It is an option for people flying to Calif. to hike Mt Whitney to fly into Las Vegas, and then drive to Lone Pine via Death Valley. A quick drive through will give you a flavor of DV, at least.
One thing to understand... depending on when you're going, it gets damned hot in DV, especially in the summer months. It's not much fun trying to view the scenery outside of your air-conditioned car, unless you go in the winter-spring-fall months.
Telescope Peak is an exception, because it is at a higher elevation.
