Death Valley National Park
National Park #16
After spending the morning at Red Rock Canyon National Conversation Area, we made our way to Death Valley National Park.
Death Valley is a gigantic park with many things to explore. Unfortunately, huge areas of the park were inaccessible due to a number of floods over the summer. Even though the closed roads kept us from exploring a spot or two on our list, we still had plenty to see.
Before heading to our room (and air conditioning), we made a stop at the Furnace Creek Visitor’s Center.
For our adventures on day two, we rented a Jeep from Farabee Jeep Rentals. Isaac was especially excited to be able to off road through the desert.
Then we made our way to up Aguereberry Point. An amazing view and at 6433 it was much cooler than the valley.
Of course, Isaac would find an old abandoned car to check out.
Then it was onto the Charcoal Kilns. These kilns are some of the best preserved kilns.
Our next stop was Mosaic Canyon back down in the valley. This slot canyon was cool but blazingly hot. We should have done this hike in the morning. However, our map recommended we visit mid day to better see all of the colors and I mistakenly thought the trail would be mostly shaded. Needless to say, we didn’t make it to the end of the trail, but it was worth all the sweating.
We also made a quick stop at the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes.
After a break, we decided to a bit more exploring before we had to return the Jeep. We started with a stop at Badwater Basin, the lowest spot on earth.
Then we had the perfect light to check out Artist Palette.
Even though we didn’t have the perfect conditions, the stargazing was amazing! Stargazing made everyone’s favorites list and we already have a stargaze trip in the works.
We started off the next day by watching the sunrise at Zabriskie Point.
Then it was off to hike Golden Canyon. We opted to hike all the way to Red Cathedral; just over 3 miles roundtrip.
Death Valley was pretty amazing! So many interesting things to see and do. Even though I prefer hiking in the forest, I highly recommend this national park! And definitely rent a Jeep!