Quick Facts:
Location: Death Valley, California
Coordinates: Zabriskie Point: 36.42088820303213, -116.80977678745717
Golden Canyon: 36.42060011237763, -116.8467375779458
Length: 6.5 Miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,000’
Dog Friendly: No
Introduction:
Death Valley is full of dramatic landscapes, but few trails show off its beauty like the Golden Canyon and Gower Gulch Loop. This route winds through golden-hued badlands, past towering rock formations, and up to the famous Zabriskie Point.
Getting to the Trailhead:
The trail starts at two possible locations: Golden Canyon Trailhead or Zabriskie Point. Most people start at Golden Canyon, just a few miles from Furnace Creek on Badwater Road. If you’re coming from Furnace Creek, it’s a quick 10-minute drive south. The alternative is to start at Zabriskie Point, located right off CA-190. Either way, you’ll end up doing the full loop.
Parking Information:
Golden Canyon Trailhead has a designated parking lot, but it fills up fast during peak season. Death Valley National Park charges a $15-$30 fee or you can use the America the Beautiful Pass to enter. If you start at Zabriskie Point, you’ll find a larger parking lot with restrooms. This is a great option if you want to soak in some epic views before hitting the trail.
Landscape Description:
This hike is like stepping into a natural maze of golden and rust-colored rock. The first stretch through Golden Canyon is breathtaking, smooth canyon walls glow in the sun, and the path is lined with towering cliffs. About a mile in, you’ll reach Red Cathedral, a massive rock formation that looks like it belongs in a sci-fi movie. Many hikers take a quick detour here before continuing on the loop.
From there, the trail climbs through the badlands toward Zabriskie Point. The views along this section are unreal, with rolling, eroded hills that stretch out like waves frozen in time. At Zabriskie Point, take a break and soak in one of the most iconic views in Death Valley.
The second half of the loop follows Gower Gulch, a wide wash that feels a little wilder. You’ll pass old mining remnants and dramatic rock formations before the trail slowly descends back toward Golden Canyon. The terrain here is more open, with fewer towering walls but just as much beauty.
Trail Difficulty and Length:
The full loop is about 6.5 miles with 1,000 feet of elevation gain. It’s considered moderate, but the heat and exposed terrain can make it feel harder. The trail is mostly packed dirt and gravel, with a few short, steep climbs. There’s no shade, so start early and bring plenty of water.
Dog-Friendly?
Nope. Like most trails in Death Valley, dogs are not allowed on this route. It’s too hot and harsh for them anyway, so it’s best to leave your pup somewhere safe and cool.
Park Rules and Regulations:
Stick to the trail! These badlands are fragile, and wandering off damages the landscape. Don’t collect rocks or disturb historical artifacts. Pack out all trash, and never underestimate Death Valley’s heat. Even in cooler months, dehydration sneaks up fast.
Other Hikes Nearby:
If you love desert scenery, check out the Mesquite Sand Dunes, a shorter 2 mile trail. For a bigger challenge, hike Golden Canyon to Red Cathedral as a shorter out-and-back.
Non-Hiking Attractions Nearby:
Death Valley is packed with jaw-dropping sights. Visit Dante’s View for one of the best panoramic views in the park. Stop by Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, or explore the vibrant mineral-streaked hills at Artist’s Palette. If you’re into history, check out Harmony Borax Works to learn about the area’s mining past.
Best Time to Visit:
Unless you enjoy hiking in an oven, avoid summer. The best time to visit is from November to March, when temperatures are mild. Mornings and late afternoons offer the best lighting for photography, and winter months are perfect for cooler, more comfortable hikes.
