David Rajter
Death Valley National Park, CA
In California’s Death Valley National Park, the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes beckon travelers and photographers. The dunes are not trailed, so you can wander to your heart’s desire. Many visitors come to take photos at sunset or sunrise when dramatic shadows are cast down, while others come to sandboard without visiting Egypt or Dubai.
The basics
If you’re planning to explore the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes on your own, you can easily find parking near the dunes and walk around the area, taking in the sights. Many visitors either stay for about two hours, trekking around, or they just get out to take a few photos as the sand gets hot.
Another option is to book a Death Valley National Park highlights group tour that stops at the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. These tours usually take off from Las Vegas and return you back afterward for an easy day trip.
Things to know before you go
- The sand gets very hot during the day—if you’re planning on visiting in the heat, make sure to protect your feet and not to wear sandals.
- The Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes are home to sidewinder rattlesnakes—make sure to be careful if you’re walking in the dunes at dawn or dusk, when these venomous snakes are most active.
- Come prepared with enough water and other necessities— there’s no cell phone coverage at the dunes.
How to get there
The Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes are the easiest dunes to visit in Death Valley, and they’re right off Highway 190 at the center of the national park. From the entrance to Death Valley, continue to Daylight Pass Road and then turn left at Scotty’s Castle Road before taking CA-190 right to the dunes
When to get there
The best time of year to visit the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes is from November to April, when the area’s extreme heat isn’t at its worst yet. Also, sunrise and sunset are perfect times to see shadows on the dunes for prime photo ops.
Visit Twenty Mule Team Canyon, too
While in Death Valley National Park, make a stop at Twenty Mule Team Canyon. The eroded badland hills of the canyon are a park-visitor favorite, just about a 30-minute drive from the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. Make sure you check the road conditions at Twenty Mule Team Canyon before your visit.
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