Route map
Start / endStopsHalfway
Las Vegas to Death Valley: the drive
The drive from Las Vegas to Death Valley National Park covers 123 miles (197 km) and takes about 2 hr 15 min without stops, mostly on SR-160, CA-190 and Bell Vista Road.
It's an easy drive that leaves plenty of time to explore along the way. Allow about 2 hr 45 min with breaks.
We found 3 worthwhile stops within about 25 miles of the route, including Hoover Dam and Seven Magic Mountains.
| Main roads | Approx. miles |
|---|---|
| SR-160 | 56 |
| CA-190 | 30 |
| Bell Vista Road | 15 |
Best time to go: November to March. Summer highs exceed 115°F; carry extra water and fill up before you enter.
Best stops between Las Vegas and Death Valley
Before you leave Las Vegas
- 3
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
A 13-mile one-way scenic loop 25 minutes from the Strip. A timed-entry reservation has been required for most of the year.
Photo: Wilson44691 · CC0
- 1
Hoover Dam
Walk across the 726-foot Art Deco dam, or take the power plant tour. The Mike O'Callaghan–Pat Tillman bridge walkway gives the best view.
Photo: Mariordo (Mario Roberto Durán Ortiz) · CC BY-SA 4.0 - 2
Seven Magic Mountains
Seven towers of neon-painted boulders in the desert just off I-15 south of Las Vegas. Free, quick and very photogenic.
Photo: Bobak Ha'Eri · CC BY 3.0
Where to stay in Furnace Creek
The hottest, driest and lowest national park: Badwater Basin, Zabriskie Point and Artists Drive. Furnace Creek is the closest town with lodging. Rooms near national parks sell out in peak season, so book early.
Map not loading? See places to stay near Furnace Creek →
Renting a car for this trip
Most travelers fly into Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) and pick up a car there. Booking a round trip from the same airport is usually much cheaper than a one-way rental. A mid-size car is fine for all paved roads on this route. You only need an SUV for the optional dirt-road detours.
Need a car?
Rental cars at LAS
Compare prices from major and local agencies at Harry Reid International Airport in one search.
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Trip cost calculator
Estimate gas or charging, hotels and car rental for a round trip from Las Vegas to Death Valley:
Las Vegas to Death Valley road trip FAQ
How long is the drive from Las Vegas to Death Valley National Park?
About 2 hr 15 min without stops for 123 miles via SR-160, CA-190 and Bell Vista Road. With breaks for fuel and food, allow around 2 hr 45 min.
What is the halfway point between Las Vegas and Death Valley?
Pahrump, NV is about halfway, roughly 62 miles from each end. It's a good place for fuel and a meal.
Can you drive from Las Vegas to Death Valley in one day?
Yes. At 2 hr 15 min of driving it's a comfortable one-day trip. Leave early so you arrive with daylight to spare.
What are the best stops between Las Vegas and Death Valley?
Top stops include Hoover Dam and Seven Magic Mountains. See the full list with detour times above.
How much does gas cost from Las Vegas to Death Valley?
About $16 one way in a car that gets 28 mpg with gas at $3.60 a gallon. Use the calculator on this page to plug in your own car and prices.
When is the best time to visit Death Valley?
November to March. Summer highs exceed 115°F; carry extra water and fill up before you enter.
Route calculated from OpenStreetMap data and checked 2026-11-09. Drive times assume normal traffic and no stops.
