Where is death valley

Last updated: April 1, 2026

Quick Answer: Death Valley is a desert valley located in Eastern California spanning parts of Inyo and Kern counties, near the Nevada border within Death Valley National Park.

Key Facts

Located in Eastern California at the border with Nevada, about 120 miles northeast of Los Angeles
Contains Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level
One of the hottest places on Earth with recorded temperatures reaching 134°F in 1913
Part of the Mojave Desert ecosystem with unique geological formations and salt flats
Designated as Death Valley National Park in 1994, spanning 3.4 million acres

Geographic Location

Death Valley is located in Eastern California, primarily within Inyo and Kern counties, near the border with Nevada. The valley is situated approximately 120 miles northeast of Los Angeles in the Mojave Desert region. Death Valley National Park, established in 1994, encompasses 3.4 million acres of desert landscape, making it one of the largest national parks in the continental United States.

Extreme Geography and Elevation

Death Valley is notable for its extreme topography. Badwater Basin is the lowest point in North America at 282 feet (86 meters) below sea level. The valley is surrounded by mountain ranges, including the Panamint Range to the west and the Black Mountains to the east. This dramatic elevation difference, with peaks reaching over 11,000 feet, creates stark contrasts in the landscape.

Climate and Temperature Records

Death Valley holds the record for the highest reliably recorded temperature on Earth at 134°F (56.7°C), measured on July 10, 1913, at Furnace Creek. The valley's extreme heat results from its low elevation, surrounded mountains that trap heat, minimal rainfall, sparse vegetation, and clear skies that allow intense solar radiation. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 120°F.

Geology and Unique Features

The valley's geology reveals millions of years of tectonic activity and erosion. Notable features include extensive salt flats, colorful badlands, and tilted rock formations. The artist's palette displays vibrant mineral colors, while the Zabriskie Point offers panoramic views of eroded badlands. Moving rocks at the Racetrack Playa appear to move across the dried lakebed, a phenomenon scientifically explained by rare ice sheets that push rocks across the surface.

Ecology and Wildlife

Despite its harsh conditions, Death Valley supports diverse wildlife adapted to extreme heat and aridity. Desert bighorn sheep, coyotes, roadrunners, and various lizard species inhabit the valley. Spring wildflower blooms occasionally transform the barren landscape into a colorful display when sufficient winter rainfall occurs.

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Sources

Wikipedia - Death Valley CC-BY-SA-4.0
National Park Service - Death Valley Public Domain