Zabriskie Point is one of Death Valley National Park's most iconic overlooks, offering sweeping views of golden-and-brown badlands sculpted from ancient lakebed sediments, with the eroded peak Manly Beacon as the centerpiece and the Panamint Mountains and valley salt flats visible in the distance. It's a favorite among photographers for its dramatic shifts in color and light at sunrise and sunset, and it has appeared in film (Michelangelo Antonioni's Zabriskie Point) and album art (U2's The Joshua Tree). As of July 2026, the overlook remains open year-round on a paved, wheelchair-accessible path, though the park is still completing road repairs from severe flood damage in recent years, and summer heat safety should be taken seriously at this time of year.
Rippled, striped badlands formed from ancient lakebed sediment (Furnace Creek Formation)
Distant views of the Panamint Mountains and Death Valley's salt flats
Dramatic color and light shifts at sunrise and sunset, a top photography spot
Trailhead access to the Golden Canyon / Gower Gulch badlands loop
Good to know
SafetyMidday July temperatures can approach or exceed 120°F (49°C); the short paved walk from the parking lot (about 0.25 mi/0.4 km each way) has no shade, so visit early morning or evening and carry more water than you think you'll need
SafetyWatch for rattlesnakes and scorpions hiding in rocky crevices, keep hands and feet out of blind spots, and never feed wildlife such as coyotes
SeasonSummer monsoon season (roughly July–September) can bring sudden flash floods in nearby canyons; check the park's official Alerts & Conditions page before heading into Golden Canyon or Gower Gulch
RulesSeveral park roads are still under repair following major flood damage in recent years — verify current road status on the official NPS site before planning a route beyond Zabriskie Point
RulesEntrance fees are card or digital payment only (no cash accepted); buying a pass online in advance or at a fee machine saves time
MannersThe overlook gets very crowded at sunrise and sunset with photographers and tripods; arrive 40–60 minutes early to secure parking and be considerate of others' shots
CautionUse only official NPS or Recreation.gov channels for entrance passes; avoid unofficial roadside 'parking assistance' or ticket resellers, and fill up on fuel before entering the park, since gas stations in and near Death Valley are scarce and often expensive
Practical info
The nearest major airport is Las Vegas, about 2–2.5 hours away by rental car (via Highway 190, among other routes); Zabriskie Point sits roughly 15 minutes east of Furnace Creek Visitor Center, and a car is essential since there is no shuttle service. Entrance fees, hours, and current conditions are subject to change, so confirm the latest details on the official NPS Death Valley website before your visit.
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