Artists Palette

Artist’s Palette in Death Valley National Park is a breathtaking natural wonder renowned for its stunning and vibrant colors. This unique area features a series of hills and mountains adorned with swirls of pink, blue, green, and yellow, created by the oxidation of different minerals in the rocks. The colors are especially striking during sunrise and sunset when the light enhances their beauty. The drive to Artist’s Palette is scenic and accessible, making it easy to explore. There are short walking trails that allow visitors to get up close to the colorful formations. The area feels surreal, almost otherworldly, as if you’ve stepped into a painter’s canvas. It’s a fantastic spot for photography enthusiasts, as the ever-changing light creates captivating opportunities. Overall, Artist’s Palette is a must-visit when exploring Death Valley, offering a unique glimpse into the geological artistry of nature. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photographer, or just looking for a remarkable experience, this vibrant landscape will leave you in awe.

WHY VISIT? 1. In short, it’s beautiful. The landscape backdrop is one of the most colorful in the park. 2. Not much of a time commitment (when already on the Artists Drive one-way loop). It’s a great place to pull aside and take it all in. WHY SKIP? 1. Only include if already on the Artists Drive one-way loop. I would not recommend driving the entire loop just for this point of interest. However, I do recommend the “loop” as a whole as it has many great points of interest along the way. 2. There is a short trail available, but in my opinion, the colorful landscape is best observed from a distance. The trail is too close to observe the entire palette of colors. GOOD TO KNOW: 1. There is a small road leading to the trailhead. The parking lot is small and fills easily. As stated above, it is best to view Artists Palette from a bit of a distance. *Before* reaching the turnoff for the trailhead, the colorful “Palette” will be in view and there will likely already be several cars parked on each side of the road. Here, there will be plenty of parking and it is easy to walk toward the “Palette” and get a great view of the colors. Remember, this is an unmarked viewing area and it is before the turnoff to the trailhead. This is a one-way road so it isn’t easy get back to after passing.

Must do drive in Death Valley, slightly challenging it the Tahoe but really enjoyed it. Being European the driving was not that hard compared to some roads in Europe. Still some steep drops but really worth it. The pictures don't do justice to the scenery. I would definitely recommend taking some time and doing this tour.

A must see spot in Death Valley NP. Oh boy, so many colors of rocks, pink, purple, blue, red, green and so on.. it looks like someone played holi here 😀 to get to actual point, it’s a short hike from the parking lot. Parking lot gets filled up quickly.

Fun short hike but hilly and you're likely to get rocks in your shoes. The colors weren't super intense when we went but still worth visiting. Parking wasn't a problem.