Slot Canyon

This hike to an unnamed slot canyon is a great way to get off the beaten path and explore one of the many hidden gems found within Death Valley National Park.

Begin by driving past Badwater Basin on Badwater Road. Traffic will thin considerably after you pass the Badwater Basin parking lot. You’ll want to pull up the location of this hike on your phone and keep an eye on it while you drive. There is no official trailhead, just park alongside the road when you arrive. As you get close you will be able to see some orange/red rock and what looks like it could be a slot canyon from the road.

Once parked, pick your path up to the slot canyon. There is no trail here, but the hiking is fairly easy. As you get close you’ll see what looks like two canyon entrances, on on the left and one on the right. The main slot here is the one on the left.

Once you enter the slot canyon there will be an easy scramble up a small ledge to continue forward. Unfortunately you can only continue a very short distance beyond this point as the canyon is blocked and carrying on is impossible without some serious rock climbing ability and gear.

Enjoy your time in the slot, and be sure to snap some pictures as the view out of the canyon down to Badwater Basin and Telescope Peak is incredible.