley trip, appreciating its unique geological nature and photographic potential. However, the challenging terrain and extreme heat require careful preparation and sturdy footwear.
"No, you’re not actually going to golf here. When I was a kid I used to think that. I can’t even imagine walking around this area alone hitting a ball around. Absolutely fascinating rock formations along the ground."
David Stejkowski
"An impromptu stop on our journey through Death Valley. The salt flats and the the salt crystal formations were truly beautiful. Between the dry lake bed and the mountains beyond, it was truly a marvelous view."
Lucas Timmsen
"Just he name alone of this place: devils golf course. How cool is that. Think this is my favorite stop in Death Valley."
Matthijs
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Devil's Golf Course is located off Badwater Road. The final 1.5 miles are a rough, unpaved gravel road that is best navigated with an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) or high-clearance vehicle. 
While some visitors with regular cars have managed, the last stretch is challenging. It's recommended to have an AWD or 4x4 vehicle for a safer and more comfortable journey.
From Furnace Creek, head south on Badwater Road. The turnoff for Devil's Golf Course is well-marked. Continue on the unpaved road until you reach the main viewing area.
It is strongly advised NOT to drive on the salt flats. The surface is fragile and can be dangerous. Stick to the designated access road and viewing areas.
Devil's Golf Course is conveniently located near Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, making it easy to combine visits.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Devil's Golf Course is located within Death Valley National Park, which requires an entrance fee. You can purchase a pass at the park entrance stations or online.
Devil's Golf Course is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day, as it is an outdoor natural attraction within the national park. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and visibility.
No, there is no additional fee specifically for Devil's Golf Course beyond the standard Death Valley National Park entrance fee.
While you can get a passport stamp at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center, Devil's Golf Course itself does not have a stamp station.
The main restriction is to respect the fragile salt formations and stay on designated paths. Avoid disturbing the environment.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the unique crystallized salt formations, take photos, and enjoy the vast desert scenery. Some visitors walk out onto the flats, but caution is advised due to the sharp terrain.
Yes, you can walk on the salt flats, but it's challenging due to the sharp, jagged crystals. Wear sturdy shoes and be careful.
It is generally safe if you are prepared. Wear appropriate footwear, bring plenty of water, and be mindful of the extreme heat and uneven terrain.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography and more comfortable temperatures. Avoid midday heat.
There are no facilities like restrooms or water fountains directly at Devil's Golf Course. Come prepared with all your necessities.
📸 📸 Photography
The jagged salt formations create unique textures and shapes, especially when lit by the golden hour sun. The vastness of the salt flats against the mountains is also a stunning backdrop.
Absolutely! Death Valley is a certified International Dark Sky Park, and Devil's Golf Course offers a dramatic foreground for capturing the Milky Way and stars.
For daytime, use a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the salt. For astrophotography, a wide-angle lens, a tripod, and manual settings for long exposures are essential.
Sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic lighting, casting long shadows and highlighting the textures of the salt.
Drone usage is restricted in Death Valley National Park. Check the official NPS website for current regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The name itself, 'Devil's Golf Course,' can be a fun talking point to engage kids' curiosity about the natural world. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities available. Consider visiting in the cooler parts of the day, like early morning or late afternoon, to make the experience more comfortable for younger visitors. The vast, open space also provides opportunities for kids to explore (safely, of course) and take memorable photos. It's a great place to teach children about geology and the power of nature in extreme environments.
📸 Photographers & Astrophotographers
The contrast between the white salt, the surrounding desert mountains, and the expansive sky provides a stunning backdrop for landscape photography. As a prime location within an International Dark Sky Park, Devil's Golf Course is a dream for astrophotographers. The minimal light pollution allows for spectacular views of the Milky Way and constellations.
Bring your wide-angle lenses, tripods, and be prepared for long exposures to capture the celestial wonders above this otherworldly terrain. Remember to protect your gear from dust and extreme temperatures. 🚗 Adventure & Off-Road Enthusiasts
While you can't off-road on the salt flats themselves, navigating the access road adds an element of exploration to your visit. Once there, the challenging terrain of the salt formations offers a unique hiking experience. It's not a typical hike, but rather a careful scramble over sharp, crystallized salt.
+1 This provides a sense of accomplishment and a chance to truly immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of Death Valley. Remember to prioritize safety and wear appropriate gear for this unique adventure.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Devil's Golf Course
Walking on the salt flats requires extreme caution. The crystals are sharp and can easily cut through shoes or skin. Visitors are advised to wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking boots and to tread carefully. The terrain is uneven and can be disorienting, making it easy to twist an ankle. Despite the challenges, the unique geological spectacle is a major draw for visitors seeking otherworldly landscapes.
The area is also known for its unique acoustic properties. On extremely hot days, the salt crystals can be heard popping and cracking as they expand and contract due to the intense heat. This natural phenomenon adds another layer to the surreal experience of visiting Devil's Golf Course.
Devil's Hole: A Unique Aquatic Ecosystem
What makes Devil's Hole particularly fascinating is its connection to seismic activity. Earthquakes, even those occurring thousands of miles away like in Japan or Mexico, can cause significant water level fluctuations in Devil's Hole, sometimes creating waves up to several feet high.
The history of Devil's Hole also includes cautionary tales. In the 1960s, two individuals tragically disappeared while attempting to explore the depths of the cavern, and their bodies were never recovered.
Capturing the Otherworldly Beauty
The contrast between the white salt, the colorful desert mountains, and the vast blue sky (or starry night sky) provides endless compositional possibilities. +1For astrophotography, Devil's Golf Course is an exceptional location. As part of Death Valley National Park, a designated International Dark Sky Park, the light pollution is minimal, allowing for breathtaking views of the Milky Way and countless stars.
A wide-angle lens, a sturdy tripod, and manual camera settings for long exposures are essential for capturing the celestial spectacle above the unique salt formations. When exploring the area, remember that the salt crystals are sharp and can damage camera equipment if not handled carefully. Protect your gear from dust and sand, and be mindful of the extreme temperatures, which can affect battery life.
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