Where is Dante's Ridge Trail located?

Dante's Ridge is located in Death Valley National Park. To access the trailhead, drive to Dante's View, which is about 30 minutes from Furnace Creek. The trailhead address is Dante's View, Death Valley National Park, Dantes View Rd, California 92328.

How difficult is the Mount Perry hike along Dante's Ridge?

The hike to Mount Perry along Dante's Ridge is a moderately challenging hike with a combination of long downhill sections and a steep climb to the summit. The trail is rocky but well-defined and offers spectacular views, making it a rewarding experience despite the physical effort.

How long is the Dante's Ridge to Mount Perry hike?

The hike to Mount Perry is a one-way trail of approximately 3.5 miles, with an elevation gain of about 2,000 feet. The return hike follows the same route, so the total distance is roughly 7 miles.

What gear should I bring for the Dante's Ridge to Mount Perry hike?

For this rugged and remote hike, it's recommended to bring at least 3 liters of water, trail runners or sturdy hiking shoes, and a rain shell or layers to prepare for changing weather. A satellite messenger is advised due to limited cellular service in the area. Be aware of extreme temperatures, which can vary from freezing in winter to dangerously hot in summer.

What is the best time to hike Dante's Ridge to Mount Perry?

The best time to hike is in the cooler months, ideally in the fall, winter, or early spring. In summer, temperatures can reach deadly levels, so it's crucial to check weather conditions before attempting the hike.

What can I expect to see on the Dante's Ridge Trail?

Along the Dante's Ridge Trail, you'll be treated to incredible views of Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, and as far as Mount Whitney and the Sierra Nevada. The trail also offers sweeping panoramas of Death Valley's rugged terrain and the Black Mountains.

What is the history of Badwater Basin on this hike?

Badwater Basin is the lowest point in North America, at 282 feet below sea level. During the last Ice Age, it was part of Lake Manly, a large prehistoric lake that dried up about 10,000 years ago. Occasionally, after heavy rains, small lakes form in the basin.

Are there any hazards or difficulties on the Mount Perry hike?

The hike includes some minor scrambles, particularly on the false summits, but nothing dangerous. However, the trail can be exposed and windy, so it's important to prepare for changing weather conditions, especially on the exposed ridge.

Can I expect to see other hikers on the Dante's Ridge Trail?

Dante's Ridge is a remote trail, so you shouldn't expect to encounter many other hikers. The area is rugged and typically sees fewer visitors, especially on the longer trek to Mount Perry.

PLAY VIDEO

Hike Mount Perry from Dante's Ridge

By Cris Hazzard, Professional Hiking Guide
Updated May 5, 2025

Hike Stats

Total Distance: 9 miles
Time: 4-5 Hours
Total Climbing: 2100 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Crowds: Quiet
Dogs: No Dogs
Gear: What I Use
Weather: Latest Report
Park: Death Valley National Park

The hike to Mount Perry along Dante's Ridge is easily the most underrated in Death Valley National Park. The easy-to-follow trail follows a ridge along the Black Mountains, offering jaw-dropping views into Badwater Basin and as far as Mt Whitney and the Sierras.

Where is Dante's Ridge?

Hike Mount Perry Location — Dante's View is about 30 minutes from Furnace Creek, the central location in Death Valley National Park where you'll find lodging and the Visitor Center.

To get to the start of hike, drive to Dante's View, which is an incredible viewpoint on its own. Use this trailhead address:
Dante's View, Death Valley National Park, Dantes View Rd, California 92328

Gear Recommendations

Hike Mount Perry Talus — There's a short section of scree to hike over, but other than that, is just a walk on a rocky track. I find trail runners work great here.

This is a rugged and fairly remote hike. Don't expect to see others and prepare for the conditions, which are often windy and exposed.

Even though it's cooler at this altitude than lower in Badwater Basin, it can still get extremely hot here. In the winter it can be freezing but don't expect snow. In the summer, temperatures can be deadly. Checking the weather and conditions before you do this hike is critical.
Bring at least 3L of water when it's warm out.
The trail is rocky and overall in good condition. Trail runners are a good choice for footwear.
There is intermittent cellular service along the route but nothing dependable. If you have a satellite messenger, I'd bring it.

Essentials I’m Using Now

Garmin inReach Mini 2: Reliable SOS Everywhere on Earth
Sawyer + CNOC Water Filter: Easy & Reliable Safe Water
Nitecore NU25 Headlamp: Running late? Get home safe
Altra Olympus 275: Favorite trail shoes right now, no blisters and very comfy.
AllTrails Plus: Offline maps on your phone with the Plus level
Full November 2025 Gear List →

Mount Perry Trail Maps

Hike Mount Perry Trail — Although there are no official trail signs, the path is often easy to spot in front of you in the rocky and barren terrain.

Click to activate map

Print Map, Work With It Yourself

View Hike on CalTopo

Bring the Guide to Any GPS

Download the GPX File

Elevation Profile

Hike Mount Perry Elevation — This is the ONE WAY profile to Mount Perry. You have a long and easy downhill, and then a steep climb past the false summits to the actual summit of Mount Perry. On the way back, you do this in reverse, so save energy for the climb.

3D Map

Hike Mount Perry 3d — The trail follows Dante's Ridge along the spine of the Black Mountains, 5000 feet above Badwater Basin.

Mount Perry Hike Directions

Mount Perry Hike Directions 3 — You'll be up above Badwater Basin, below to your left.

Badwater Basin is the lowest point in North America at -282 feet. During the last Ice Age there was a massive lake there called Lake Manly. The water dried up about 10,000 years ago but occasionally heavy rains will create mini-lakes in the basin.

Mount Perry Hike Directions 4 — You'll crest a small climb and then Mount Perry will come into view in the distance. From this vantage point you can also see the false summits before the true summit.

Mount Perry Hike Directions 5 — After the last crest, you have a nice long downhill with some minor ups and downs.

Mount Perry Hike Directions 6 — Once you do the final push towards the false and actual summits, there are some minor (and easy) scrambles uphill. There's nothing that's dangerous, it's just uphill.

Mount Perry Hike Directions 7 — The first false summit looks narrow and intimidating. When you get closer you'll see it's not as scary as it seems from below.

Mount Perry Hike Directions 8 — You'll scramble up the right hand side of the false summit.

Mount Perry Hike Directions 9 — Once you crest that first false summit, simply continue to the final bump, which is Mount Perry.

Mount Perry Hike Directions 10 — Once you're at Mount Perry, enjoy the views and head back the way you came.

Originally published January 28, 2024

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