The lowest point in North America is an otherworldly expanse of vast salt flats. This basin lies 282 feet (86 m) below sea level, and a temporary lake can form here after significant rainstorms. The Mesquite Dunes are the most renowned dune field in Death Valley.

Artist’s Drive offers the best opportunity to observe Death Valley’s stunning natural beauty and vibrant colors. Here, exotic rock formations display shades of pink, lavender, emerald, brown, and purple, illuminating the landscape. The exceptionally clear air intensifies these colors, making them even more vivid and captivating. This dazzling, living natural environment attracts artists, photographers, filmmakers, and visitors from across the globe.

Death Valley National Park boasts one of the darkest night skies in the United States.Its remote location, minimal light pollution, and clear, dry air create optimal conditions for observing the cosmos. The vast, open landscapes also provide unparalleled panoramic views of the celestial sphere. Join us for an unforgettable weekend of discovery, wonder, and celestial beauty at the Death Valley Dark Sky Festival – an experience that will deepen your appreciation for the universe and leave you with lasting memories.

Itinerary

Day 1 (Friday, February 6): Arrival and Desert Wonders Under the Twilight Sky

Your adventure begins with a midday arrival, allowing ample time to settle in and prepare for an afternoon of exploration. Upon arrival, we’ll delve into the dramatic Golden Canyon, a natural masterpiece carved by eons of erosion, offering a moderate hike through its colorful and winding walls. Following this invigorating experience, we’ll descend to Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level. Here, you’ll witness a surreal landscape of vast salt flats, a truly unique and breathtaking sight.

As evening approaches, you’ll have the flexibility to enjoy a dinner at your leisure.  The highlight of the evening will be your active participation in the Death Valley Dark Sky Festival. Renowned for its exceptionally clear and unpolluted night skies, Death Valley provides an unparalleled opportunity for stargazing. Engage with expert astronomers, attend fascinating presentations, and observe celestial wonders through powerful telescopes, truly connecting with the cosmos.

Day 2 (Saturday, February 7): Sculpted Landscapes and Continued Celestial Exploration

Day two is dedicated to exploring more of Death Valley’s iconic natural formations, culminating in another evening of stargazing. Our morning begins with a visit to the captivating Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. These ever-shifting dunes offer a dramatic contrast to the rocky canyons and salt flats, inviting you to wander and marvel at their sculpted forms. Following this, we’ll embark on a scenic drive along the Artist’s Palette, a vibrant geological wonder where mineral deposits paint the mountainsides in a stunning array of reds, yellows, greens, and purples. This short but breathtaking drive offers numerous photo opportunities.

In the afternoon, we’ll embark on a rewarding hike through Mosaic Canyon. This unique canyon is famous for its polished marble walls, smoothed by flash floods over millennia, creating a mesmerizing, mosaic-like effect. The hike offers a different perspective on the park’s geological history and an opportunity to appreciate the intricate details of its natural artistry.

Similar to the first evening, dinner will be flexible, allowing you to choose your dining experience. As darkness descends, we’ll continue our active participation in the Death Valley Dark Sky Festival. With different presentations, workshops, and stargazing sessions, you’ll have further opportunities to deepen your understanding and appreciation of the night sky, perhaps even spotting a meteor shower or identifying new constellations.

Day 3 (Sunday, February 8): Panoramic Vistas and Farewell to the Desert

Our final day in Death Valley offers sweeping panoramic views before your departure. We’ll start with a invigorating hike along the Badlands Loop, a trail that winds through a labyrinth of eroded badlands, offering dramatic vistas of the surrounding desert. The diverse geological formations and subtle color variations make this a truly memorable experience. Our journey culminates at Zabriskie Point, one of Death Valley’s most iconic viewpoints. From here, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking panorama of eroded badlands, colorful sediments, and the distant salt flats, a perfect photographic farewell to this majestic landscape.

Following these final explorations, we’ll begin our departure for Las Vegas. A relaxed lunch will be enjoyed en route, reflecting on the incredible experiences of the past three days. We’ll aim for evening flights from Las Vegas, ensuring ample time for travel and check-in. This 3-day winter dark sky adventure promises a truly memorable experience, combining the unparalleled natural beauty of Death Valley with the profound wonder of its celestial show, leaving you with lasting memories of both the desert and the stars.

Rates:
Double Occupancy: $300.00
Single Occupancy: $500.00

Included:
2 night accommodation (single and or double)
Hiking adventures: Friday, Saturday and Sunday morning/afternoon.
Dark Sky Activities Friday and Saturday night. 

Not Included:
Flight to Las Vegas (coordinated with attendees) 
Meals
Trip Leader Gratuity
Transportation Fee

Contact: hello@epic-retreats.com for more details