Just four hours away from Los Angeles, these scenic sand dunes offer such dreamy landscapes you’d think you were in the middle of the Saharan desert. The Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes are the most accessible of all the sand dunes in Death Valley. Therefore, they can be quite popular, and at times, crowded. Read on for tips on exploring the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes.
HOW TO GET THERE
Park at the lot just east of Stovepipe Wells on Highway 190. There is ample parking as well as basic bathroom facilities. Although it may be tempting, off-roading is not permitted in Death Valley National Park.
It's incredible that these wavelike ripples are formed by the wind
HIKING TO THE DUNES
From the parking lot, head north towards the vast sea of sand. There are no designated hiking trails here, so feel free to explore to your heart’s content. Just be aware that things are a lot further than they appear and the tallest & most remote dunes take at least 30 minutes to walk to. It’s a relatively easy 2 mile round trip hike to get to the most pristine of sand dunes. Some are pretty steep and getting sand in your shoes is unavoidable!
WHEN SHOULD YOU VISIT?
Spring through fall is the ideal time to visit Death Valley. Although it can still reach high temperatures during these seasons, the weather is still bearable. Arrive at the dunes early or late in the day to avoid the heat. Weekday trips also help offset crowds.
The most remote dunes are usually the least frequented by visitors
THINGS TO NOTE
It costs $30 to enter Death Valley National Park. The fee grants you access to Death Valley as well as any other national park for 7 days from the date of purchase.
There is extremely limited cell service within the park.
Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles. Always pack out what you bring in.
Mesquite trees scattered across the sand
WHAT TO BRING WITH YOU
Water. With daytime temperatures often reaching up to 113 F, Death Valley isn’t called the hottest place on earth for nothing.
Snacks. Stores are few and far between in the park. I recommend stocking up at the general store in nearby Stovepipe Wells.
Comfortable shoes.
Sunscreen and/or hat. Keep in mind there is NO shade.
Sand boards/sand sleds. Sand boarding, sand sledding, and sand skiing are permitted at Mesquite Flats Sand Dunes. Although I have yet to try sand boarding, it looks so thrilling!
The dunes in the background were the tallest ones in the area
Interested in visiting the tallest sand dunes in North America? Also in California, the Eureka Sand Dunes are approximately 2.5 hours north of Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. However, you’ll need a 4×4 to reach them!
Hi, I'm Shiz! I'm a speech language pathologist from Los Angeles with a serious case of wanderlust. I especially love wandering off the beaten path and photographing jaw-dropping vistas. I hope you'll join me on my adventures for savvy travel tips and destination guides!
