How to be a responsible tourist when visiting Death Valley - Taylor Moore

The sun-scorched expanses of Death Valley transport all who visit to another world, where jagged peaks, vast salt flats and shifting dunes stretch for as far as the eye can see. Under one of the hottest and driest skies on earth, the arid wilderness of this unique landmark draws hikers, adventurers and geologists alike to experience its alien and awe-inspiring landscape.

But as one of the most extreme and rare environments in the world, it’s crucial to be respectful when visiting Death Valley. If you fancy venturing into the depths of this national park, here’s how to be a responsible tourist and ensure you leave no trace of your travels.  

Tread carefully

Though at first glance it may appear that Death Valley is nothing more than a desolate wasteland, it actually possesses a fragile ecosystem. Careless tourism can have devastating impacts on the incredibly rare fauna and flora that call the valley home, so it’s imperative to always tread carefully when exploring here.  

Whether you’re hiking up the warped mountains or trekking across the remnants of the ancient seas, always be mindful of the area you’re exploring and stick to frequented routes. There are plenty of hiking trails throughout the valley to help preserve the natural landscape and avoid any accidents or injuries to tourists. All vehicles must stay on the roads – no offroad driving is allowed in the park.

When stopping to eat or rest, be sure to pack all of your trash to take away with you – including food scraps and any biodegradable materials. It is illegal to collect rocks, plants or other artifacts you find throughout the valley, so be sure to leave everything as you found it for future generations to enjoy.

Respect the wildlife

You’d be forgiven for thinking nothing could survive in Death Valley, but there is a diverse selection of highly-adapted wildlife roaming the desert. From bighorn sheep and coyotes to desert tortoises and snakes, don’t make the mistake of assuming you’re alone in the valley.  

Always observe any wildlife you encounter from a distance, and never feed or approach them. Human food can be harmful to these creatures, and if you disturb or stress them you could force them to expel precious energy which they need to conserve for their survival.

It’s also important to educate yourself on how to stay safe around some of Death Valley’s more dangerous species. Rattlesnakes, scorpions and black widow spiders often hide between the rocks and seek shelter from the sun under bushes throughout the park. Pay close attention to where you choose to step or sit, and if climbing, never place your hands into a hole if you can’t see inside.  

Follow the rules

The National Park Service sets rules to protect both visitors and the environment, so it’s crucial to follow these in order to be a responsible tourist. Observe speed limits and be cautious of any animals crossing the roads – especially at dawn and dusk when they are more active.

Many adventurers dream of camping in Death Valley, surrounded by the clearest skies and barren vistas, but you should only camp in designated areas or backcountry areas where it’s permitted. You can check up on the current rules and restrictions on the park’s website, or by stopping off at the Furnace Creek Visitor Centre or by chatting with a park ranger.