Top 5 Must-See Scenic Vistas in California's Deserts

Iconic city viewpoints like the Eiffel Tower or Empire State Building top many urban itineraries, satisfying our innate urge to survey expansive landscapes below. California's deserts elevate this experience, swapping urban lights for starlit skies and nature's sculpted wonders. Here are the top 5 vistas for your desert adventure.

Zabriskie Point | Death Valley National Park

This renowned overlook in Death Valley National Park inspired a 1970 film of the same name. Built by the Pacific Coast Borax Company in the 1920s and named for vice president Christian Zabriskie, it was originally a stop en route to Manly Beacon amid the badlands. Today, its dramatic vistas of eroded gulches, canyons, and vibrant colors draw photographers worldwide, especially at sunrise. Recently reopened after winter rehabilitation, it features enhanced safety and new benches.

Find it: A short walk from the parking lot near Furnace Creek Campground on Highway 190.

Dante’s View | Death Valley National Park

Atop the Black Mountains (5,500 feet), Dante’s View offers unparalleled panoramas of Death Valley, including the U.S.'s lowest point (Badwater Basin, 282 feet below sea level) and highest (Mt. Whitney, 14,494 feet), plus the Panamint Mountains and Telescope Peak (11,049 feet). Named for Dante Alighieri in 1926 by borax company promoters, it remains a desert highlight.

Find it: Via Furnace Creek Wash Road to Dante’s View Road; the final paved mile is steep and winding—no trailers.

Father Crowley Vista | Death Valley National Park

Often uncrowded, Father Crowley Vista honors pioneer priest John Crowley. Perched atop switchbacks between Owens and Death Valleys, it overlooks Rainbow Canyon's 1,000-foot volcanic walls and northern Panamint Valley horizons.

Find it: On Highway 190 between Lone Pine and the Death Valley Visitor Center; 1.2-mile easy trail to the summit.

Keys View | Joshua Tree National Park

A short paved loop leads to Keys View on the Little San Bernardino Mountains crest, revealing Coachella Valley, Salton Sea, Santa Rosa Mountains, and San Jacinto Peak (10,800 feet). Spot the San Andreas Fault and, on clear days, Mexico's Signal Mountain. Named for homesteader Bill Keys, a colorful figure linked to 'Death Valley' Scotty and a overturned manslaughter conviction.

Find it: 500-foot paved loop trail in the park.

Font's Point | Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Dubbed California's Grand Canyon, Font's Point in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park surveys colorful badlands named for Spanish explorer Pedro Font. Sunrise and sunset transform the ridges and hills, attracting photographers and stargazers.

Find it: From Highway S-22, turn right into Font's Point Wash, then left on the one-way loop to parking; half-mile walk.