Thursday, January 6, 2000

After driving almost 300 miles, I have ended up in the same motel as last night! Actually, the miles were spent driving to and within Death Valley National Park. I was impressed! I had not been here before, and had some preconceived notions of what to expect. Quite a unique area, with some very interesting sites.

I began my day by packing up the car and driving off early. I was able to watch the spectacular sunrise as I drove towards Death Valley, which was 105 miles away. My actual destination was Badwater, an area near the lowest point in the park. However, as I was driving I noticed many other reasons to stop.

After stopping at the Death Valley Visitors Center, I headed south through the park. At the Golden Canyon area, I noticed a Ranger giving a talk and tour on the trail. I joined the group and was able to learn quite a bit about the geography of the area and the history of the park. If you go the park, one of the Ranger guided tours would be highly recommended.

Following the tour, I drove to Badwater (this link has panoramas.) There is a trail out onto a salt flat that is in the area of the lowest point. While walking out I took a picture for a family also walking the trail. I began speaking with the father, and learned that he was the Superintendent of Schools for the Big Pine area. We had an interesting discussion about schools, life, and challenges for the future. After he and his family turned back to the parking lot, I continued on the trail. After a few minutes, I was far away from everyone and everything. I paused for a few minutes and stood there, amazed at how quiet it was. There was NO sound, absolute quiet! It felt strange as there were no noises from cars, people, or animals. Even the wind was still. I even held my breath several times to hear anything. Again, absolute silence.

I began my journey back to Lone Pine from there with a stop at a place in the park called Artist's Palette. It is an area of large multicolored rock formations. The colors were absolutely incredible! This is something you must see if you visit the park.

One other item for the day. It appears they are filming another movie here in Lone Pine. I had to slow to a crawl on the way to town as there was a film crew and production staff standing in the road!

Tomorrow I shall head North on Route 395. I may stop at a site of sand dunes recommended by the gentleman I spoke with on the salt flat. The dirt road to the area sounds a bit rough. Normally that would not stop me, but since my car is packed full and riding very low, I do not want to take any chances.

Click on picture to get enlarged view: