Death Valley, Adventure, and Wildlife
Death Valley Days
Or how I camped and hiked in the desert without burning up
“I like this place and could willingly waste my time in it.” ― William Shakespeare
Death Valley is one of Earth’s hottest, driest, and lowest places. Even so, the valley in California’s Mojave Desert had attracted me for decades.
Finally, my desire to camp and hike in Death Valley got the best of me. I decided to fulfill my desire.
I packed ultralight camping gear into a large suitcase for the solo trip.
Then, I flew from Minneapolis to Las Vegas and rented a car. After stocking up on groceries and drinking water, I drove west 120 miles (193 km) to Furnace Creek Campground in Death Valley National Park.
The sun-heated air felt like a blast furnace; worse, there was no breeze.
After setting up the tent, I wondered about the elevation and the air temperature.
