Explore Badwater Basin, The Lowest Point In North America

Badwater Basin in Death Valley National Park is the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level. This landscape stretches as far as the eye can see, spanning over 200 square miles. It’s reminiscent of a winter wonderland with its vast, glistening salt flat that on first glance look like snow. But Badwater Basin isn't just a captivating visual spectacle; it's also a remarkable testament to the intricate geology that has shaped it over the millennia. This intriguing site was once a pristine lake, a shimmering oasis in the arid expanse of Death Valley. Yet, as the years have unfolded, this ancient lake dwindled, leaving behind a legacy of sediment and salt that has accumulated in its absence. The basin's high salt content is so striking that it lends its name, the water here is undrinkable.

To Get There

  • Badwater Basin is located inside Death Valley National Park Map it

  • You’ll need to pay for a National park pass if you don’t already have one. Once in the park this is free to visit.

  • There is an easy to access parking lot here

  • You can walk down the flat path for as long as 5 miles, but most people just do a mile or so and head back.

When To Go

Best month’s to go to Death Valley National Park: February, March and November (April and October could work too, but bring more water and hike in the mornings and evenings)


Just For Fun Park Tees

It’s always fun to get a tank or tee with the National Park name on it for photos. If you purchase an item, I receive a small commission at no added cost to you. Thank you for supporting this travel blog with your purchase!


Walk the path of Badwater Basin

From the parking lot you walk out onto the platform to see the view above, with the sea level sign off to the right, great for a photo. Badwater Basin is 282 feet below sea level.

Just to the right of the sign is another informational sign about Badwater Pool. Apparently some creatures live within these salty waters, which is why it’s important to stay on the path.

Aquatic insects and the “Badwater Snail” live in the pools below. Pickleweed is a common form of plant life found in these types of salt marshes.

Snow in 90 degrees celsius? That’s what it feels like as you walk along the path and look beneath your feet.

This is definitely a sight to see when visiting Death Valley. It’s an unusual landscape, great for photography. Any other info about Badwater Basin or Death Valley? Please leave them in the comments below.

For a full list of things to do check out my post 3 Days In Death Valley National Park.

Just For Fun Park Tees

These tees are unnecessary for hiking, but it’s always fun to get a tank or tee with the National Park name on it for photos. I found these Tees on Etsy.  


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