4.8
(187)
2,346
hikers
28
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Furnace Creek traverse a unique desert landscape within Death Valley National Park, characterized by vibrantly colored badlands, dramatic canyons, and expansive salt flats. The region features striking geological formations, including deep canyons and rocky peaks painted with mineral hues, alongside towering sand dunes. Hikers can explore diverse ecosystems, from water-fluted canyons to flat, dry basins, offering varied terrain for exploration. This area provides a range of accessible routes suitable for different skill levels.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
4.5
(11)
80
hikers
3.36km
00:59
110m
70m
Embark on the Badlands Loop, an easy 2.1-mile (3.4 km) hike that offers a quick immersion into Death Valley's unique landscape. You will gain a gentle 375 feet (114 metres)…
1
hikers
3.53km
01:08
210m
40m
Embark on an easy hiking adventure through the Golden Canyon, Gower Gulch, and Badlands Loop, a 2.2-mile (3.5 km) route that offers a unique glimpse into Death Valley's striking geology.…

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1
hikers
679m
00:13
50m
0m
Embark on an easy hike along the Golden Canyon Trail, a short but captivating route that winds through dramatic desert scenery. This 0.4-mile (0.7 km) path takes you past towering,…
2.16km
00:34
30m
0m
Embark on an easy hike along Mustard Canyon Drive, a 1.3-mile (2.2 km) route that takes about 34 minutes to complete. You will gain 99 feet (30 metres) as you…
5.0
(2)
4
hikers
2.04km
00:34
40m
40m
Hike the easy 1.3-mile Badlands Loop Trail in Death Valley National Park, gaining 142 feet for unique badlands views.
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The heat should not be underestimated… Despite the short distance
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This is one of the famous viewpoints of the park. It is surrounded by wild, sandy, barren mountains.
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Zabriskie Point is a lookout point in the Amargosa Range in Death Valley National Park, known for its bizarre erosion landscapes around the former Lake Manly. It was named at the beginning of the 20th century after Christian Brevoort Zabriskie from Wyoming, the vice president and general manager of the Pacific Coast Borax Company, which was commissioned to mine borax in the area.
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Zabriskie Point is a lookout point in the Amargosa Range in Death Valley National Park, known for its bizarre erosion landscapes around the former Lake Manly. It was named at the beginning of the 20th century after Christian Brevoort Zabriskie from Wyoming, the vice president and general manager of the Pacific Coast Borax Company, which was commissioned to mine borax in the area.
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The cover of the legendary U2 album "The Joshua Tree" was recorded here. The cover's tree was on the edge of the national park on Route 190 (a construction site in the winter of 2023), but has now died.
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Iconic photo spot where the cover of the U2 album "The Josuha Tree" was photographed by Anton Corbijn.
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There are over 19 easy hiking trails around Furnace Creek, offering a variety of experiences through the unique desert landscape of Death Valley National Park. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars.
The best time for easy hikes in Furnace Creek is generally from late fall through early spring (October to April). During these months, temperatures are milder, making outdoor exploration more comfortable. Summer months can be extremely hot and are less suitable for hiking.
Easy hikes in Furnace Creek feature diverse desert terrain. You can expect to traverse vibrantly colored badlands, dramatic canyons with unique rock formations, and expansive salt flats. Some trails also lead through towering sand dunes or offer views of geological wonders like Artist's Palette and Natural Bridge. The paths are generally well-defined, but some may involve sandy or rocky sections.
Yes, Furnace Creek offers several family-friendly easy hikes. For instance, the Badlands Loop is a popular choice, offering surreal geological formations and views from Zabriskie Point. The Mustard Canyon Drive also provides an easy walk through a brilliantly colored canyon, suitable for families.
Yes, there are several easy loop trails. The Badlands Loop is a well-known easy loop that takes about an hour to complete. Another option is the Golden Canyon, Gower Gulch and Badlands Loop, which offers a slightly longer, yet still easy, experience through colorful rock formations.
Many easy hikes offer stunning landmarks and viewpoints. You can visit Zabriskie Point for panoramic views of the badlands, explore the colorful formations of Golden Canyon Trail and Gower Gulch, or see the striking Red Cathedral. The historic Harmony Borax Works is also an accessible site showcasing 19th-century mining history.
Yes, Furnace Creek offers some accessible options. The Harmony Borax Works features an ADA-accessible paved loop, providing an easy walk through a historic site. Additionally, the Salt Creek Interpretive Trail has a 0.5-mile wooden boardwalk loop, perfect for viewing the unique pupfish and enjoying the desert environment.
Death Valley National Park, where Furnace Creek is located, has specific regulations regarding pets. Generally, pets are permitted on paved roads, in developed areas, and on dirt roads where vehicles are allowed. However, they are typically not allowed on hiking trails, in wilderness areas, or in park buildings. Always check the latest park regulations before bringing your pet.
The komoot community highly rates hiking in Furnace Creek, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 170 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the unique and otherworldly desert landscapes, the vibrant colors of the badlands and canyons, and the opportunity to explore geological wonders. Many appreciate the variety of easy trails that allow for immersive experiences without extreme difficulty.
Easy hikes in Furnace Creek vary in length and duration. Many popular easy routes, such as the Badlands Loop, can be completed in about 1 hour. Shorter walks like the Golden Canyon Trail might take less than 15 minutes, while slightly longer easy loops like Golden Canyon, Gower Gulch and Badlands Loop can take around 1 hour and 10 minutes.
While the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes are a prominent feature in Death Valley, formal trails are not typically marked within the dunes themselves. However, you can explore the dunes cross-country, choosing your own easy route. This offers a unique experience of soft gray sand and intricate patterns carved by the wind, allowing you to walk as far as you wish.
Yes, parking is generally available at the trailheads for popular easy hikes around Furnace Creek. Locations like Zabriskie Point, Golden Canyon, and Harmony Borax Works typically have designated parking areas to accommodate visitors.


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