Los Angeles to Death Valley

274.8 miles: 4 hours, 55 minutes

With L.A. in the rearview mirror you'll travel to the arid Owens Valley before approaching the park from the west. The road climbs and winds through the rugged Panamint Range, then drops to the valley floor. Near the tiny tourist village of Stovepipe Wells (you'll find a motel, food, gas and supplies) are the park's most easily accessible sand dunes; a sunset visit is best.

30.3 miles: 0 hours, 34 minutes

At the heart of the valley is oasis-like Furnace Creek (home to two hotels and the NPS visitor center), an ideal base for exploring the park's natural attractions. Catch sunrise at the famed Zabriskie Point overlook. Hike gorgeous Golden Canyon. Stand 282-feet below sea level at Badwater. Do sunset at the colorful, geologic kaleidoscope that is Artist's Palette.

232.5 miles: 3 hours, 51 minutes

Though the scenery can't compare with that of Death Valley, the stretch of road between the junction and Baker offers some decent desert landscapes. Up for a bit of cheesy fun? There's a touristy ghost town just outside Barstow. Tip: It's wise to avoid this leg on Sunday afternoons when southbound I-15 is often jammed with L.A. weekenders driving home from Las Vegas.

36.2 miles: 0 hours, 58 minutes

Let's be honest—departing Barstow, the largely uninteresting scenery will tempt you to floor it back to L.A. Instead, slowing your roll will yield some interesting little attractions along the way. Back in the City of Angels, rinse off the road dust and settle in for a sophisticated dinner downtown.