Badlands Loop Trail
Iconic viewpoint in Death Valley National Park, famous for its surreal badlands and breathtaking sunrise/sunset vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light on the badlands
Badlands Loop Trail
Best Time
Magical light on the badlands
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic viewpoint in Death Valley National Park, famous for its surreal badlands and breathtaking sunrise/sunset vistas.
"The view is stunning—like standing on another planet."
🌅 Arrive Early for Sunrise
Secure a prime spot for the sunrise spectacle; crowds can be significant. :sunriseovermountains:
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Death Valley is extremely hot. Stay hydrated to avoid heat-related issues. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Zabriskie Point Sunrise
Death Valley National Park
Witness the badlands glow in a symphony of colors as the sun ascends. A truly magical experience.
Zabriskie Point Sunset
Death Valley National Park
The layered hills transform into a canvas of gold, brown, and red as the sun dips below the horizon.
Badlands Landscape Views
Various overlooks along Badlands Loop Road
Explore unique rock formations and layered geological history. Stunning vistas at every turn.
Notch Trail Adventure
Badlands National Park
A short hike with a ladder climb leading to dramatic canyon views. An adventurous must-do!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Sunrise/Sunset
Beat the Heat and Stay Hydrated
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Arrive Early for Sunrise
Secure a prime spot for the sunrise spectacle; crowds can be significant. :sunriseovermountains:
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Death Valley is extremely hot. Stay hydrated to avoid heat-related issues. :droplet:
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, especially during midday visits. :sunwithface:
🥾 Short but Steep Walk
The path to Zabriskie Point is short but can be steep; wear comfortable shoes. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Arrive Early for Sunrise
Secure a prime spot for the sunrise spectacle; crowds can be significant. :sunriseovermountains:
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Death Valley is extremely hot. Stay hydrated to avoid heat-related issues. :droplet:
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, especially during midday visits. :sunwithface:
🥾 Short but Steep Walk
The path to Zabriskie Point is short but can be steep; wear comfortable shoes. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Colors
The changing light offers incredible photo opportunities.
🚗 Drive the Loop Road
Experience diverse landscapes and overlooks along the scenic Badlands Loop Road.
🧗♀️ Climb the Notch Trail Ladder
The iconic ladder climb is part of the adventure for stunning views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Zabriskie Point's stunning, otherworldly badlands views, especially at sunrise and sunset, calling it a must-see in Death Valley. The short, accessible walk makes it easy to enjoy. However, be prepared for intense heat and significant crowds during peak viewing times.
"I woke up very early to be here for sunrise. I thought I would be all alone, but there were around 100 people there as well, but all were very nice and we had good conversations while waiting for the sun to greet the day. Death Valley at sunrise takes on a magical feeling, well worth getting up early to see."
Dan Quaas
"Zabriskie Point is one of the absolute must-see spots in Death Valley. The view is stunning—like standing on another planet. The badlands stretch out in layered shades of gold, brown, and red, with the Panamint Mountains in the distance. It’s especially magical at sunrise or sunset when the light hits the hills just right and everything glows.
The walk up from the parking lot is short but a little steep, so bring water and sunscreen, especially in the summer—it gets brutally hot. Even though it’s a quick stop, the view is unforgettable and totally worth it.
If you’re driving through Death Valley, don’t skip this. It’s one of those iconic views that really captures the surreal beauty of the park."
Nook H
"This place is stunning, amazing views, but please remember to bring water, it's very hot (the hottest place in the world) was 127f when I was there.
Make it fast take some pictures, and get back to your car (and make sure your car has good AC)"
Eilish Wertheimer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Zabriskie Point is easily accessible by car, located off Badlands Loop Road (Highway 190) in Death Valley National Park. There's a parking lot with a short, paved path leading to the viewpoint.
Yes, the Badlands Loop Road (Highway 240) in Badlands National Park is a paved scenic byway, making it accessible for most vehicles.
Absolutely! Zabriskie Point is a drive-up viewpoint with a dedicated parking area, making it very convenient to access.
Driving the Badlands Loop Road and stopping at various overlooks is a popular way to see the park. Hiking trails like Notch Trail and Door Trail offer more immersive experiences.
There is no public transportation directly to Zabriskie Point. You'll need your own vehicle or to join a guided tour that includes this stop.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Zabriskie Point is located within Death Valley National Park, which requires an entrance fee per vehicle. This fee is valid for 7 days.
Zabriskie Point is open 24 hours a day, year-round, as it's an outdoor viewpoint within the national park.
Yes, Badlands National Park has an entrance fee per vehicle, which is valid for 7 days.
The entrance fee for Badlands National Park covers access to all trails within the park.
America the Beautiful Pass holders get free entry into Death Valley and Badlands National Parks. Check the NPS website for other potential discounts.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main activity is enjoying the panoramic views of the badlands, especially during sunrise and sunset. You can also hike down to Golden Canyon Trail from here if you have time.
For sunrise or sunset, plan for 2-3 hours to experience the changing light. A quick stop for photos can be as short as 30 minutes.
Key overlooks include Big Badlands, Pinnacles, Panorama Point, Conata Basin, and Yellow Mounds.
The Notch Trail is considered moderate due to the ladder climb. It's 1.2 miles roundtrip with some elevation gain, but the views are rewarding.
While Zabriskie Point is more about the landscape, keep an eye out for desert bighorn sheep, coyotes, and various bird species in other parts of Death Valley.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset are considered the 'golden hours' for photography, offering dramatic lighting and vibrant colors on the badlands.
Use a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive landscape. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions during sunrise/sunset.
Yes, numerous pull-offs along the Badlands Loop Road offer fantastic photo opportunities of the unique geological formations.
Drone usage is restricted in Death Valley National Park. Check the NPS website for current regulations before flying.
Expect dramatic canyon vistas and unique perspectives of the Badlands formations from the top of the Notch Trail.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
In Badlands National Park, the Door Trail and Window Trail are short, easy boardwalks perfect for families to explore the unique formations up close. The Notch Trail offers a bit more adventure with its ladder, which can be exciting for older children, but requires supervision. Driving the Badlands Loop Road with frequent stops at overlooks is also a family-friendly way to see the park's highlights.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Beyond Zabriskie Point, explore other viewpoints in Death Valley and the numerous overlooks along the Badlands Loop Road for diverse photographic opportunities. The Notch Trail provides dramatic canyon shots, while the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes (though not directly at Zabriskie Point) offer a different, striking desert landscape.
🚗 Road Trippers
If you're road-tripping through South Dakota, the Badlands Loop Road is a scenic drive that connects many of the park's highlights. Combine it with hikes like the Notch Trail or Door Trail for a comprehensive experience. Many road trip itineraries include Badlands National Park as a key stop.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geological Marvel of Zabriskie Point
Visitors often describe the view as otherworldly, like stepping onto another planet. The panoramic vista stretches out, showcasing the intricate patterns carved by wind and water. This makes it an incredibly photogenic spot, especially during the 'golden hours' of sunrise and sunset when the light dramatically enhances the textures and colors of the formations.
While the main viewpoint is easily accessible, those seeking a closer look can hike down to the Golden Canyon Trail. This offers a more intimate experience with the badlands, allowing you to walk among the formations and appreciate their scale and detail. Remember to bring plenty of water and sun protection if you plan to explore further.
Experiencing the Notch Trail Adventure
While the ladder climb is the most challenging part, it's manageable for most visitors with moderate fitness. The effort is rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding canyons and the iconic badlands formations. It's a fantastic spot for photography and to truly appreciate the rugged beauty of the park.
It's recommended to wear sturdy shoes for this hike, as the terrain can be uneven, and the ladder requires good grip. Like all activities in the Badlands, be prepared for varying weather conditions and bring water, especially during warmer months.
Sunrise and Sunset Spectacles
Many visitors arrive well before dawn or stay after dusk to witness this phenomenon. Be prepared for company, as it's a popular spot, but the shared experience often adds to the atmosphere. The short, steep walk from the parking lot is worth every step for the unforgettable views.
While Zabriskie Point is the star, other overlooks along the Badlands Loop Road also offer stunning sunset and sunrise views. Consider exploring spots like White Valley Overlook or Hay Butte for potentially fewer crowds and different perspectives on the dramatic landscape.
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