One of the most iconic views in the park, noted for its film history and its role as the album cover for U2's Joshua Tree. The walk from the parking lot to the overlook is short and paved but steep.   

Our favorite view in the park! Though there are trails leading away from the parking lot, there's no need to stray from the overlook over 5,000 feet above Death Valley, with the Panamint Range beyond. From the overlook, if you look to the right, you may recognize the establishing shot of dodgy spaceport Mos Eisley from Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope. This is also a popular place to view the sunset, though you may want to plan ahead and come early to guarantee a parking spot.      

Though there are no official trails, you're welcome to wander into the sand dunes here. Sunsets are especially spectacular. And, this is yet another filming location for Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope. Standing at the parking lot and facing the sand dunes, you may recognize the mountains to your right as the backdrop behind droid R2-D2, as he separates from C-3PO after crash landing into the dunes in an escape pod.   

The lowest point in North America, and the highlight of a trip to Death Valley. There's a boardwalk by the parking lot, but you're welcome to wander into the valley on the Badwater Basin trail.

A colorful cliff, with different minerals present, distinguishes itself from the surrounding brown desert. You can enjoy the cliffs from the parking area, or explore by foot. George Lucas filmed a quick shot of R2-D2 lost in the desert here. To find the spot, go down into the canyon from the parking area, turn left, walk about 30-40 paces, then turn around and face where you walked from.

Explore what's left of the earliest mining operation in Death Valley. Placards throughout the short path interpret the various buildings and mechanisms required to process borax. You'll also see one of the wagons pulled by the famed 20-mule teams.

Stovepipe Wells is a way-station in the northern part of the park. There's restrooms, lodging, a restaurant and saloon, gas station and even a gift shop with typical souvenirs, apparel, and snacks.

A must-stop for information, flush toilets, a water refill station, and a museum with excellent displays on the natural and human history of Death Valley. Be sure to watch the 20-minute film narrated by actor Donald Sutherland, and to get a picture next to the gigantic thermometer displaying the day's temperature. If you didn't purchase a park pass at the entrance station, you can do so here. Open 8am-5pm daily.

These kilns were built in 1877 and owned by the Modock Consolidated Mining Company, but they only saw a few years of action. They haven’t been used for a long time, but if you take a peek inside and inhale, some say you can still smell the soot! If nature calls, there's a restroom right next to the kilns.