Season by season
Autumn (October–November). Temperatures fall to comfortable levels, skies are clear and the park is quiet until Thanksgiving.
Winter (December–February). Mild days around 20°C (68°F), cold nights and snow on the high peaks. The best time for walking; busy over the holidays.
Spring (March–April). Warm and popular, with wildflowers in good years. By late April it is already hot at midday.
Summer (May–September). Daily highs above 45°C (113°F) are normal and nights stay hot. Visit only with great care and for short stops.
Month-by-month
| Month | Avg. high | Avg. low | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 19°C / 66°F | 5°C / 41°F | Busy |
| February | 23°C / 73°F | 8°C / 46°F | Busy |
| March | 28°C / 82°F | 13°C / 55°F | Peak |
| April | 33°C / 91°F | 17°C / 63°F | Busy |
| May | 38°C / 100°F | 22°C / 72°F | Moderate |
| June | 43°C / 109°F | 27°C / 81°F | Quiet |
| July | 47°C / 117°F | 31°C / 88°F | Quiet |
| August | 46°C / 115°F | 30°C / 86°F | Quiet |
| September | 41°C / 106°F | 24°C / 75°F | Quiet |
| October | 34°C / 93°F | 16°C / 61°F | Busy |
| November | 25°C / 77°F | 9°C / 48°F | Busy |
| December | 18°C / 64°F | 4°C / 39°F | Busy |
Temperatures are rounded long-term averages for the main visitor area; real days vary, and mountains and deserts swing much more between day and night.
Events & festivals
- November: Death Valley ’49ers Encampment, celebrating pioneer history
- December–January: Holiday peak — book lodging early
- February–March: Dark Sky Festival with astronomy talks and telescopes
- February–April: Wildflowers, in years with enough rain
- July: Badwater ultramarathon passes through the park
- New moon nights, year-round: The best conditions for stargazing
Tip: plan each day around the light. Do your sightseeing at sunrise and from late afternoon, and use the middle of the day for driving, the visitor centre or the pool.
