The Devils Golf Course is one of Death Valley's strangest places: a wide expanse of knobby, spiky salt formations that cover the valley floor like a frozen, miniature mountain range. The crystals form as salty groundwater evaporates and leaves behind rock salt, then wind and rain sculpt it into sharp points and hollows. A short, unpaved road leaves the Badwater Road and runs for a mile or so to a parking area, where you can walk out onto the formations. The name comes from an early guidebook which said that only the devil could play golf on such rough ground. On a quiet day, if you stand still, you can hear a faint ticking and pinging sound as the salt crystals expand and contract in the heat, a rare sound for a landscape so still.
The geology
The salt pan of Death Valley is one of the largest in the world, and the Devils Golf Course is its roughest part. Unlike the flat salt at Badwater, this area has a rugged texture because groundwater is close to the surface and keeps pushing up through the crust, building the pinnacles higher. Over time, the crystals are eroded by rain and dissolved, so the formations keep changing. Some of the spikes are a few inches high, others as tall as a hand.
How to visit
The turn-off is on the Badwater Road about thirteen miles south of Furnace Creek, and the access road is gravel but generally suitable for ordinary cars when dry. It is a short stop, perhaps twenty to forty minutes. Walk carefully, because the salt is razor sharp and can cut hands, knees and shoes badly if you fall.
Wear sturdy shoes, keep children close and do not climb or break formations. The formations are fragile and take a very long time to form, so stay on the visible paths and do not remove any pieces. The area is exposed and extremely hot in summer, so bring water and sun protection.
Making the most of it
Sunrise and sunset light make the pinnacles glow and cast long shadows, and a low angle exaggerates their texture. This is a good stop for photographers who want unusual foregrounds against the distant mountains. It combines well with Badwater Basin and Artists Drive, which are on the same road, and can be done quickly in an afternoon.
If you want more on the salt-pan story, a ranger program or the visitor center displays explain how it formed. Check with the park service for current road conditions, since flash floods can wash out the gravel access.
Extra tips
Keep to the visible paths to protect the formations, and do not walk with young children unattended because a fall onto the salt can cause deep cuts. Gloves are a sensible precaution if you plan to crouch for photography. On a very quiet morning, you may hear the ticking sound of the salt as it warms, a phenomenon that many visitors find magical.
Combine the stop with a drive on the nearby Natural Bridge Canyon road, where a short walk leads to a rock bridge. Bring water, as there is no shade and no facilities at the parking area.
What to expect
The experience
A short gravel road to a parking area, then a free walk onto jagged salt formations.
Best time
Early morning or late afternoon for light and cooler temperatures.
How long
Twenty to forty minutes.
Tips
Wear sturdy shoes, watch your footing on razor-sharp salt and do not break the formations.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Geology fans and photographers looking for something unusual.
- Families
- Fascinating for children, but supervise closely on the sharp salt.
- Couples
- Low sun makes the texture dramatic.
- Pair with
- Badwater Basin and Artists Drive.
- Time needed
- Under an hour.
Good questions
Why is it called the Devils Golf Course?+
An early guidebook said only the devil could play golf on such rough ground.
Is the salt sharp?+
Yes, it can cut skin and damage shoes badly, so walk carefully.
Is the road paved?+
The access road is gravel but usually suitable for ordinary cars when dry.
Can I hear the salt?+
On a quiet day you can hear faint ticking as the crystals expand and contract.
How long should I stay?+
Twenty to forty minutes is plenty for most visitors.