At the Edge of Time: Sunset, Stars and the Badlands of Zabriskie Point
Where light carves the badlands and the Milky Way rises over the lowest basin in North America.
You reach the saddle of the overlook just as the light begins to change. The wind is warm against your face; the badlands below look like a dried river of ochre and ash, ridges folding into one another in sharp, eroded waves. From Zabriskie Point you can feel the park’s contradictions—ancient lakebeds and recent volcanic ash, a basin that cradles the lowest point in North America and ridgelines that catch every last golden ray. The light lingers, then fractures into color. The earth seems to inhale.
Trail Wisdom
Time your visit for golden hour
Arrive 45–60 minutes before sunrise or sunset for the best light and cooler temperatures; tours often schedule Zabriskie for sunset and follow with stargazing.
Hydrate and shade up
Carry at least 2–3 liters of water per person for short outings and wear a brimmed hat—shade is limited and heat can spike quickly.
Stay on designated paths
The badlands are fragile; do not scramble on the ridgelines where erosion is active—stick to the paved viewpoint and marked trails.
Bring layers for night
Evenings cool rapidly; pack a light insulated layer if you plan to stay for stargazing after sunset.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Drive the short, rarely crowded Dantes Drive for expansive valley views often skipped by tour groups
- •Arrive pre-dawn to walk from the viewpoint toward the Furnace Creek wash for solitude and soft morning light
Wildlife
bighorn sheep, jackrabbit
Conservation Note
Visitors are urged to stay on designated paths to prevent erosion of delicate badland soils; pack-in, pack-out policies and night-sky respect (no unnecessary lighting) help protect the park.
Zabriskie Point is named after Christian Brevoort Zabriskie, a vice president of the Pacific Coast Borax Company; the surrounding badlands are part of deposits from ancient Lake Manly and volcanic ash.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: wildflowers after rain, moderate daytime temperatures, photography of soft light
Challenges: variable weather, flash flood risk in slot canyons
Spring offers comfortable days and the chance of wildflower displays after rare rains—still carry sun protection and check canyon conditions.
summer
Best for: desert solitude, early-morning photography at dawn
Challenges: extreme heat (often >110°F), limited services and heat risk
Summer is harsh; avoid midday activity and plan early-morning visits or join guided tours that manage safety and water.
fall
Best for: sunset colors, stargazing with cooler nights
Challenges: busy weekends, shorter daylight hours
Fall balances excellent light and milder temperatures—this is the optimal season for sunset photography and evening tours.
winter
Best for: clear skies for stargazing, comfortable daytime hikes
Challenges: cold nights, occasional wind or frost
Winters are typically mild by day but can be cold at night—dress in layers and expect crisp, clear skies for astronomy.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Hydration pack (2–3L)Essential
Keeps water accessible for hot, exposed conditions and longer photo sessions.
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Supportive footwear for loose scree and uneven badland edges.
Headlamp or flashlightEssential
Essential for stargazing tours and walking back to vehicles after sunset.
Wide-angle lens and tripod
Crucial for dramatic landscape compositions and long-exposure night shots.
Common Questions
How long is the walk from the parking lot to the Zabriskie Point overlook?
The paved spur from the lot to the viewpoint is short—about 0.3 miles round-trip—and accessible, though the overlook has some steps and exposed edges.
Can I see the Milky Way from Zabriskie Point?
Yes; Death Valley is a Dark Sky Park—on moonless nights the Milky Way and countless stars are clearly visible, especially after astronomical twilight.
Are there guided tours that include Zabriskie Point?
Yes; many small-group and private tours from Las Vegas or Furnace Creek include Zabriskie as part of full-day itineraries, often timed for sunset and stargazing.
Is it safe to explore the badlands below the viewpoint?
You can explore nearby areas, but avoid wandering onto fragile ridgelines—erosion makes the ground unstable and off-trail travel is discouraged.
When is the best time to photograph Zabriskie Point?
Golden hour at sunrise or sunset provides the most striking light; plan to arrive early to set up compositions and watch the changing tones.
Are pets allowed at Zabriskie Point?
Pets are allowed in the park but must be on a leash and are restricted from certain trails and areas—check National Park Service regulations before visiting.
What to Pack
Hydration (2–3L), Sun protection (hat, SPF), Sturdy shoes (support and traction), Light insulated layer (cool nights)
Did You Know
Death Valley holds the world’s highest recorded air temperature: 134°F (56.7°C) at Furnace Creek on July 10, 1913.
Quick Travel Tips
Fuel up before entering the park; carry extra water and snacks; check road and weather conditions with the National Park Service; schedule visits for early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat.
Local Flavor
Furnace Creek’s small eateries and the nearby Timbisha Shoshone community provide local context—sample hearty ranch-style fare at park lodges and look for cultural programming at the visitor center.
Logistics Snapshot
Nearest services: Furnace Creek (in-park). Access: paved road, short parking spur to viewpoint. Best times: sunrise/sunset. Cell service: intermittent. Permits: standard park entrance required.
Sustainability Note
Respect fragile soils—stay on trails, minimize light pollution during night visits, and pack out waste; supporting local guide services helps fund stewardship and educational programs.