Death Valley National Park

Death Valley holds an almost mythic place in the American psyche. Rising from harsh, sun-scorched desert at the lowest point in North America to snow capped peaks, Death Valley is a true study in contrast. Pictures of the bleak landscape look like they’ve been transmitted from a probe imaging another world. In fact, Death Valley is located on the border of California and Nevada providing easy access to millions of visitors.

Death Valley is covered with a vast array of flowers and multicolored rocks and is frequently used as a perfect example of a "Basin and Ridge "configuration of a valley. Very little rain falls in Death Valley, although it is still prone to flooding. Home to some incredible and unique plants and animals, Death Valley has become a place of legend. Even thought Death Valley is harsh, one group of Native Americans, the Timbisha Shoshone, call Death Valley their home. There are about 50 to 60 members for the tribe living in Indian Village in Death Valley. Some of them still practice the traditional craft of basket making.

Because of the unforgiving lands, sturdy shoes are a must. Also, wide brimmed hats and clothing that offers protection from the sun is also a necessity. Great care must be taken when traveling to Death Valley in the summer. Always pack an adequate supply of water.

One of the more popular places to visit in Death Valley is Death Valley Ranch more commonly known Scotty’s Castle. The castle was constructed by Albert Mussey Johnson, a millionaire businessman, as a fantasy getaway house. Walter Scott, aka Death Valley Scotty, claimed to have built the home himself when in fact he was a partner of Albert Johnson. Johnson let Scotty live in the house. Tours of the home and ranch are available every day.

Death Valley is generally sunny, dry and quite clear throughout the year. There may be an occasional winter storm from November to March. Temperatures in the summer tend to average around 120°.

It opens from 9am to 4:30pm during the summer and from 8:30pm to 5pm during
the winter.