Sunset Hike at Dante's View

Sunset Hike at Dante's View in Death Valley National Park

A woman stands at Dante's View in Death Valley, looking out to Telescope Peak and Manly Lake, Badwater Basin below.

It’s one of the world’s best places to watch a sunset. Dante’s View is a 5,476-foot vantage of the whole southern basin of Death Valley from the top of the Black Mountains. On clear days you get views of both the highest and lowest points in the contiguous U.S. 

Arrive before sunset and from the large parking area head north and up a spur trail overlooking the lowest point in North America, Badwater Basin. The basin is sometimes graced with a temporary oasis, Manly Lake (pictured below); the lake is created and replenished by atmospheric river storms. It could be called Mirror Manly Lake because of the incredible reflections the water mirrors from the surrounding mountains.

Within a few minutes on the trail you’ll see a spur trail to an obvious outcropping where you can take a seat or give a standing ovation to the storied scenery.

Epic is not an understatement here as you scan the panorama: Badwater Basin’s temporary and luminous Manly Lake reflects the day’s sinking sun rays while mirroring the massive Telescope Peak in the background. And the views keep going: a valley-to-peaks layered expanse as far as your eyes can see—from mountains to the east in Nevada all the way west across the Panamint range and to Mount Whitney—the highest point in the Lower 48.

The viewpoint has enough safe and flat space to enjoy the view without climbing on top of the jagged outcroppings, though if you insist, mind your footing and knot your shoelaces. The sky settles into an ember glow, and then turns Barbie pink and marigold before navy sets in and stars start winking. Head back to your car before you lose too much light—bring a headlamp or flashlight for extra assurance.

Directions to Dante’s View: Turn off at Hwy. 190 east of Furnace Creek, and follow the signs for Dante’s View. Map. No dogs.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Gentle Giants

    Some people visit national parks to marvel at the iconic sights, while others come seeking solitude in nature. With visitation on the rise, it can be hard to find both. But in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, this pair of trails offers both....

    View
  2. Screaming Good Garden

    Combine a classic scary movie backdrop and life-size elephant garden sculptures in beautiful downtown Sonoma.

    View
  3. A Hike to the Past

    This 5.2-mile redwoods hike through El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space combines a relaxing stroll with unique geologic formations and historical artifacts.

    View
  4. Golden Mile

    Dubbed the Golden Mile, this car-free stretch of road in Golden Gate Park features rotating art installations of murals, sculptures, and abundant bright yellow Adirondack chairs for kicking back to relax. See Naga, the recent new addition here, an impressive sea serpent art installation at Golden Gate Park's Rainbow

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Sponsored

    Chase Fall Colors & Family Fun in Reno Tahoe

    Ready to Reno? We’re so with you! Reno Tahoe is the ultimate urban basecamp for gathering family and friends for all kinds of fall fun and festivities.

    View
  2. Welcome to the Ice Age

    Only in LA can you stumble upon a lake of bubbling black goo right in the middle of the city—complete with a life-size family of mammoths frozen in time. Take a whiff and you’ll catch the unmistakable scent of asphalt: Yep, you’ve made it to the La Brea Tar Pits & Museum.

    View
  3. Griffith's Golden

    With over 4,200 acres and hundreds of trails, Griffith Park is the gold standard. Opt for the lesser-hiked northwestern end of the park and visit the 2.25-mile Skyline and Oak Canyon loop from Travel Town.

    View
  4. Mulholland's Most Majestic

    Take a leisurely drive along Mulholland Drive to discover beautiful urban scenery and unexpected wild beauty, right in the middle of the city. 

    View