Death Valley, a land of extremes, has held a magnetic charm for filmmakers, authors, and audiences for decades. Its otherworldly landscapes have served as the backdrop for countlessfamous films shot in Death Valley, TV shows, and literary works. This guide will take you on a cinematic journey through Death Valley, exploring its iconic filming locations, local legends, hidden gems, and much more.
The Rich Film History of Death Valley
From epic Westerns to sci-fi classics, Death Valley’s dramatic landscapes have provided the perfect canvas for filmmakers to weave their stories. The desert’s vast salt flats, towering dunes, and rugged mountains have graced the silver screen in numerous famous films shot in Death Valley.
Classic Films Filmed in Death Valley
Death Valley’s cinematic allure began as early as the 1920s. Here are some classic films that have immortalized the Valley’s unique landscapes:
- “The Covered Wagon” (1923) – Directed by James Cruze. This silent Western epic features several scenes filmed in Death Valley’s desolate landscapes.
- “The Gold Rush” (1925) – Directed by Charlie Chaplin. Chaplin’s classic comedy-drama about a prospector’s search for fortune was partly filmed in Death Valley.
- “Spartacus” (1960) – Directed by Stanley Kubrick. The iconic battle scenes were shot in the sweeping plains and rugged cliffs of Death Valley.
Contemporary Films Filmed in Death Valley
In recent years, Death Valley has continued to attract contemporary filmmakers:
- “Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope” (1977) – Directed by George Lucas. The hostile planet of Tatooine was brought to life using Death Valley’s arid landscapes.
- “Seven Years in Tibet” (1997) – Directed by Jean-Jacques Annaud. Some scenes were filmed in Death Valley to portray the harsh conditions of the Tibetan Plateau.
- “Resident Evil: Extinction” (2007) – Directed by Russell Mulcahy. The post-apocalyptic landscapes of this horror film were shot in Death Valley.
TV Shows Set in Death Valley
Death Valley’s dramatic landscapes have also been featured in several popular TV shows:
- “The Twilight Zone” (1959-1964) – The episode “I Shot an Arrow into the Air” used Death Valley as the desolate planet where astronauts crash-land.
- “Westworld” (2016-present) – The HBO series filmed in several locations in Death Valley, depicting the rugged terrain of the fictional park.
- “Death Valley” (2011) – This MTV horror-comedy series is set in a fictional version of Death Valley, overrun with zombies, vampires, and werewolves.
Animated Films Set in Death Valley
Death Valley’s stark beauty has also inspired animated films:
- “Rango” (2011) – Directed by Gore Verbinski. Though not explicitly set in Death Valley, the film’s desert setting is reminiscent of its landscapes.
- “Cars” (2006) – Directed by John Lasseter. The film’s desert racing scenes were inspired by the vistas of Death Valley.
- “Wall-E” (2008) – Directed by Andrew Stanton. The post-apocalyptic Earth in the film bears a striking resemblance to Death Valley’s barren landscapes.
Famous Books Set in Death Valley
Death Valley’s captivating landscapes have also been the setting for several literary works, both classic and contemporary. Here are three classic and three contemporary books set in Death Valley:
Classic Books
- “Death Valley in ’49” by William Lewis Manly. This autobiographical account of the author’s experiences in the California Gold Rush vividly describes his perilous journey through Death Valley.
- “The Forbidden Trail” by Honoré Willsie Morrow. This Western novel set in Death Valley tells the story of a man’s search for a legendary lost mine.
- “Loafing Along Death Valley Trails” by William Caruthers. The book presents a collection of folklore and tall tales from the Death Valley region.
Contemporary Books
- “Death Valley: The Summer Offensive, I Corps, August 1969” by Gus Moreno. This novel, set in Death Valley, revolves around a group of soldiers during the Vietnam War.
- “Death Valley” by Alan Moore. This graphic novel uses the bleak desert landscapes of Death Valley as the backdrop for a supernatural tale of horror.
- “The Land of Little Rain” by Mary Hunter Austin. This collection of essays explores the flora, fauna, and people of the Death Valley region.
Exploring Death Valley Filming Locations – Where to Go
Visiting Death Valley’s filming locations offers a unique way to experience the park’s cinematic history. Here are ten must-visit spots:
- Zabriskie Point – Featured in Michelangelo Antonioni’s film of the same name, this lookout offers stunning views of the valley’s erosional landscape.
- Death Valley Junction – This historic town was a filming location for David Lynch’s “Lost Highway.”
- Golden Canyon – Hike this trail to experience the landscapes seen in the “Star Wars” films.
- Twenty Mule Team Canyon – Featured in numerous Westerns, this area offers a glimpse into Death Valley’s mining history.
- Badwater Basin – The lowest point in North America, it has been featured in films like “Resident Evil: Extinction.”
- Dante’s View – Offering panoramic views of the valley, it was used as a filming location in “Spartacus.”
- Artist’s Drive – This scenic drive, featured in “Artists and Models,” is known for its colorful rock formations.
- Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes – These dunes have appeared in films like “Grease.”
- The Devil’s Golf Course – This vast salt pan was featured in “Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope.”
- Racetrack Playa – Known for its moving rocks, it was a filming location for “The Secret of the Sahara.”
Where to Sleep in Death Valley
Death Valley offers a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly campsites:
Budget
- Furnace Creek Campground – Offers basic amenities in a central location.
- Stovepipe Wells Village Hotel – Features simple rooms and an outdoor pool.
- Panamint Springs Resort – Offers rustic lodging and camping options.
Luxury
- The Oasis at Death Valley – Offers upscale accommodations, including the historic Inn at Death Valley and the family-friendly Ranch at Death Valley.
- Stovepipe Wells Village Hotel – Offers deluxe rooms with stunning desert views.
- Panamint Springs Resort – Their cabin-style lodges offer a luxurious desert experience.
Where to Eat in Death Valley
From casual to fine-dining, here are six dining options in Death Valley:
Budget
- The Ranch at Death Valley – Offers a variety of dining options, including a coffee and creamery station, and a Last Kind Words Saloon.
- Stovepipe Wells Village Hotel – Their Badwater Saloon and Toll Road Restaurant offer a variety of budget-friendly meals.
- Panamint Springs Resort – Their restaurant offers a variety of dishes at reasonable prices.
Luxury
- The Inn at Death Valley – Their Dining Room offers fine dining with a stunning view of the desert.
- The Inn at Death Valley – Their Last Kind Words Saloon offers a variety of gourmet dishes and cocktails.
- Stovepipe Wells Village Hotel – Their Toll Road Restaurant offers fine dining options.
Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary
Here is a suggested three-day itinerary to explore Death Valley’s filming locations:
Day 1: Furnace Creek Area
- Start at Zabriskie Point, a filming location for “Zabriskie Point.”
- Visit the Borax Museum at the Ranch at Death Valley, featured in several Westerns.
- Explore the Harmony Borax Works, a filming location for “20 Mule Team.”
- Finish the day at Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America and a filming location for “Resident Evil: Extinction.”
Day 2: Stovepipe Wells Area
- Visit Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, a filming location for films like “Grease.”
- Drive through Artist’s Drive, featured in “Artists and Models.”
- Explore Golden Canyon, a “Star Wars” filming location.
- End the day at Dante’s View, a filming location for “Spartacus.”
Day 3: North Death Valley
- Visit Ubehebe Crater, featured in the “Star Trek” series.
- Explore the Racetrack Playa, a filming location for “The Secret of the Sahara.”
- End the day at Scotty’s Castle, a Spanish-style mansion featured in several films.
Local Legends and Curiosities
Death Valley is steeped in local lore and curiosities. One such legend is the moving rocks of Racetrack Playa, featured in “The Secret of the Sahara.” Another curiosity is the 134 °F (56.7 °C) temperature recorded in Furnace Creek in 1913, the highest temperature ever recorded on Earth.
Hidden Gems in Death Valley
Beyond the popular spots, Death Valley is home to several hidden gems. The Eureka Mine and the ghost town of Rhyolite offer a glimpse into the valley’s mining history. Darwin Falls, a lush oasis in the otherwise arid park, is another lesser-known spot worth exploring.
What to Pack for a Trip to Death Valley
When packing for Death Valley, consider the extreme weather conditions. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for the hot summer months, and warm clothing for the cold winter months. Always carry ample water, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes. Depending on your accommodation, you might also need camping gear.
Transportation Tips
The best way to explore Death Valley’s filming locations is by car. There are several car rental services available in the nearby towns. Remember, many of the park’s roads are unpaved, and a 4WD vehicle is recommended for certain areas. Always carry a detailed map of the park and be aware of the park’s rules and regulations.
In conclusion, visiting Death Valley’s filming locations provides a unique way to experience the park’s cinematic history and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a film enthusiast or a nature lover, Death Valley offers a truly epic adventure.
