Death Valley Archives

In Central California

Otherworldly Views at Artist’s Palette

The desert silence is disrupted only by crunching rocks beneath boots or the mechanical click of a camera shutter. Morning in Death Valley brings a slight breeze, the temperatures already starting to soar. Pastel colors are spread hastily across the rocky landscape like it was scribbled on with sidewalk chalk. These unnatural colors and shapes are what create the otherworldly views at Artist’s Palette, a stop along Artist’s Drive for brave souls traveling through Furnace Creek. This spot is perfect for desert photography, bizarre sightseeing, and feeling like you’re on another planet.

Otherworldly pastel colors and views at Artist's Palette — Like the Surface of Another Planet

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How to Get to Artist’s Palette via Artist’s Drive

Artist’s Palette is a colorful stop along the route called Artist’s Drive. Signs for the start of Artist’s Drive can be found on Badwater Road. The location is south of Zabriskie Point, but north of the Badwater Basin Salt Flats. Visitors can find Artist’s Palette about midway through the 9 mile scenic drive, marked with a sign and next to a parking lot.

How Long Does it Take to Complete Artist’s Drive?

The Artist’s Drive scenic loop splits off of Badwater Road and explores the colorful, eroding hills and rocky boulders of Death Valley. The total drive spans 9 miles long, and can be driven straight through in about 30 minutes. However, there are many stops along the way with scenic vistas and otherworldly views, like the unnatural-looking pinks and teals at Artist’s Palette. Because there is so much to stop and see, and partially because you may get stuck behind other slow drivers, I would recommend planning at least an hour to complete this drive, or more if you are planning on stopping for some desert photography.

Pinks, purples, and teals in Death Valley National Park, California

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Desert Photography and Otherworldly Views at Artist’s Palette

The pastel colored rocks and sand are the major attractions to see at Artist’s Palette. For those looking to do some desert photography and capture the otherworldly views, it is recommended to visit in the morning or late afternoon. The direct, overhead sun tends to wash out the vivid colors you’re trying to capture. Avoiding midday may also help you beat the crowds and harsh heat.

Are the Pastel Colors Natural?

This canyon of pastel colors is completely natural, caused by oxidation of different metals in the earth. Surrounded by shades of brown, the pops of teal and pinks stand out among the rocks, and there is an area full of entirely purple sand. It’s no wonder Death Valley has been used as a sci fi filming location in movies and shows like Star Wars, The Mandalorian, and The Twilight Zone.

Purple sand, otherworldly views, and desert photography at Artist's Palette along Artist's Drive — Purple Sand at Artist’s Palette

Best Time of Year to Visit Artist’s Palette

The best time of year to visit Artist’s Palette and do some desert photography is in the cooler months of October through May. Avoid visits in the summer months, as the high temperatures and extreme climate can be very dangerous. In the summer, Death Valley can reach scorching temperatures of 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 Celsius). On winter and spring days, you can expect to enjoy blissful sunny weather averaging at about 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 Celsius).

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Otherworldly Views and desert photography at Artist's Palette, Death Valley — Save to Pinterest: Otherworldly Views at Artist’s Palette

Planning a Trip to Death Valley?

Planning a trip to this beautiful national park in the California desert? Be sure to check out my other Death Valley articles:

Travel guide and tips for sunrise photography at the Badwater Basin salt flats, the lowest point in North America.
Traverse the ever-changing desert landscape of the Mesquite Flat sand dunes.
Looking for an easy sightseeing stop? Get info on Zabriskie Point.
Want to stay overnight in the park? Check out the Ranch Hotel at the Oasis.

In Central California

5 Reasons to See Zabriskie Point

Zabriskie Point, along with most of Death Valley, looks like the surface of another planet. Situated in the middle of the National park near Furnace Creek, it’s a quick stop that can be added to any point in your trip. In case the landscape alone doesn’t draw you in, here are 5 reasons to see Zabriskie Point.

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1. Otherworldly Views

The thing that surprised me the most about Zabriskie Point were the layers of otherworldly views. Cliffs and curves of yellow, orange, and brown mesh together to form a dramatic landscape in all directions. I went there expecting to be impressed, but I was blown away by simply how much there was to see from standing up on the main viewing platform. Fun fact: the dramatic outline of the ridged peaks at Zabriskie Point was used as a filming location in episode 1 of The Mandalorian. Proof that this location really does look like the surface of another planet.

2. Great Location

One of the 5 reasons to see Zabriskie point is that is centrally located, making it a very convenient add on to your Death Valley itinerary. It’s just about 5 minutes away from Furnace Creek Visitor Center. I stayed at the nearby Ranch Hotel at Death Valley Oasis, so Zabriskie Point was the first sightseeing stop I made on the way to check in to my hotel. It was a wonderful introduction to Death Valley. I would estimate that making a stop at Zabriskie Point could easily be done in 30 minutes if you’re short on time.

Views and information on Borax Mining from the viewing platform at Zabriskie Point — Views and information from the viewing platform

3. Easy Access

Zabriskie Point is conveniently located off Highway 190 with easy signage leading the way. It has a large parking lot that is a close distance to the main viewing point. It is also one of the few locations in Death Valley that doesn’t require driving down a questionable and rocky dirt road. The walk up to the main viewing platform is quick and easy, requiring some light uphill walking along a paved pathway.

Paved walkway and parking lot. Easy access is one of the 5 reasons to see Zabriskie Point. — Heading down the paved walkway to the parking lot

4. Perfect for Sunrise or Sunset: One of the 5 Main Reasons to See Zabriskie Point

While Zabriskie Point is going to be amazing at any time of day, morning and afternoon light is definitely going to help you see it at its best when all the varying colors and tones are on display. If you want to take it up a notch, however, head to Zabriskie Point for sunrise or sunset. The convenient and easy location makes it very good for sunrise photography, because you won’t have to do much navigating in the dark, early hours to get there. It is definitely a popular spot for sunset as well. The reds and oranges that wash across the landscape at these magic hours is breathtaking, making it one of the 5 reasons to see Zabriskie Point.

Enjoying the otherworldly views, one of the 5 reasons to see Zabriskie Point — Enjoying the views

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5. Trailhead for Badlands Loop Hike

If you want to see a bit more than what is offered at the main viewing platform, Zabriskie Point is where you will find the trailhead to the Badlands Loop Trail. A 2.5 mile loop, the Badlands Loop Trail allows you to more fully immerse yourself in the otherworldly colors and textures around you. The trail is on the easy side, with an elevation gain of only 400 feet. Most visitors finish the trail in 1.5- 2 hours.

Trailhead Sign. Golden canyon, Red Cathedral, and Badlands Loop Hike. — Trailhead for Badlands Loop Hike

Summary: 5 Reasons to See Zabriskie Point

Don’t let Zabriskie Point be a spot you pass up. The views are absolutely amazing and out of this world. Its convenient location and viewing platform make it really easy to visit. A perfect spot for sunrise and sunset, Zabriskie Point is wonderful for photography, hiking, and exploring.

Planning a Trip to Death Valley?

Check out my post on Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. Learn when to visit and how to be prepared.
Read my article on how to catch the miraculous sunrise at Badwater Basin Salt Flats.
Consider a full day, small group tour of Death Valley from Las Vegas, Nevada.

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In Central California

Sunrise at Badwater Basin Salt Flats

While visiting Death Valley National Park, I took advantage of every opportunity to experience some sunrise photography. My favorite area of the park was Badwater Basin salt flats, a white sea of salt in the middle of nowhere, 282 feet below sea level. The only two souls for miles, we arrived at 5:30am and ventured far out into the dark, eerie morning abyss. After walking for about 30 minutes, the pristine salt crystals started to form beneath our feet, an otherworldly landscape taking shape. We stopped in the middle of the vast basin, looked around us, and saw nothing but salt, mountains, and sky. The cold air was dense with silence.

We photographed the blue morning light, sunrise arriving an hour late due to the extremely low elevation and surrounding mountains. The sun first warmed the mountain peaks in the distance before slowly spreading across the salt flats. We saw it getting closer, creating shadows in the hexagonal rock formations as it made its way toward us.

When those orange tones hit the ground beneath our feet, everything changed. The landscape took another shape, a livelier shape, one full of color. This is what we had come for. Basked in the orange morning glow, we got the photos we had envisioned, capturing a celebration of the elements in one of the most barren spots on earth.

Sunrise at Badwater Basin salt flats in Death Valley Photoshoot with Model — Sunrise adventure at Badwater Basin

When those orange tones hit the ground beneath our feet, everything changed.

How to See the Sunrise at Badwater Basin Salt Flats

Best Time of Year to Visit Death Valley

The best time of year to visit Badwater Basin Salt Flats and do some sunrise photography is in the cooler months of October through May. Avoid visits in the summer months, as the high temperatures and extreme climate can be very dangerous. In the summer, Death Valley can reach scorching temperatures of 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 Celsius). On winter and spring days, you can expect to enjoy blissful sunny weather averaging at about 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 Celsius).

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Budget Enough Time to See the Sunrise at Badwater Basin Salt Flats

Keep Walking

What I learned from my experience was that I needed to walk much farther than I expected to reach the area of Badwater Basin I had seen in photos. I went there seeking the pristine hexagonal shapes of white salt that looked like the surface of another planet. When you arrive at the parking lot for Badwater Basin, however, that is not what welcomes you. Instead there is white solid ground as far as the eye can see. There may have been salt formations there at one point in time, but it’s likely that the daily tread of visitors has turned it into a flat surface.

The salt worn down from so many visitors in Death Valley — Worn down rock salt. Can you spot the parking lot in the distance?

Trust me, keep walking. Set out walking into the distance, and keep going. You will eventually reach the salt rock formations you’re looking for. I timed it, and it turns out I walked for about 30 minutes before I reached the area I decided was good enough for some sunrise photography at Badwater Basin. I saw a few other photographers way further out than I was. The extremely flat surface makes it a bit hard to judge distance just based on sight, but I would estimate that they walked for at least an hour to reach where they were. So if you’re planning to be out in the perfect spot when the sun peaks over the mountains, be sure to budget 30 minutes to an hour of walking.

Photographing blue light waiting for Sunrise at Badwater Basin salt flats — Blue Light before the dawn

Prepare for Sunrise to be Late

Another thing I learned from my experience is that the sun didn’t rise when my weather app told me it would. I had planned to arrive early enough to trek out onto the salt flats, find the perfect spot, and get some great shots in the blue light before dawn. What I didn’t plan for was waiting an extra hour out there on the flats. Due to the extremely low elevation and surrounding mountains, this wasn’t the typical sunrise photography experience. The sun didn’t reach us until an hour later than expected.

So do your research on the planned sunrise time, and expect it to be later. I recommend staying inside the park if you can to reduce your early morning drive. I stayed at the Ranch Hotel at Death Valley Oasis and it was awesome having a short driving distance to the salt flats.

Watching the beautiful desert sky — The sleepy sunrise was an hour late

Parking at Badwater Basin Salt Flats

I parked in the main parking lot for Badwater Basin and it worked just fine for me. It is a paved lot with marked spaces, and as you look down from the parking lot, you will see the sign for Badwater Basin. There is a restroom near the lot as well. When I had arrived at 5:30 in the morning, my husband and I were the only ones there, it was dark, and I was doubting if we were in the right place. So I am here to let you know that you are in the right place. I saw some other cars drive past the lot and park on the side of the road. That was probably fine as well, but it didn’t seem to get them much closer.

Badwater Basin sign near parking lot in Death Valley — Badwater Basin: 282 feet below sea level

What to Bring for Sunrise at Badwater Basin Salt Flats

Water. There is literally nothing out there, so be sure to be prepared with water and snacks. Remember: the farther you walk out, the farther you have to walk back. The full sunrise adventure could easily take a few hours. Reusable bottles like Hydroflasks are recommended if avoiding plastics.
Comfortable shoes: This seems obvious, but if you’re like me, I wore the cute shoes (uncomfortable shoes) that I wanted to be wearing in my photos. It was an unpleasant surprise to learn how much walking was required. You’ll be walking on even surfaces at some points, and will be constantly stepping over the lines of rock salt.
First aid kit. I always mention this one, but it seems like it is especially necessary when going out to see the sunrise at Badwater Basin salt flats. Firstly, you’ll be walking in the dark, and secondly, that rock salt is sharp. If you fall out on those flats, it is going to be painful and there is going to be some scrapes. I don’t know how I didn’t fall when I was there, especially while trying to walk around looking cool and collected for my photos and not looking at the ground where I was stepping.
Flashlight if arriving in the dark.
Back up batteries. With non stop sunrise photography and probably a fair share of waiting around, you can expect to use up all the batteries on your camera and phone. Bring some back ups just in case.
Towel or blanket to sit on. There was a long wait time, and that white salt gets all over your clothes. Best to put something down to sit on while you wait for the sun.

Come prepared in Death Valley — Behind the scenes. Come prepared!

Be Sure to Actually Wait for the Sun

I admit there was a moment where I thought about turning back early. I had come there for sunrise photography, but had other plans to see the rest of Death Valley that day. The sun was about 45 minutes late at that point, and it was getting cold out. I didn’t know how much longer it was going to be, and the sun was still only hitting the mountains way in the distance. Eventually I saw a warm glow on some of the ground, but it was very far away. Again, it’s hard to judge distance when the surface is that flat. I decided to start walking towards the lit up ground in the distance and meet the sun halfway. It was a total game changer, and I’m so extremely thankful I didn’t leave early.

Planning a Trip to Death Valley?

Check out my post on Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. Learn when to visit and how to be prepared.
Be sure to include Zabriskie Point in your visit.
Consider a full day, small group tour of Death Valley from Las Vegas, Nevada.

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Sunrise at Badwater Basin Salt Flats in Death Valley — Pin it for Later: Sunrise at Badwater Basin

Looking for More Places to Stay Near Death Valley?

Browse my interactive map for available hotels and vacation rentals near Death Valley:

In Central California

The Ranch Hotel at Death Valley Oasis

When driving through the vast desert landscape of Death Valley National Park, the colorful Ranch Hotel truly stands out as an oasis. It is centrally located in Furnace Creek along highway 190, surrounded by towering palm trees. The Ranch is a short drive from The Inn, which is another one of the Death Valley Oasis properties, but is a separate hotel entirely. I did stop at The Inn and it looked luxurious and definitely worthy of checking out on my next visit to the national park, but for this trip I stayed the night at The Ranch.

Welcome sign and palm trees for The Ranch at Death Valley — Welcome Sign at The Ranch

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Quick Facts About The Ranch Hotel at Death Valley Oasis

Restaurants and groceries on site
Gas station nearby
Swimming pool, play ground, and tennis court on site
Newly renovated
224 Rooms

Fountain at the Town Square at The Ranch Hotel — Town Hall Fountain

The Rooms at The Ranch

The Ranch has standard rooms and deluxe rooms. I stayed in the deluxe room, which was in a single story building with French doors leading to a patio. There are a limited number of rooms with king beds, so I got one with two queen sized beds. Even with two beds in the room, it still felt very spacious. The bed and pillows were comfortable and I slept really well. Noise could clearly be heard from the neighbors talking and laughing loudly until around 10pm. So while perhaps not the best for those going to bed early in hopes for a sunrise start, it was nice to learn that the quiet hours after 10pm were adhered to.

Deluxe Room with Two Queen Beds, Desk, and Chair — Inside the Deluxe Room

There are plenty of regular outlets and USB outlets at the desk and by the beds, which makes it easy and convenient to charge all your electronics at once. The bonus for me was the mini fridge, always a luxury when staying away from home. The bathroom and shower were spacious and clean as well. I wish I had more time to spend outside in the patio and out on the grounds. I saw some groups gathered at the fire pits nearby. Next time I am here for more than one night, I am definitely checking those out.

One thing to note: The hotel website lists the check in as 4pm and they mean it. I had shown up early around 12pm, and there were no rooms at all being opened for early check in until exactly 4pm. So be prepared to entertain yourself at the restaurant, gift shop, and grounds while you wait for your room.

TV, desk, refrigerator, and drawers at The Ranch Hotel at Death Valley Oasis — More of the Deluxe Room and Patio

Patio of deluxe hotel room at The Ranch Hotel — More of the Deluxe Room and Patio

The Food at The Ranch

The Last Kind Words Saloon

We chose to get our meals from the Last Kinds Words Saloon because it had more of a variety for us than the 1849 restaurant. With indoor dining currently closed for the pandemic, both restaurants only offer take out. Guests are welcome to seat themselves at the outdoor tables after they have picked up their food. Luckily for us the weather was nice, so we sat outside for a light lunch on arrival. The quality of the food was excellent. The price range is on the higher side, but, after all, we are ordering gourmet food in the middle of the desert. Due to limited outdoor seating, we carried our dinner and breakfast to our hotel room. I look forward to returning when I can better enjoy the inside ambience of the saloon.

The decor of the Last Kind Words Saloon is exactly what you’d want to see at an old timey saloon: framed portraits of wild west heroes, rifles on the walls, and a touch of taxidermy scattered about. The bartenders are all very nice and great at keeping everything clean and in adherence with COVID-19 safety guidelines. Only about 10 people could be in the large saloon at once while maintaining social distancing, and the bartender let us walk around upstairs a bit while enjoyed our beers and waited for our food. We were the only two on the second floor, and I had a great time browsing all the decor and enjoying the view of the saloon from above.

Entrance to The Last Kind Words Saloon — The Last Kind Words Saloon

Annie Oakley portrait with rifles Wild West decor at the Last Kind Words saloon — The Last Kind Words Saloon

The 1849 Restaurant

While I didn’t eat at the 1849 restaurant, I did walk through it a couple times to check out the menu and see what was being offered. I noticed they serve coffee and ice cream, as well as pizzas and burgers in the afternoon and evenings. From the items being offered to the large area for indoor seating (currently closed off due to the pandemic), I can tell this would be the perfect place for a meal when traveling with kids.

The General Store at The Ranch

I was thoroughly impressed with the General Store at the Ranch Hotel. In addition to having an impressive selection of groceries, they had really unique souvenirs (fancy some Death Valley chapstick or a scorpion in a lollipop?). The grocery area had everything from fresh fruit and snacks to cold drinks and a wine display. The refrigerated section had ready to go lunches items like cold sandwiches, wraps, yogurt, and hummus snack packs. The dry foods area had chips, trail mixes, and granola bars. And there was an entire section of the refrigerated aisle dedicated to soft drinks, energy drinks, and beer.

Fresh Groceries in The General Store — Groceries at The General Store

The souvenirs ranged from funky decor made by local artists to everything you could possibly imagine with a Death Valley logo. And it wasn’t just one logo, they had branding in about 5 different styles to choose from. So no matter what type of souvenir you’re looking for, whether it be a coffee tumbler, a t-shirt, or a cell phone pop socket, they not only have it, but they most likely have it in a style that your family and friends will enjoy. Personally, I opted for a quirky 50’s style Death Valley magnet to add to my travel collection currently growing on my fridge.

The General Store Entrance at The Ranch — Souvenirs at The General Store

General store souvenirs at the Ranch Hotel at Death Valley Oasis — Souvenirs at The General Store

The Borax Museum at The Ranch at Death Valley Oasis

Honoring Death Valley’s borax mining history from the late 1800’s, the Ranch at Death Valley Oasis has a section dedicated to showcasing the old equipment used in the mining days. We saw old wagons and machines and even a steam train engine. The museum is more of an outdoor, sectioned off area than a typical museum, so there are no entrance fees or entry times. Guests can simply wander among the old equipment and learn about the history of mining.

Entrance to The Borax Museum — The Borax Museum

Old wagon and machines at The Borax Museum in Death Valley — The Borax Museum

Summary: The Ranch at Death Valley Oasis

Staying at The Ranch at Death Valley Oasis was definitely a highlight of my trip. After a long day of sightseeing, photography, and climbing sand dunes (be sure to check out my article on the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes), it was a luxury to return to a restaurant I could walk to, and a comfortable bed to crash on. My only regret was that I didn’t have more time here to experience proper relaxation at the hotel itself. If The Ranch is any indication of how the Death Valley Oasis operates their property down the road, The Inn, I’m sure it is a wonderful place to stay as well. I know next time I’m in Death Valley, I am definitely staying more than one night.

Check Rates for the Ranch at Death Valley Oasis

Entrance to the Ranch at Death Valley at Night — Entrance to The Ranch at Death Valley

What’s Next on Your Road Trip?

Want more otherworldly desert landscapes in California? Check out my article on the Mobius Arch loop Trail: A Quick Intro the Alabama Hills
Looking for more California National parks? Check out my Ultimate Yosemite Valley Travel Guide

In Central California

Catching a Sunrise at Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes

Catching a Sunrise at Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes in Death Valley, California

Sitting among towering sand dunes in the darkness as deep blues and pinks come to life in the sky is an experience of deep reflection. One of the things I love about sunrise photography is the pause before the moment. Getting to sit with your thoughts, the silence around you only interrupted by an occasional breeze gracing the surface of the sand, gives you a moment of stillness and appreciation. Catching a sunrise at Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes is perfect for photography, meditation, or just sheer appreciation of beauty.

Sun flare photography at the sand dunes in Death Valley

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Best Time of Year to Visit Death Valley

The best time of year for catching a sunrise at mesquite flat sand dunes is in the cooler months of October through May. Avoid visits in the summer months, as the high temperatures and extreme climate can be very dangerous. In the summer, Death Valley can reach scorching temperatures of 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 Celsius). On winter and spring days, you can expect to enjoy blissful sunny weather averaging at about 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 Celsius).

How to Prepare for Catching a Sunrise at Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes

Plan Out Your Timing

What I wish I would’ve known before arriving to Mesquite Flat was how far I would have to wander out to get to the good dunes. If you’re looking to enjoy the overall view of the dunes in the distance, it can easily be done from your car in the parking lot. The first set of dunes within closest walking distance are the ones that are heavily foot-printed, and most likely full of other visitors during the day. For the smooth sand dunes with pristine curves and edges, expect to do some walking. If you’ve ever tried to run in sand, you know it’s not an easy task, especially if hauling your photography or photo shoot equipment with you, and especially if walking up and down hills of moving sand.

When planning for a sunrise or sunset, timing is key.

Colorful sky when catching a sunrise in Death Valley

When planning for a sunrise or a sunset, timing is key. Be sure to give yourself 30-45 minutes of walking in the sand to explore and find the perfect spot for your photos. You don’t want to arrive just before sunrise and have to experience the changing shadows and dramatic sun-lit dunes from the parking lot. Wake up extra early and give yourself some time. You will not regret it. Plan to stay inside the park if you can to reduce your early morning drive. I stayed at the Ranch Hotel at Death Valley Oasis and it was awesome having a short driving distance to the sand dunes.

What to Bring for a Sunrise at Mesquite Flat

When catching a sunrise at Mesquite Flat sand dunes, be sure to bring a back pack with some supplies. Especially you’re planning to hike out to the more remote dunes, you want to be prepared.

Water. Bring plenty.
Flashlight. This is especially important when catching sunrise or sunset.
Towel. Unless you want to sit right on the sand, bring a towel for those relaxing moments. This also doubles at protecting your gear from getting covered in sand.
Sunscreen. From sun up to sun down, the sun can be harsh at the dunes.
Quality camera bag. When you’re sliding down dunes, the sand tends to fly. Be sure you have a bag with good quality zippers and closures to reduce the risk of sand getting on your equipment.
First aid kit. Best to be prepared.

Mesquite Flat Entrance in Death Valley — Entrance to Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes

What to Wear

Best Clothes for Sand Dunes

The benefit of visiting Death Valley in the winter and spring months is the great weather. If visiting in these months, you can plan on catching a sunrise at Mesquite Valley sand dunes in your summer shorts and dresses, but be sure to bring a sweater or blanket as well. The walk to the perfect dune is a bit of a workout, but once you take a seat on the cold sand and wait for sunrise, it can get a bit chilly.

Best Shoes for Sand Dunes

I think the best footwear for walking in sand dunes are sturdy sandals. Walking or hiking shoes are fine, but they will become buckets of heavy sand within seconds. Flip lops are unsteady and will keep getting pulled from your feet by the wight of the sand. Sandals that are strapped to your feet are best so they can protect you while letting the sand flow out. Going barefoot is cute for a few minutes, but, if you’re like me, that begins to hurt after a while, especially if the sand is really cold before sunrise or hot before sunset.

Sunset Photography in Death Valley — Sunset Photography at Death Valley Sand Dunes

Fun Facts About Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes

The tallest sand dune at mesquite flat is over 100 feet tall
In the early morning, you may be able to spot animal tracks from the night before
It is the filming location for parts of Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope. For a full list of movies filmed here, check out the NPS article: Death Valley in Movies and Television
It is the only sand dune area of Death Valley in which sandboarding is allowed
Mesquite Flat is one of the five locations in Death Valley where you can find sand dunes

Catching a Sunrise or Sunset at Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes

Planning a Trip to Death Valley?

See the lowest point in North America and feel like you’re on another planet at the miraculous Badwater Basin Salt Flats.
Be sure to include Zabriskie Point in your visit.
Consider a full day, small group tour of Death Valley from Las Vegas, Nevada.

Looking for a Place to Stay Near Death Valley?

Browse my interactive map for available hotels and vacation rentals in Death Valley: