Zabriskie Point

GPS Coordinates: 36.42006, -116.81223 (36°25’12.2″N 116°48’44.0″W)

Zabriskie Point is just a short drive from Furnace Creek and is probably one of the best spots in Death Valley and an easy stop en route to Dante’s View. The best time to visit is the early morning or late evening when the light is at its best. This is also a good spot for late night stargazing and the Milky Way when it’s a new moon.

Named after the Vice President and General Manager of the Pacific Coast Borax Company, Christian Zabriskie. This was the company that mined Borax in Death Valley long before it became a National Park. This Company also built the original overlook vista point (now renovated and improved) and the retaining wall up the small hill that we now see. This famous spot is also featured in a movie with the same title “Zabriskie Point”, U2’s Joshua Tree Album and few other Pop culture references.

The overlook offers a stunning panoramic view of the badlands and the surrounding mountains. This stands at the upper east end of the badland terrain full of impressive canyons and gulches. A short walk up a paved hill is all that it takes to take advantage of the amazing views.

From the vantage point towards the Northwest, you will see the impressive Manly Beacon rising above the orange and yellow colored badlands. Further right from the Manly Beacon is the Red Cathedral Cliffs. Towards the south, you will see the multicolored mountains that tower behind the Artist’s Palette. Beneath the Zabriskie point is the upper reach of the Gower Gulch.

If you have more time to spare, you can actually hike through the canyons. It’s just mind-boggling and beautiful. Words can’t describe how gorgeous these canyons are – you really have to experience it for yourself.

Best Time to Visit / Photograph

Sunrise and sunset and of course through the night for stargazing and to see the Milky Way. Another interesting time is during the full moon, that is a whole different experience by itself.

Recommended Camera Gear

• Digital Camera with Ultra Wide or Normal to Mid-Range Zoom Lens
• Cable shutter release or Remote Shutter Release
• Steady Tripod
• High powered flashlight for light painting and regular night time use

Other recommendations

• Layered clothing to adapt to the changing weather
• Carry plenty of water and snacks to keep yourself full and hydrated
• Wear comfortable shoes
• GPS tracker to track your current location no cell service throughout the park
• Headlamps and portable battery packs to keep your electronics charged

How to get there

From Furnace Creek, drive southeast on Highway 109 for 4 miles. Turn right into the parking lot for Zabriskie Point.

Place to Stay

If you are camping in your car, you can technically use the parking facility to camp overnight. It’s always advisable to check with the Park Rangers or at the visitors center. You don’t want to get a citation. The nearest places to stay is The Inn and The Oasis. If you drive further up north on HWY 190, you will find tons of camping options near Furnace Creek.

Pictorial Highlights from this place…

• 
• 
•