Devil's Golf Course and Artist's Palette Death Valley
Experience the vibrant, pastel-hued hills of Artist's Palette and the stark, crystalline salt flats of Devil's Golf Course in Death Valley.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Colors pop in golden light
Devil's Golf Course and Artist's Palette Death Valley
Best Time
Colors pop in golden light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the vibrant, pastel-hued hills of Artist's Palette and the stark, crystalline salt flats of Devil's Golf Course in Death Valley.
"The colors on the rocks were so amazing to see, a must-see in Death Valley!"
🚗 Drive Artist's Drive Slowly
Take your time on the 9-mile loop to truly appreciate the changing colors and formations.
👟 Sturdy Shoes for Devil's Golf Course
The salt crystals are sharp! Wear good shoes if you plan to explore beyond the immediate viewpoint.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Artist's Palette Colors
Artist's Drive
Witness a breathtaking display of pastel hues painted across the hills by oxidation and weathering. Truly a natural masterpiece.
Devil's Golf Course Salt Flats
Near Badwater Basin
An otherworldly landscape of sharp, jagged salt crystals stretching as far as the eye can see. A unique geological wonder.
Scenic Artist's Drive
One-way loop off Badwater Road
A 9-mile scenic drive offering stunning views of colorful hills and unique rock formations. Perfect for a leisurely exploration.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Artist's Palette
Devil's Golf Course: Tread Lightly
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive Artist's Drive Slowly
Take your time on the 9-mile loop to truly appreciate the changing colors and formations.
👟 Sturdy Shoes for Devil's Golf Course
The salt crystals are sharp! Wear good shoes if you plan to explore beyond the immediate viewpoint.
📸 Golden Hour Photography
Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic and vibrant photos of Artist's Palette.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Death Valley is extremely hot. Stay hydrated, especially when exploring these arid landscapes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Artist's Drive Slowly
Take your time on the 9-mile loop to truly appreciate the changing colors and formations.
👟 Sturdy Shoes for Devil's Golf Course
The salt crystals are sharp! Wear good shoes if you plan to explore beyond the immediate viewpoint.
📸 Golden Hour Photography
Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic and vibrant photos of Artist's Palette.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Death Valley is extremely hot. Stay hydrated, especially when exploring these arid landscapes.
⚠️ Watch Your Step
The salt formations at Devil's Golf Course are fragile and can be sharp. Be mindful of where you walk.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the unique, vibrant colors of Artist's Palette, especially during sunrise and sunset, calling it a must-see natural wonder. Devil's Golf Course offers a starkly beautiful, otherworldly landscape of salt crystals, though some find it less dramatic than anticipated. Both locations are appreciated for their visual appeal and are considered worthwhile stops for those exploring Death Valley.
"This place truly feels like heaven on Earth — absolutely breathtaking! It’s one of the most beautiful spots in Death Valley and a must-visit on your trip. Many people miss this gem, but trust me, your Death Valley experience isn’t complete without visiting it. The stunning views, peaceful atmosphere, and natural beauty will leave you speechless. Don’t make the mistake of skipping this spot — it’s truly one of the wonders of Death Valley and an unforgettable experience for every traveler!”"
Hari Kanna
"Went at dusk and it was beautiful! Wish we would have went a little earlier to get a better view of the rest of artists drive but the colors on the rocks were so amazing to see. Not super busy. Recommend going when there’s low light to get a better view of the colors."
Vickie Parry
"Really neat stop in Death Valley national Park. My family and I took a 10 minute stroll to get closer look. Well worth your time when visiting the park!"
Kipp Elsbernd
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Artist's Palette is accessed via the 9-mile one-way Artist's Drive loop, which branches off Badwater Road. Devil's Golf Course is located off Badwater Road, a short drive north of Badwater Basin. Both are easily accessible by car.
Yes, Artist's Drive is a paved, one-way loop road. However, it can be narrow and winding in places, so drive cautiously.
You can drive to a viewpoint parking area for Devil's Golf Course. The road leading to it is generally accessible for most vehicles, but the terrain itself is rough salt flats.
Many visitors combine these two stops as they are relatively close to each other on Badwater Road. You can visit Artist's Palette first, then continue north to Devil's Golf Course.
There are no services directly at Artist's Palette or Devil's Golf Course. The nearest facilities are at Furnace Creek Visitor Center or The Oasis at Death Valley.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no separate entrance fee for Artist's Palette or Devil's Golf Course. However, you will need to pay the standard Death Valley National Park entrance fee, which is valid for 7 days.
Artist's Drive is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, the best time to visit for the colors is during daylight hours, especially sunrise and sunset.
There is no specific parking fee for Artist's Palette. Parking is available at designated pull-offs along Artist's Drive.
Yes, Devil's Golf Course is accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and visibility.
The main restriction is to respect the fragile environment. Do not disturb the salt formations or vegetation. Stay on marked paths or designated viewing areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The best time for photography is during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset when the light casts a warm glow and accentuates the pastel colors. Midday sun can make the colors appear washed out.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating specific colorful formations. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance colors and reduce glare.
Yes, Devil's Golf Course offers unique photographic opportunities with its intricate salt crystal formations. The textures and patterns can be very compelling.
Drone usage is restricted in Death Valley National Park. Check the official NPS website for current regulations before flying a drone.
The extreme heat and dust can be challenging. Protect your camera gear from sand and heat. Also, the vastness can make it difficult to frame shots effectively; look for leading lines and interesting textures.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The 9-mile Artist's Drive loop typically takes about 30-45 minutes to drive, but allow extra time for stops to take photos and admire the views.
It is not recommended to walk extensively on Devil's Golf Course due to the sharp, jagged salt crystals. Stick to the designated viewing areas or very short, cautious explorations with sturdy footwear.
Wear light, breathable clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. For Devil's Golf Course, sturdy closed-toe shoes are essential.
There are no designated hiking trails directly at Artist's Palette or Devil's Golf Course. Artist's Drive is a scenic drive, and Devil's Golf Course is best viewed from the roadside.
Crowds can vary, but they are generally less crowded than major viewpoints like Badwater Basin. Visiting during sunrise or sunset usually means fewer people.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For Devil's Golf Course, supervision is key. While the sharp salt crystals make it unsuitable for extensive exploration by young children, the sheer scale and unusual texture of the salt flats can still be fascinating from a safe distance. Emphasize the importance of staying close to parents and not touching the sharp crystals. Bringing plenty of water and snacks is essential, as there are no facilities in these areas.
📸 Photographers
Devil's Golf Course provides a stark, textural landscape. Focus on the patterns and sharp edges of the salt crystals. Consider shooting at different angles to emphasize the three-dimensionality of the formations. Remember to protect your gear from dust and heat, and always check for any drone regulations before your visit.
🚗 Road Trippers
+1These locations are conveniently located along Badwater Road, making them easy to incorporate into a day trip. Plan to visit them in conjunction with Badwater Basin and Zabriskie Point for a comprehensive Death Valley experience. Remember to fill up your gas tank before entering the park, as services are limited.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Artist's Palette
Visitors often remark on how the colors seem to shift and change depending on the time of day and the angle of the sun. This dynamic display makes it a favorite spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. While the drive itself is scenic, stopping at the designated pull-offs allows for a closer appreciation of the intricate patterns and subtle color variations within the rock formations.
It's important to remember that this is a delicate ecosystem. Visitors are encouraged to stay on marked paths and avoid disturbing the natural formations to preserve the beauty of Artist's Palette for future generations. The 9-mile, one-way Artist's Drive loop provides a convenient way to experience this natural art gallery.
Navigating the Salt Flats of Devil's Golf Course
While the name might suggest a place for a leisurely stroll, it's crucial to approach Devil's Golf Course with caution. The terrain is uneven and can be unstable. Most visitors view this unique landscape from the roadside or a designated viewpoint. If you do decide to venture a short distance onto the salt flats, sturdy, closed-toe shoes are an absolute must. Avoid wearing sandals or open-toed shoes, as they offer little protection.
The visual impact of Devil's Golf Course is undeniable. The stark white of the salt against the desert landscape creates a dramatic and otherworldly scene. It's a place that truly embodies the extreme nature of Death Valley and offers a stark contrast to the colorful hills of Artist's Palette.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit