Dune Swoon

Sunset at Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes in Death Valley National Park

02.17.2021
Woman standing on top of a sand dune at Mesquite Flat in Death Valley National Park at Sunset

Of all the places to catch a sunset in Death Valley, we still think there’s none better than the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. Located 2 miles east of Stovepipe Wells (where you can find a General Store and bathroom), these marquee dunes of Death Valley inspire many things, including log rolls, cartwheels, and plenty of selfies.

Park in the large lot off Highway 190 and be sure to bring a flashlight or headlamp because you’re likely to want to linger longer after sunset, and sand-walking can be slow going. Nevertheless, pack a picnic and start walking north to the dune of your desire. That tallest one is about a mile away. Pick your spot and climb the spine or run upward (surprisingly hard work).

Woman walking to a sand dune at Mesuqite Flat Sand Dunes in Death Valley

Spread a blanket or sit on your pack and break out your picnic while waiting for the big show … the dunes are so vast here you’re able to have some privacy even if it’s busy. As the sun sets, the colors across the mountains shift from rose to violet. Don’t leave too soon ... this is a choice spot for a little stargazing or getting some entertainment from your moon shadow. Just be sure to head back before it gets too dark … and keep an eye out for the shadow figures of the elusive desert fox or coyote … the thrills keep coming.

Woman on sand dune at Mesquite Flat at sunset in Death Valley National Park

Sunrise Bonus: Where do you go for a heavenly sunrise? Dante’s View, a 5,476-foot vantage of the whole southern basin of Death Valley from the top of the Black Mountains. Bring a thermos of coffee and a good morning attitude (ahem), then watch as the sky gives way to the hot pink band inching up.

Hiker at Dante

When it’s light enough, explore the short trails here for more perspectives and, of course, rise-and-shine selfies. If you have a really crisp and clear morning, you can contrast the lowest and highest points in the contiguous US: Badwater (Death Valley) and Mount Whitney (Sierra).

Directions to Dante's View: Turn off at Hwy. 190 east of Furnace Creek, and follow the signs for Dante’s View.

LISTEN TO THE PODCAST: In the episode "Life and Death Experience" Weekend Sherpa co-founders Brad and Holly recorded part of their podcast from the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. Listen to the conversations about their favorite adventures in Death Valley.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Perles Beach Angel Island San Francisco Bay

    Secret Beach

    A hidden beach and a killer view? Those are hard to come by, but that’s exactly what you’ll get at Perles Beach on Angel Island. Bike or hike to this beautiful pocket cove.

    View

  2. Peak at the Flowers

    Terrific views and vibrant hues define this 4.8-mile out-and-back journey on Mount Diablo.

    View
  3. Hike Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve

    Mellow in the Marsh

    Beach, birds, ice plant popping purple flowers: That’s a hiking slam dunk! Hike about 2 miles at Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve using their easy to navigate (well-signed) Sequoia Audubon Trail.

    View
  4. A man is looking through his binoculars at sunrise at the Bayland Nature Preserve in Palo Alto

    Baylands Bird & Art Loop

    Combine an outdoor art walk and wildlife sightings at the Baylands Nature Preserve in Palo Alto. This 5-mile loop through Byxbee Park and the Emily Renzel Wetlands features striking installations by artists Peter Richards and Michael Oppenheimer—where the landscape itself becomes part of the canvas.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Sponsored

    No Limits Family Trip: Reno Tahoe

    What if your next family getaway didn’t come with a set agenda—just the freedom to go where the day takes you? Find yourselves in Reno Tahoe, a land of no limits and plenty of outdoor bounty.

    View

  2. Tree Town

    Home to an estimated 21,000 trees and 100 acres of parkland, South Pasadena has earned its nickname: the City of Trees. This 2.5-mile neighborhood walk lets you experience its leafy canopy up close, winding through charming streets and three of the city’s beloved parks.

    View
  3. Fountain to Falls trail Monrovia

    Fountain to the Falls

    There are three ways to reach the lovely Monrovia Canyon Falls, but only one of them is worthy of being named a good challenge, with a lovely old town stroll included.

    View

  4. A Better Way to Baldwin

    The Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook in Culver City is one of West L.A.’s most popular hiking spots, but most visitors miss the bigger picture. This 3.5-mile out-and-back along a section of the Park to Playa Trail offers a fuller experience of this gorgeous nature park with sweeping urban views and a few artistic surprises along the way.

    View