Dantes View looks down on Death Valley from 5,575 feet on the ridge of the Black Mountains, with Badwater Basin more than a mile below and the Panamint Range across the valley. It is the highest of the park's drive-up viewpoints and runs much cooler than the valley floor.
Details
- Type
- Overlook
- Accessibility
- Limited accessibility
Last verified: 6/13/2026
Overview
From the overlook you can take in the lowest point in North America (Badwater Basin, at 282 feet below sea level) and, on a clear day, the highest in the contiguous states (Mount Whitney, about 85 miles west). The Black Mountains fall away steeply to the salt flats, which from this height read as a pale river winding down the valley. Short ridge trails lead from the parking area to wider views.
Getting There
The paved spur to Dantes View leaves CA-190 near Furnace Creek and climbs to the parking area; the final grade is steep and closed to vehicles over 25 feet. Plan on about an hour each way from Furnace Creek.
Know Before You Go
At 5,575 feet the view can run 20 to 25 degrees cooler than the valley floor, and it is often windy, so bring a layer. Sunrise and sunset are the prime times. There is no water or services at the overlook.