The Zabriskie Point 4.5 miles from Furnace Creek coming from Death Valley Junction is famous for the movie with the same name. But films aside, it's a spectacular formation of carved and colorful grooves made by the elements. There is parking for several vehicles at the start of a path up to the lookout. The walk is short and well worth it. Coming from Death Valley Junction you can find it after the turnoff to Dante's View.
Dante's View is a site not to be missed. I've visited Death Valley twice, and the first time I did not come to this viewpoint, and I can ensure that I did not leave with the same memory as the first time. Its located just off Highway 190, where you have to climb the mountain by a small road for 13 miles (do not go in motorhome). At the top you'll have an absolutely gorgeous view of Death Valley. The height is 1669m and the last mile of the climb is 14% , so it is hard for cars, but not that much (if your car starts to overheat, turn off the air conditioning). But hey, the last time I was there was in mid-September and it was not so bad, although it gets quite warm (bring plenty of water in case). There is enough parking for several vehicles.
Artist Drive or Artists Palette is a small road in Death Valley, off the main 178, and the inner direction to the mountain which winds through the canyon. The road is narrows and entertaining, in good condition, but is only one direction, that is, back out to the 178, and 15 miles long. Do not miss the mineral pigments from volcanic stones which create very intense colors. The iron produces reds, pinks and yellows, the decomposition of the mica makes the green and manganese creates purple and violet. You should visit at sunset.
Devil's Golf Course or Salt Sea is 12 miles south of Furnace Creek Ranch, on Highway 178 and south of the artists palette. There you will find the star of Death Valley, the vast expanse of salt in the desert. You can lose yourself in the sight of this salt sea. Hence the name: Devil's Golf Course.
Badwater is on the border of highway 178 and 18 miles south of Furnace Creek Ranch. It's a salty pond from a giant lake which covered the valley for thousands of years. It's the lowest point in the US at 86 m below sea level. Another reason to see the salt lake.
The visitor center is in the village of Furnace Creek on California Highway 190, within Death Valley. Furnace Creek is 30 miles from Death Valley Junction and 24 miles from Stovepipe Wells Village. At the entrance of the park they didn't ask for our Park Pass because the booth was empty. You could enter without paying anything, but could be fined if a guard catches you. If you do not have the Park Pass you have to pay at a machine. As there is no one at the entrance, if you want a map of the park go to the Furnace Creek Visitor Center and ask for the map. Open daily 8AM-5:00 pm Pacific Time