driving from Palm Springs to Death Valley

[SunJoaquin]

You CAN do it but only if you don't take time to pause and look at the attractions. And, yes, there are worthwhile things to see in Death Valley, and I think it's unfortunate when people just treat it like an open road and nothing else.

In fact, we went through Death Valley one year after a trek through Arizona, and early-evening we missed entrance to Scotty's Castle due to the stops we made through the whole monument.

It's awesome. But I do recommend going over your itinerary and research on place to stay at if you don't make the timing.

[BlackShoe]

Bit surprised that the summer weather has not been mentioned. The predicted high for today, just as an example, is 106 in Palm Springs and 114 in Death Valley. The desert has many attractions, but they are better enjoyed in cooler weather. Waiting until at least mid October or even until the desert spring next March-April would seem to be prudent.

[Twinkle Toes]

Originally Posted by BlackShoe

Bit surprised that the summer weather has not been mentioned. The predicted high for today, just as an example, is 106 in Palm Springs and 114 in Death Valley. The desert has many attractions, but they are better enjoyed in cooler weather. Waiting until at least mid October or even until the desert spring next March-April would seem to be prudent.

It's a given that during the summer it's hot in the Coachella Valley and in Death Valley. It kind of goes without saying ...

[dank]

I drove from Palm Springs to Joshua Tree on highway 62, across Joshua Tree National Park, and then to Orange County via 60 and 91. It was great!

[steel7]

Why not take the road trip in the winter instead of the very hot summer ? I have never been to death valley but i did come close one spring (30 miles) & turned back.The drive was just too long & boring. I regret not toughing out the 30 miles but maybe someday ill try it again. There really is ALOT to see & do in ca but with gas so expensive i cant afford a trip & wont anytime soon. The last time i went to the desert (palm springs & cat city) was sept 09. The mountains sure are nice & i drove by the tram but have never been on it.

[dank]

I rode the Palm Springs tram... it was great! I'm still going to go to Death Valley this summer, just to make the trip more interesting (w/lots of water of course)

[BlackShoe]

Originally Posted by dank

I'm still going to go to Death Valley this summer, just to make the trip more interesting (w/lots of water of course)

Death Valley in the summer is only for the brave or for contrarians, those doing it just to say that they did. The official record high American temperature was set here, 134, and many think that it has gotten even hotter, but never officially recorded.

[steel7]

Carry a first aid kit & plenty of water in your trunk. I always have 2 gallons of water in my trunk at all times. **** happens.