2025 Inyo County Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in March)

Dante's view is one of my favorite viewpoints in the Death Valley. It’s high up on a mountain where you can see the whole valley below. It is good to visit before or after Badwater Basin cause these two are pretty close to each other. The drive up is a bit curvy, but once you get there, the view is incredible. The view is absolutely stunning. And during the winter, you can see some snow on the peaks at the horizon. Tip: Go early or late in the day to avoid the heat and catch the best light. One more tip: there is a little path that leads from the parking lot pretty far along the hilltop. It's really worth to walk for a few minutes before you choose the best spot - the more you walk the better the views become. #internationaltravel #voyagevibes #100waysoftravel #myhiddengems #traveldiaries #nationalparks #usa

#usatrip A winters trip chasing the sun through Death Valley. Our trip started at 4.30 in the morning from Las Vegas with a quiet drive over to Death Valley. Our first stop was sunrise at Badwater Basin. At this time of year the basin was flooded making for breath taking views and reflections. Next we stoped at Devils golf course and onto Artists pallet for a quick snack break. At around lunchtime we stopped at the Ranch for a swim and bite to eat. Highly recommend doing this, the water is spring fed and amazing, even on a winters day! Our final stop was sunset at Zabriskie Point. We followed the trail and encountered few people. The main point and photo spot from the car park was very busy though! #usatrip #100waysoftravel #deathvalley #Badwaterbasin

#naturalbeauty Located in the heart of California's Death Valley National Park, the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes present a landscape of stark beauty and surreal formations. These iconic sand dunes, easily accessible and visually stunning, offer visitors a glimpse into a dynamic desert environment that feels both timeless and otherworldly. Captivating Natural Beauty The Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes are among the most photographed features in Death Valley due to their classic undulating shapes and the dramatic shadows they cast, especially at sunrise and sunset. The dunes vary in size, with some reaching heights of over 100 feet. The contrast of golden sands against the backdrop of rugged desert mountains creates a perfect setting for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Activities and Exploration Walking and sandboarding are popular activities on the dunes. The soft sand underfoot makes hiking a challenging but rewarding endeavor. Early morning or late afternoon treks are recommended, not only to avoid the midday heat but also to enjoy the dunes at their most visually appealing. The shifting light at these times enhances the textures and contours of the sand, providing a magical experience. Visitor Tips - Best Times to Visit: Aim for early morning or late evening to catch the softest light and avoid the intense heat of midday. Sunrise and sunset are particularly spectacular, as the low light casts long, shifting shadows across the dune surface. - Safety First: Carry plenty of water, wear sun protection, and be mindful of the temperature, which can soar, especially in summer. - Leave No Trace: As always in natural settings, adhere to "Leave No Trace" principles. Be mindful of your impact on the fragile desert ecosystem. - Navigation: While exploring, keep in mind that there are no marked trails on the sand dunes, so it's important to have a good sense of direction or a GPS device. Ideal Itinerary 1. Arrival and Setup: Arrive the evening before your full day at the dunes to camp nearby or stay in accommodations within Death Valley. 2. Sunrise: Start early to hike and photograph the dunes in the soft morning light. 3. Daytime Exploration: Post-sunrise, consider a drive to nearby points of interest in Death Valley like Badwater Basin or the Furnace Creek area. 4. Sunset: Return to the dunes in the late afternoon to catch the changing colors and cooler temperatures. 5. Stargazing: After dark, take advantage of Death Valley's famous dark skies for some of the best stargazing in the world.

#usatravel #california This is one of the most scenic roads we have ever traveled. It felt like we were on Mars or another planet, unlike Earth. A straight road as far as the eye can see stretches through expansive desert vistas, rugged mountains, and unique geological formations. It felt like we were driving on an endless road surrounded by orange landscapes and mountains, which made this road truly unique. Death Valley is known for recording some of the highest temperatures on Earth. Traveling SR 190 offers a firsthand experience of this extreme environment, so please make sure to stay hydrated when traveling on this extreme road. While SR 190 traverses one of the most remote areas in the United States, it is a well-maintained highway, making the extreme landscape accessible to visitors. The road connects key points of interest within Death Valley National Park, including Furnace Creek, Stovepipe Wells, and Panamint Springs, providing essential services like lodging, dining, and visitor information. SR 190 provides a stunning and unique way to experience Death Valley National Park, making it a popular route for both tourists and locals.

Visiting the Artist's Palette in Death Valley was a magical experience. This stunning location features vibrant, colorful rocks ranging from red, yellow, green, to blue, resulting from metal oxidation over time. Driving across the path to the site was fun, each turn revealing a new and magnificent view. Standing before this natural painting felt like standing before a colossal piece of art. The colors change with the sunlight, adding a magical touch to the visit. It was a moment to reflect on the beauty and uniqueness of nature, making me appreciate the artistic power of the Earth. The return was filled with inspiration and the beauty of nature.

Snow or Sand? This is the Death Valley National Park, 3.5 hours drive from Los Angeles. This was the first National Park I visited in my 15 day long holiday in the United States. As a city boy myself, I will always jump at any opportunity to head out to the outdoors and with this being the first park of our trip, it was especially refreshing and...liberating. To see the vast expense of land under a clear blue sky that was thankfully not too hot as it was the winter, what a magical feeling it was! These are some of the places that I enjoyed during my short visiting this park: 1. Badwater Basin 2. Devil's Golf Course (can see salt flats here too!) 3. Dante's View for the panoramic view 4. Zabriskie Point (take a hike to see more coloured mountains!) #WinHKFlight #winhkflight To me, Hong Kong is a holiday destination that offers an eclectic mix of culture, outdoors, nightlife, food and history! I want to travel to Hong Kong to view the skyline from Victoria Peak, trundle along and observe the city on the "Ding Ding", grab an afternoon tea at a local Char Chan Teng and...so much more!

The fairy tale of autumn - October Eastern California, California, is the most colorful season of the year. In the area of the North Lake of Bishop Canyon, the forest is full of colors, the blue sky is washed, the autumn water is clear, and the scenery is picturesque. Even the stars of the Stars are enjoying themselves.

Hey ladies, the Qingming Festival holiday is coming soon! We've prepared a super detailed 12-day US travel guide for you, so you can easily explore America. Save it now! / 🛣️Itinerary: DAY 1: Depart from Shanghai and arrive in San Francisco. DAY 2-DAY 3: Explore San Francisco, visit 17-Mile Drive and Carmel-by-the-Sea. Drive to Bakersfield, then to Death Valley National Park, and finally arrive in Las Vegas. DAY 4-DAY 5: Depart from Las Vegas, visit Grand Canyon National Park, then travel to Page to see Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon. Return to Las Vegas. DAY 6-DAY 7: Explore Las Vegas, then visit Seven Magic Mountains and Barstow Outlets. Finally, arrive in Los Angeles. After a day in Los Angeles, visit San Diego and return to Los Angeles. DAY 8: Continue exploring Los Angeles. DAY 9: Depart from Los Angeles and travel to Hawaii. DAY 10: Explore Hawaii. DAY 11-DAY 12: Return from Hawaii, transfer in Seoul, and finally arrive in Shanghai. / Must-See Attractions: Grand Canyon National Park ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Address: S Entrance Rd, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023, USA - Opening hours: Open 24 hours - Duration: 1-2 days - Strange scenery, red and yellow rock formations show the magnificent Grand Canyon scenery, a paradise for nature lovers. Port of San Diego ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Address: 3165 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101 - Opening hours: Monday-Thursday, Saturday-Sunday 08:00-17:00 - Duration: 3-4 hrs - Warships gather, contrasting with the red tiles and green trees, creating a picturesque scene. Experience the perfect blend of modern and historical elements. Fisherman's Wharf ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Address: 505 Beach St Ste 110, San Francisco, CA 94133 - Opening hours: Open 24 hours - Duration: 2-3 hrs - Here, you can not only enjoy food, shopping, and leisure, but also watch the sea lions basking in the sun. It's a must-see attraction in San Francisco. / Travel Tips: 🛫Airport Transportation: Check transportation options from the airport to the city in advance. You can choose taxis🚕, subways🚇, or buses🚌. 📖Visa Information: You need a visa to travel to the US. Be sure to prepare all the required materials in advance! ⏰Time Difference: There is a significant time difference between the US and China. Adjust to the time difference to avoid travel fatigue😪. 🍔Local Cuisine: Be sure to try American hamburgers🍔, pizza🍕, and fried chicken🍗. Super delicious! 💳Payment Methods: Credit cards💳 are generally accepted in the US, but cash💰 may be required for small transactions. 🗺️Tourist Attractions: The Statue of Liberty, the Grand Canyon, and Yellowstone National Park are must-sees! Don't miss them～ 📞Emergency Calls: Remember the emergency number 911, just in case🆘. 💡Voltage Reminder: The voltage in the US is 110-120V. You need to prepare a converter plug🔌. 🎉Nightlife: Experience American nightlife. You can go to bars🍻 or night markets. 👮‍♀️Safety Precautions: Pay attention to your personal belongings and stay alert in tourist attractions and public places🔒. / Don't forget to leave your travel footprints👣. Next time you visit the US, there will be more stories waiting for you to discover!🎉

The National Museum of Manzanar in California is a deeply moving and essential memorial. During World War II, over 10,000 Japanese-Americans were forcibly relocated to the Manzanar internment camp, one of the many camps across the United States, under Executive Order 9066. They were unjustly stripped of their homes, businesses, and rights, simply because of their heritage. The museum offers a powerful look at this dark chapter in American history and highlights the experiences of those who endured this injustice. 🏚️ The museum stands as a vital reminder of the importance of civil liberties and the dangers of prejudice and fear. It’s not just a historical site, but a place that speaks to the resilience and strength of the Japanese-American community during an incredibly difficult time. 🌏 If you’re planning to visit one of the natural parks in California, this museum is conveniently located along the way, making it a meaningful stop. It’s an interesting and educational visit, shedding light on the injustices faced by a community, offering both reflection and understanding of history. 🌄📜 #celebrateit

Death Valley's majestic natural scenery and mysterious colors were impressive. The endless salt flats of Badwater Basin and the golden landscapes of Zabriskie Point were particularly memorable. Yosemite was overwhelming with its grand waterfalls and massive rocks. The scene where a rainbow formed over the waterfall was especially beautiful. There were also many quiet walking paths where you could fully immerse yourself in nature. Both places were the best travel destinations to truly experience the greatness of nature.

#getgoing2025 Death Valley National Park has been in my bucket list since childhood. When I visited I was mesmerizied by breathtaking views of Artist’s Palette, Badwater Basin and Zabriske Point. The dessert landscape is stunning and there is so much to do here. I did a day trip to this place from Las Vegas and I can truly say everyone should visit this place once in a lifetime. Its truly the best.

#JapanFlightEvent It was really surprising that such wonderful nature existed not far from Las Vegas. Red Rock Canyon and Death Valley each had their own charms, but both places allowed you to fully experience the grandeur of nature. Red Rock Canyon was about 30 minutes away from Las Vegas by car, making it very accessible. There were various trail courses and routes to enjoy driving all over the place, allowing you to enjoy nature without any burden. In particular, the red rock cliffs and endless scenery were so magnificent that it was difficult to capture them all in a photo. Death Valley was a little further away (about 2 and a half hours), but it was well worth the trip. The desolate yet exotic scenery made me feel like I was on another planet. Each place, including Badwater Basin, Zabriskie Point, and Artist's Palette, had its own unique charm. The temperature was moderate in the winter, so it was great to explore. Here's a tip: If you visit both places during sunrise or sunset, you'll be able to see even more impressive scenery. Also, since Death Valley is a large area, it is recommended to leave early and prepare enough water and snacks. After touring Red Rock Canyon and Death Valley, I was able to feel the harmonious beauty of nature, different from the glamour of Las Vegas. If you take the time to visit, it is a travel destination you will never regret!

#JapanAirlineEvent The scenery seen from Danitsu View was magnificent enough to be hard to describe in words. The vast land spread out before my eyes, and it felt like the best work of art created by nature. Especially the moment of sunrise, when the sun illuminated the valley, was so wonderful that it will remain in my memory for a lifetime. The best

#JapanAirlineEvent Danitsuview is one of the highest points in Death Valley National Park, offering visitors a magnificent view. Many people share their experiences here and cannot help but be amazed. Summary of Visitor Reviews: - Magnificent Views: Visitors say they were amazed by the vast desert and mountain ranges from Danitsuview and felt the grandeur of nature. - Sunrise and Sunset: Many say the views during sunrise and sunset are especially fantastic. The moment when the sunlight colors the land is an unforgettable experience. - Stargazing: It is highly rated as the best place to observe stars in the night sky due to its high altitude, allowing visitors to enjoy the night sky filled with stars. - Cold Protection: It is advised to prepare warm clothes as temperatures can be low due to the nature of the highlands. Visitors say that their experience at Danitsuview allowed them to feel the beauty and grandeur of nature once again.

#JapanAirlineEvent The view from Danitsu View was unbelievably magnificent. The endless valley and the colors of the land were overwhelming, and especially the golden scenery at sunset was unforgettable. I could feel the grandeur of nature.!! Recommended

#JapanAirlineEvent Danitsu View was a place where you could enjoy magnificent natural scenery. The endless valley and the desolate yet majestic scenery were impressive. Especially during sunrise and sunset, the sunlight dyed the rocks, creating a fantastic scene. I felt as if time had stopped in the midst of the quiet and overwhelming beauty of nature.

#JapanFlightEvent Zabriskie Point in Death Valley, which I happened to visit during my trip, was a place that gave me an unexpected impression. It was an unplanned visit, but I was overwhelmed by the vast landscape that unfolded as soon as I arrived. The colorful rocks and unique terrain made me feel like I was on another planet, and it was like a work of art created by nature. It was especially special because I could fully feel the grandeur of the surroundings in a quiet atmosphere. Although it was a visit that I decided to visit in a hurry, Zabriskie Point remained as the highlight of my trip.

#JapanAirTicketEvent Zabriskie Point, my first stop in Death Valley, was really impressive. As I looked at its unique landscape, scenes from the movie *Dune* came to mind. The endless desert and strangely shaped rocks made me feel like I was on another planet. I felt a similar feeling to the vast desert atmosphere I saw in the movie, and I was overwhelmed by the grandeur of nature. The scenery of Zabriskie Point itself was full of cinematic charm, and thanks to it, I was reminded of the world of *Dune* again. It felt like I was living a scene from the movie.

#JapanFlightEvent The scenery from Zabriskie Point was like a scene from a movie. The endless salt flats and rocks of various colors sparkled in the sunlight, creating a unique beauty. Especially at sunrise or sunset, the sky and the ground blended together to create an enchanting color that felt like a scene from a movie. The quiet atmosphere and mysterious scenery made me forget reality, and the surrounding scenery unfolded like a huge work of art, drawing admiration from the viewer. Zabriskie Point was like the best movie set created by nature, presenting a beautiful scene that will always remain in my heart.

#JapanFlightEvent Death Valley Zabriskie Point is located about 2 hours and 30 minutes from Las Vegas, so it can be easily visited as a day trip from Las Vegas. It is about 120 miles (about 190 kilometers) by car from Las Vegas and is one of the most famous spots in Death Valley, famous for its unique landscape and special views at sunrise and sunset. If you want to experience the magnificence of nature in Las Vegas, Zabriskie Point is a great choice.

#mountainhike | Big Pine Lake in Autumn | After watching alltrials, some people wrote tips to take the North Fork+Upper Trail back and forth to Second Lake, which takes about five and a half hours. The total moving time is about six and a half hours. As soon as I started climbing, I saw Rizhao Jinshan, which is really beautiful! Along the way, there were waterfalls, streams, and autumn leaves to enjoy climbing. It was very happy that day, it was mostly cloudy with a light rain 🌧️ When we arrived at the lake, no one was there yet. The entire scenery belonged to us. The cloudy glacier lake, towering peaks, accompanied by gentle rain and breeze, was so healing. #trip #familytrip #historicallandmarks #hikingtrails

#magicalxmastrip #Alabamahills #usa Looking for a quick escape with stunning views and adventure? Alabama Hills, just outside Lone Pine, California, offers the perfect weekend retreat! Day 1: Arrive & Set Up Camp Drive into Alabama Hills and set up camp in the free BLM-managed areas. Choose a spot with epic views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. If camping’s not your thing, you can stay at a nearby motel in Lone Pine. Day 1 Afternoon: Explore & Snap Photos Explore the famous Arch Rock and the Movie Road, where over 400 films were shot. Don’t miss the views of Mount Whitney, the tallest peak in the U.S. Outside, you’ll find stunning rock formations perfect for climbing or just relaxing. Day 1 Evening: Stargazing As the sun sets, settle in for stargazing in the Dark Sky area. With minimal light pollution, this is one of the best places to see the Milky Way. Day 2: Hike & Explore More Start your morning with a hike on the Horseshoe Meadows Trail or take the more challenging Mount Whitney hike. Both offer incredible mountain views. Day 2 Afternoon: Lone Pine Film Museum Before you leave, visit the Lone Pine Film History Museum to learn about the Hollywood films shot in the area. Wrap up your weekend with unforgettable views, history, and adventure—Alabama Hills is a hidden gem perfect for a quick getaway!

#northamericatrip Looking for a quick and unforgettable weekend escape? Head to Alabama Hills, a stunning spot just outside of Lone Pine, California, nestled at the foot of the Eastern Sierra Mountains. Whether you’re into epic photo ops, stargazing, or outdoor adventures, this is the perfect place to recharge and explore. Day 1: Arrive & Set Up Camp Start your weekend by driving into Alabama Hills—about 2 hours from the nearest major city, Bishop, California. This natural wonderland is known for its massive rock formations, perfect for climbing, hiking, or simply taking in the views. Camping is free (yay!) in the BLM-managed areas, so find a spot that gives you a front-row seat to the Sierra Nevada peaks and set up camp. If you’re not into camping, check into nearby motels in Lone Pine. Day 1 Afternoon: Explore & Take Photos After setting up camp, it’s time to explore the Arch Rock—a natural stone arch that’s perfect for photos! You can take a short walk through the rock formations to discover other cool geological features. Make sure to snap a shot at Movie Road, where over 400 films have been shot (including Western classics like Gunga Din). The views of Mount Whitney from here are just breathtaking, so get your camera ready! Day 1 Evening: Stargazing As the sun sets, the Alabama Hills sky turns into a canvas of brilliant colors. Settle in and enjoy stargazing in the Dark Sky area—this is one of the best spots for it. You’ll get an incredible view of the Milky Way and the star-studded sky. Bring a blanket, lay back, and let the universe do its magic. Day 2: Hike & Explore More Wake up early and hit the Horseshoe Meadows Trail or Lone Pine Lake trail for an easy-to-moderate hike, offering fantastic views of the Alabama Hills and the surrounding mountains. If you’re feeling more adventurous, tackle Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous U.S. (but be warned, it’s a full day of hiking, so pack plenty of snacks and water). Day 2 Afternoon: Visit the Lone Pine Film Museum Before you leave, make sure to check out the Lone Pine Film History Museum, where you can learn all about the history of Alabama Hills and its role in Hollywood film history. The museum showcases memorabilia from the many movies filmed in the area, adding an extra bit of magic to your adventure. Head Home with Memories After a weekend full of stunning landscapes, fun hikes, and a dash of Hollywood history, you’ll be heading home with memories (and photos) that’ll last a lifetime. Alabama Hills is a hidden gem that packs a lot of punch into a short weekend trip! So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to experience one of California’s most unique outdoor destinations!

#northamericatrip Tucked at the foot of the Sierra Nevada in Eastern California, the Alabama Hills is a stunning and unique landscape that beckons adventurers, photographers, and nature lovers alike. Known for its striking rock formations, expansive desert scenery, and panoramic mountain views, the Alabama Hills offer a rare combination of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. The Alabama Hills are perhaps best known for their iconic rock arches and boulders, which have been featured in countless movies and TV shows, earning them the nickname “Hollywood’s Backyard.” The most famous formation, Mobius Arch, offers a perfect framing of Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States. It’s a popular spot for photography, especially at sunrise and sunset, when the light creates dramatic shadows and colors across the landscape. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in the Alabama Hills. Hiking and rock climbing are top activities, with trails like the Alabama Hills Trail providing easy access to some of the area’s most iconic formations. For more adventurous climbers, the towering boulders offer ample opportunities for scrambling and bouldering. Camping in the area is a treat, with dispersed campsites available for those who want to enjoy the quiet desert nights under the stars. The Alabama Hills are a short drive from the town of Lone Pine, making it easy to combine a day of exploration with a visit to the Eastern Sierra Visitor Center. Whether you’re exploring, hiking, or simply soaking in the views, the Alabama Hills offer a spectacular, one-of-a-kind experience.

Zabriskie Point it's probably the most iconic and awesome spot in the entire death valley. The views are truly stunning and fascinating. There is a convenient parking lot nearby the lookout. A few hikes start here. If you're planning to hike here, then better come very early because by 10 AM the temperature even in winter is nearly unbearable. But even just a simple visit of the viewpoint itself without any hard-core hiking is absolutely worth it. Seriously, that's probably the best you can see. I spent quite some time there and took lots and lots of pictures, this place is extremely photogenic. #internationaltravel #nationalparks #usa

Crossing Death Valley from San Francisco to Las Vegas is an ultimate test of courage and perseverance. Stepping into that mysterious place, there was a frightening atmosphere all around. The scorching heat seemed to swallow everything up, and the ground shone strangely under the sunlight. In the wilderness and desert, there is nothing moving except my car. There is no breath of life, no sound, no mobile phone signal, there is only one road leading to the distance. The air is so hot that it seems to be floating when you stand on the asphalt road. The strange-shaped rocks are like ancient guards, standing tenaciously. There are rotten dead trees lying in the desert. This is Death Valley, which rejects the weak with its harsh environment, but still It also shows the most shocking side of nature to the brave. Self-driving TIPS: 🔺Be sure to fill up the tank and bring enough water with you 🔺Be sure to have an offline map 🔺After entering Death Valley from San Francisco, there are gas stations and visitor service centers only on the other side of Death Valley, 200 kilometers away. 🔺Not recommended for people without self-driving experience in the United States

Aguereberry Point is a secret hidden spot in Death Valley. It is an awesome absolutely stunning viewpoint that is not crowded. Elevation is 6433 feet (approximately 1961 meters) and the wind is usually pretty crazy even on sunny days. This is much more remote, less visited part of the park, so be sure that you vehicle is safe to operate because you might not have any cellular connection, and there may not be other travelers. #nationalparks #100waysoftravel #usa #deathvalley

The lowest place in North America is located in death Valley, called Badwater Basin and is 282 feet below, sea level! When I visited, it was covered with salt, was pretty much dry, and turned into a great walk. Tip: make sure to come in early morning because it's getting hot very quickly. Their Rangers, who are eager to explain what's going on and provide with the information about the place. This isn't the most crowded spot in the Death Valley, which is surely a plus. And in general is just acute thing to visit the lowest spot in North America! #nationalparks #100waysoftravel #usa