Dante's View - Image 1
1 / 10

Dante's View

4.9
·762 reviews·, United States

A majestic overlook in Death Valley National Park offering unparalleled panoramic views of the valley floor and surrounding mountains.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunrise & Sunset

Golden hour magic

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Dante's View - Image 1

Dante's View

Best Time

Sunrise & Sunset

Golden hour magic

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A majestic overlook in Death Valley National Park offering unparalleled panoramic views of the valley floor and surrounding mountains.

4.9
(762 reviews)

"The most beautiful part about life is that you don't have to have it all figured out."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Check Your Car's Condition

The steep, winding road can be tough on vehicles. Ensure your car is in good shape before ascending.

🧥 Layer Up for Wind

Temperatures are cooler here, and winds can be biting. Bring layers, especially for sunrise/sunset.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Valley Views

Panoramic Valley Views

Main overlook terrace

Spectacular 360-degree vistas of Death Valley, including Badwater Basin and Telescope Peak.

Sunrise and Sunset Spectacle

Sunrise and Sunset Spectacle

Main overlook terrace

Witness breathtaking sunrises and sunsets painting the desert landscape in vibrant colors.

Star Gazing Paradise

Star Gazing Paradise

Main overlook terrace

Experience an incredibly dark night sky, perfect for observing stars and the Milky Way.

Star Wars Filming Location

Star Wars Filming Location

Main overlook terrace

Visit the iconic spot that served as the filming location for Mos Eisley Spaceport.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

The Drive Up is Part of the Experience

The road to Dante's View is a steep, winding paved route. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, as there have been reports of cars overheating or catching fire. RVs and larger vehicles may have restrictions on the final section.

Dress for the Elements

While Dante's View offers a cooler escape from the valley floor, it can be very windy. Layering clothing is recommended, especially for sunrise or sunset visits, to combat the biting windchill.

Best Times

When
Sunrise & Sunset
Why
Golden hour magic
Crowd
Medium
When
Night
Why
Incredible stargazing
Crowd
Low
When
Morning
Why
Best for photography
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Star Wars filming locations - Mos Eisley #starwars #filminglocation #deathvalley #starwarsfan #UnsealTheMeal #OscarsAtHome
@codename_fulcrum
8.6K likes • 111K views

🚗 Check Your Car's Condition

The steep, winding road can be tough on vehicles. Ensure your car is in good shape before ascending. Reddit

🧥 Layer Up for Wind

Temperatures are cooler here, and winds can be biting. Bring layers, especially for sunrise/sunset. Reddit

Dante’s view is a must see if you’re ever in Death Valley!! 🤩🏜️ #deathvalleynationpark #dantesview #desert #hike #badwaterbasin
@bloominghikes
7.3K likes • 41.2K views
Beautiful scenic view at Dante's view. #dantesview #deathvalley #nationalpark #california #usa #scene #view #landscape #badwaterbasin #lake #mountains #landscape #gloryoflandscape
travellandeexplore
51 likes • 1.7K views

📸 Golden Hour Photography

Sunrise and sunset offer incredible light for photographers. Morning is often cited as best. InstagramReddit

✨ Stargazing Gem

The dark skies here are perfect for astronomy. Consider a night visit with a telescope. InstagramReddit

Dante’s View ❤️ #deathvalley #motivation #reels #views #fypviral #igdaily #vibes #fypppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppp #quotes #youdeserveawonderfullife #❤️
shortstuff.explores
15 likes • 727 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Check Your Car's Condition

The steep, winding road can be tough on vehicles. Ensure your car is in good shape before ascending. Reddit

🧥 Layer Up for Wind

Temperatures are cooler here, and winds can be biting. Bring layers, especially for sunrise/sunset. Reddit

📸 Golden Hour Photography

Sunrise and sunset offer incredible light for photographers. Morning is often cited as best. InstagramReddit

✨ Stargazing Gem

The dark skies here are perfect for astronomy. Consider a night visit with a telescope. InstagramReddit

🚶‍♀️ Short Ridge Trail

A one-mile trail along the ridge offers more viewpoints and is suitable for most skill levels. Reddit

🎬 Star Wars Fan Must-See

This is the filming location for Mos Eisley Spaceport. A must for any Star Wars enthusiast! TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.9
(762 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently rave about Dante's View, calling it a must-see and one of the best parts of Death Valley. The breathtaking panoramic views, especially during sunrise and sunset, leave people speechless. While the drive up is steep and winding, the payoff is immense. Some note the strong winds, advising visitors to dress in layers.

"One of the best parts of Death Valley. Definitely our favorite. The drive is neat as it’s a steep long winding road. The parking area at about 5,500’ above sea level has an amazing view of the valley below. It will leave you speechless. There are also a few trails that allow you an even better view of the valley. If you go to Death Valley do not pass up on this one. Make sure your car isn’t a beater and is in good condition. There was evidence of a car that caught fire in the parking lot.."

J. S.

"A fun drive up that culminates in a short section of 15% grade lead to an absolutely stunning view of the surrounding landscape. The sunset here was amazing! We were there in early January and while the temperature itself was mild, the winds were strong and a bit biting so layer up if you go during this time. Best sunset we caught in Death Valley."

EMARS77

"Breathtaking views of the mountains surrounding badwater basin! The sunsets were beautiful as well! It can get really windy with a windchill factor so get some layers or a windbreaker.

The road to get here is paved, so it was an easy trip if you're coming from Zabriskie Point.

Parking is plentiful. Restrooms are available."

Joe Joe H

What People Like

Breathtaking panoramic views
Spectacular sunrises/sunsets
Incredible stargazing

What People Dislike

Strong, biting winds
Steep, winding drive

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Dante's View is accessed via a paved, but steep and winding, 13-mile road (Dante's View Road) off Highway 190. The drive takes about 45 minutes from Furnace Creek. Reddit Ensure your vehicle is in good condition for the climb. Reddit

The road is paved and accessible to most vehicles, but the final section is closed to larger vehicles like RVs and trailers due to the steep grade. Reddit

The road is paved but very steep and winding. Drivers should be cautious and ensure their vehicle's brakes and cooling systems are in good working order. Reddit

Dante's View sits at an elevation of approximately 5,475 feet (1,669 meters) above sea level. Reddit

Yes, Dante's View is somewhat isolated from the main attractions like Furnace Creek and Badwater Basin, requiring a dedicated drive. It's about a 45-minute drive from Furnace Creek. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Dante's View is located within Death Valley National Park, which has an entrance fee. The fee is per vehicle and valid for 7 days. TikTok

Dante's View is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day, as it is an overlook within the national park. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the views. Instagram

No, advance booking is not required for Dante's View. It's a public viewpoint within the national park. TikTok

Yes, restrooms are available at the Dante's View parking area. Reddit

Yes, there is ample parking available at the Dante's View overlook, and it rarely gets full. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography & Views

Many photographers recommend visiting in the morning for sunrise and exceptional photo opportunities. Sunsets are also stunning. InstagramReddit

You can see the entire Death Valley, including Badwater Basin (the lowest point in North America) and Telescope Peak (the highest point in the park). InstagramReddit

Absolutely! Dante's View is renowned for its incredibly dark skies, making it a prime location for stargazing and astrophotography. InstagramReddit

Yes, Dante's View was used as the filming location for Mos Eisley Spaceport in Star Wars: A New Hope. TikTok

Yes, there is a one-mile trail along the ridge that offers additional viewpoints and is suitable for most fitness levels. Reddit

🎫 🌡️ Weather & Comfort

Yes, due to its higher elevation, Dante's View is significantly cooler than the extreme temperatures found in Death Valley's lower elevations, offering a welcome respite. Reddit

It's advisable to wear layers, as it can be quite windy and cooler than the valley floor, especially during sunrise and sunset. Reddit

Yes, there is a rest and picnic area at Dante's View, making it a good spot to enjoy a meal with a view. TikTok

The main overlook area has a paved sidewalk, and the parking lot is close to the viewpoint, making it accessible for many visitors. The ridge trail may be more challenging. Reddit

The overlook can be very windy, with strong gusts. It's recommended to bring a windbreaker or wear wind-resistant clothing. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Dante's View offers a fantastic, accessible experience for families. The drive up, while winding, provides exciting views that can keep kids engaged. Once at the overlook, the paved sidewalk area is safe for younger children to explore under supervision. The sheer scale of the landscape is often awe-inspiring for kids, offering a great opportunity to talk about geography and the vastness of nature. Pack plenty of water and snacks, and be mindful of the wind. TikTokReddit

Consider visiting during the day to avoid potential fatigue from late-night stargazing or early morning sunrises. The short ridge trail is also manageable for families with older children who enjoy a bit of a walk. The cooler temperatures here compared to the valley floor can also make it a more comfortable outing for families during hotter months. Reddit

📸 Photographers and Stargazers

For photographers, Dante's View is a prime location. The panoramic vistas are stunning, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light creates dramatic contrasts and vibrant colors across the valley. InstagramReddit The unique geological formations and the expansive salt flats of Badwater Basin offer endless composition possibilities. Don't forget a wide-angle lens! Instagram

Stargazers will find Dante's View to be a celestial paradise. Its remote location and high elevation contribute to exceptionally dark skies, perfect for observing the Milky Way and countless stars. InstagramReddit Astrophotographers will appreciate the minimal light pollution, allowing for long exposures and capturing the beauty of the night sky. Visiting during a new moon phase will maximize your stargazing experience. Instagram

🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts

The drive to Dante's View is a highlight for road trip lovers. The winding, scenic route offers a sense of adventure and rewards travelers with increasingly spectacular views. Reddit It's a perfect stop on a larger Death Valley road trip, offering a dramatic change in perspective from the valley floor. TikTok

Ensure your vehicle is prepared for the climb, and take your time to enjoy the journey. The overlook itself provides a great place to stretch your legs, have a picnic, and marvel at the vastness of the desert landscape. It's a memorable stop that adds a significant 'wow' factor to any California road trip. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Epic Drive to Dante's View

The journey to Dante's View is an adventure in itself. The 13-mile road ascends steeply from Highway 190, offering increasingly dramatic vistas as you climb. This paved road is a testament to engineering in a rugged landscape, but it demands respect. Drivers should ensure their vehicle is in top condition, paying close attention to brakes and engine cooling, especially during warmer months. While accessible to most cars, the final stretch has restrictions for larger vehicles like RVs and trailers, so plan accordingly. The winding nature of the road means you'll want to take your time, stopping at pull-offs if available, to soak in the changing perspectives of Death Valley's vastness. Reddit+1

This drive is often highlighted by visitors as a significant part of the Dante's View experience. The transition from the stark desert floor to the elevated panorama is a visual treat. It's a reminder that Death Valley isn't just about the lowest point, but also the commanding heights that overlook its unique geology. The anticipation builds with every mile, making the arrival at the summit even more rewarding. TikTokInstagram

Photography and Stargazing at Dante's View

Dante's View is a photographer's and astronomer's dream. The panoramic views are spectacular at any time of day, but the golden hours of sunrise and sunset are particularly magical. The low-angled light casts dramatic shadows and illuminates the rugged mountain ranges and salt flats in hues of orange, pink, and purple. Many photographers prefer the morning light for its clarity and softer tones. InstagramReddit

As night falls, Dante's View transforms into an unparalleled stargazing location. Far from city lights, the desert sky explodes with stars. The Milky Way is often visible, and the sheer number of celestial bodies on display can be awe-inspiring. It's a place where you can feel truly connected to the cosmos. InstagramReddit For those interested in astrophotography, the dark skies offer incredible opportunities to capture star trails and the vastness of space. Instagram

Beyond the main overlook, a short trail along the ridge provides alternative angles for photos and a more immersive experience. Whether you're capturing the vastness of the desert landscape or the infinite expanse of the night sky, Dante's View offers endless visual inspiration. Reddit

Geological and Historical Significance

Dante's View offers a profound geological perspective on Death Valley. Perched at 5,475 feet, it provides a commanding overlook of Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level. This dramatic elevation difference highlights the extreme topography of the region. From this vantage point, you can also see Telescope Peak, the park's highest point, further emphasizing the valley's unique geological formation. The visible rock layers and the vast salt flats of Badwater Basin tell a story of ancient lakes, tectonic activity, and the relentless forces of erosion. InstagramReddit

Historically, Dante's View has also gained fame as a filming location. It was famously used as the setting for Mos Eisley Spaceport in the original Star Wars movie, 'A New Hope.' This connection draws many fans to the site, adding a layer of pop culture significance to its natural wonders. TikTok The name 'Dante's View' itself evokes a sense of awe and perhaps a touch of the infernal, fitting for the extreme environment of Death Valley. Instagram