News Release

Entrance fees waived on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Telescope Peak, reflected in the temporary shallow lake at Badwater Basin in late December.

NPS

News Release Date: January 12, 2024

Contact: Abby Wines

DEATH VALLEY, Calif. – Entrance to Death Valley National Park will be free on Monday, January 15 in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

A temporary, shallow lake stretches for a few miles in Badwater Basin. During calm winds, it reflects the surrounding mountains. The effect is most spectacular in early morning or late afternoon. Due to the remnants of Hurricane Hilary, the park received more rain on August 20 than it normally receives in a year. The shallow pool has been slowing shrinking for months. Park rangers do not know how long it will last.

The weather forecast for Monday at Badwater Basin is mostly sunny with a high around 68 degrees.

All units of the National Park Service will be waiving entrance fees on January 15. Camping fees will still be charged. Death Valley National Park’s standard entrance fee is $30/vehicle or $25/motorcycle. An annual pass to all national parks is $80. Seniors 62 or older pay $10 for an annual pass to all parks. Veterans, active military, permanently disabled people, and families with fourth-grade students qualify for free passes.

Badwater Basin in late December 2023.

NPS

Badwater Basin on Decemeber 24, 2023.

NPS