After our short stop at the Hoover Dame, we reached Death Valley National Park and the Furnace Creek Ranch Resort / Campground in early afternoon. We set up camp and then enjoyed a wonderfully refreshing swim in the natural spring-fed pool.
Once we were all clean and refreshed, we set out to explore this amazing park. In this below-sea-level basin, steady drought and record summer heat make Death Valley a land of extremes. Yet, each extreme has a striking contrast. Towering peaks are frosted with winter snow. Rare rainstorms bring vast fields of wildflowers. Lush oases harbor tiny fish and refuge for wildlife. Despite its morbid name, a great diversity of life survives in Death Valley. Poor Daddy definitely got to experience the extremes. He was very comfortable hiking the 20 mule trail in his summer shorts, but when we watched the sun set from 5000 feet at Dante’s peak, he froze!
Hiking the 20 Mule Team Canyon
Sunset From Dante’s Point