In addition to providing hourly Scotty's Castle "Living History" tours, Death Valley rangers keep busy giving lectures, group discussions, and film presentations on varied topics. For those eager to get their shoes dusty, several hikes and guided walks are available on a seasonal basis. Contact park headquarters for a seasonal schedule of day and evening events; nearly all programs (except for year-round Scotty's Castle tours) cease between mid-April and late October.

Pink Jeep Tours out of Las Vegas offers day trips to various park destinations for $119 per day and up. Among the tours is an all-day journey ($239, light breakfast and lunch included) into the remote Racetrack area, where rocks mysteriously skate around on an ancient dry lakebed. Call 888/900-4480 or visit www.pinkjeep.com for reservations or additional information.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.