Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes (wind)

@rossschram

California

•

Stovepipe Wells

Death Valley is truly a photographer's paradise — with more shapes, textures and patterns than one could ever hope to find in nature. Many people expect most of Death Valley to be covered in sand, but in reality less than 1% of the park is sand dunes, so once I'm inside the park, there's no doubt that these unique sand dunes are my first stop and favorite subject.

Plan

Overview

Skill level

Easy

Accessbility

Public Location

Hours

Anytime

Fee

Free

Pack

Telephoto lens (270mm)
Wide angle lens (optional)
Sturdy tripod
Proper footwear for hiking in sand
Face covering (bandana)
Sunglasses
Camera protection from sand (it can be very windy, 15-20mph+)
Water
Snacks
Sunscreen

How to get there

N36° 36' 44.3304"W117° 06' 15.804"

This image was taken of the Mesquite Flat San Dunes in Stovepipe Wells, which is a part of Death Valley. This location must be accessed by car. It's recommended to drive 22.4 mi (36 km) west on Highway 190 and then park your car in the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes Parking (36.606029, -117.116142). Feel free to park in the main lot and walk in from there, but I've found that I prefer parking further east near a river washout (36.608797, -117.085412) and then walking in from there. Most of the compositions I've been happy with I've found closer to east/southeast side of the dunes, so parking further east should be best. Sand dunes are always changing due to wind and light angles so be prepared to spend some time scouting out the area and putting in time to really explore the area.