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Lookout · Furnace Creek, California
Zabriskie Point
Overlook over a maze of eroded hills in shades of yellow, brown and beige, with Manly Beacon ahead and the valley salt flat in the background, a few minutes from Furnace Creek.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Zabriskie Point
Zabriskie Point sits on a ridge above Death Valley’s badlands, sedimentary hills from ancient lakes that erosion carved into gullies and ridges. Colors range from yellow to brown and beige, with dark lava streaks, and change with the light. In front rises Manly Beacon, a carved rock spire, and in the background the valley salt flat with the Panamint Mountains.
The name honors Christian Zabriskie, manager of a company that extracted borax in the region in the early 20th century. The borax was taken out of the valley by mule-drawn wagons, a story told at the Furnace Creek visitor center.
From the parking lot a short paved ramp leads to the overlook. For walkers, trails descend into the badlands, such as the one that follows Golden Canyon to Manly Beacon and the Red Cathedral.
It is one of the park’s most popular sunrise spots, when side light sculpts the hills.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 30 minutes to an hour at the overlook; trails take two to four hours.
Best time
At sunrise, when the light enhances the hills’ gullies. In summer, trails only early.
How to get there
It is about 8 km from Furnace Creek on Highway 190, with parking by the overlook ramp.
Tip
Arrive before dawn to get a spot in the parking lot. Bring a jacket in winter: desert mornings are cold.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Zabriskie Point
When should you go to Zabriskie Point?
At sunrise, when side light emphasizes the grooves and colors of the hills. Late afternoon is also beautiful, with the valley already in shadow.
Do you need to walk far to reach the Zabriskie Point overlook?
No. A short paved ramp goes from the parking area to the overlook. Those who wish can descend into the Badlands via longer trails.
Which trails start from Zabriskie Point?
Trails descend through the Badlands to Golden Canyon, passing near Manly Beacon and Red Cathedral. These are routes of a few hours, without shade; go early and carry water.