My wife and I flying to Reno the last week of October and heading south along the Sierra Nevada. I've been down to Lee Vining but never any farther south along the range. What are some "don't miss areas" between Lee Vining and Death Valley. We are hoping to make it to Death Valley for 2 days so what would be the "don't miss areas" in Death Valley.

My wife wants to try panning for gold, so are there any mines open to the public where she can try her luck prospecting? Thanks for all suggestions.