Telescope Peak Adventure!

Desert Camping and a challenging hike.

Death Valley National Park | November 6–8, 2026

We’re heading to Death Valley for a weekend of camping, exploring, and hiking to the summit of Telescope Peak (11,043 feet), the highest point in Death Valley National Park!

Friday, November 6 – Road Trip & Exploring

We’ll leave Fresno Friday morning, stopping at Kohnen’s Bakery in Tehachapi to pick up some delicious sandwiches.

We’ll have some extra time for exploring along the way. Possibilities include hiking partway up Surprise Canyon, visiting the historic Wildrose Charcoal Kilns, or checking out other interesting spots.

We’ll set up camp at Wildrose Campground for the night.

Saturday, November 7 – Telescope Peak Summit!

This is the big day! We’ll get an early start and drive up the dirt road toward Mahogany Flat, where the trail begins.

The hike is approximately 14 miles round trip with 3,000 feet of elevation gain from Mahogany Flat. It’s a challenging, high-altitude hike with spectacular views of Death Valley and the Sierra Nevada.

Recent storms may have damaged the road to Mahogany Flat. We’ll drive as far as conditions safely allow, but we may need to add a few miles to the hike if the road is impassable.

Be prepared for cold temperatures, strong winds, and possibly snow or ice at higher elevations!

Essential hiking gear:

* Warm layers, gloves, and a windproof jacket

* Microspikes or crampons for possible snow and ice (depending on conditions)

* Hiking poles — highly recommended!

* Sturdy hiking boots

* Headlamp

* Plenty of water (at least 3 liters)

* Lunch, snacks, and plenty of energy!

After our summit adventure, we’ll return to Wildrose Campground for a second night of camping, relaxing, and celebrating our accomplishment.

Sunday, November 8 – Heading Home

We’ll enjoy a leisurely morning, break camp, and make our way back to Fresno.

Camping Information

We’ll be staying at Wildrose Campground Friday and Saturday nights. It’s a primitive, first-come, first-served campground at approximately 4,100 feet elevation. There are vault toilets but no drinking water, so bring plenty for the entire weekend.

A Few Important Notes

This is a strenuous hike at high elevation, so come prepared and in good physical condition. Weather and road conditions can change quickly, and we’ll adjust our plans as needed.

Three days of adventure, two nights under the stars, and one spectacular summit!