Standing on the salt flats at Badwater Basin puts you at the lowest elevation in the Western Hemisphere, surrounded by a bizarre landscape of white salt polygons and mineral deposits. The basin stretches for miles, creating hexagonal patterns in the dried lakebed that looks like another planet. A small pool of extremely salty water gives the place its name — it’s undrinkable but supports unique bacteria and salt-loving plants.
Easily accessible via paved Badwater Road in Death Valley National Park. The 0.5-mile walk from parking to the basin is flat and wheelchair accessible. Avoid midday in summer when temperatures can exceed 120°F. Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for photography.
Lowest point in North America
Place Details
| Type | Point of Interest |
|---|---|
| Street address | Furnace Creek Boulevard, Furnace Creek, California 92328 Get directions → |
| Nearest town | Furnace Creek, CA |
| Miles from pavement | 0 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle |
| Access road surface | Paved |
| Cell service | None |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | Free |
| Reservation required | No |
| Best season | October-April |
| Land manager | NPS |
| Permit required | No |
| Amenities | Toilets |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |