Death Valley

Alan and I have been talking about camping at Death Valley since we moved to Las Vegas over two years ago. We actually had reservations to camp last October, but it was still way to hot so we had to postpone the adventure. I got on the computer a couple of weeks ago to check out reservations and this last weekend was the only time available until the end of March and by the beginning of April it would be to late to camp until early winter. The first year we moved here we took a day trip to Death Valley in the beginning of April and it was 111 degrees!  Yikes.

We stayed at the Furnace Creek Campground, but there are quite a few campgrounds you can stay at. We were surprised we had trees and full shade--not that it would help in the heat of the summer, but the weather was a nice 60 degrees during the day.

This was our first camping trip without Willy and it was weird. We all missed him.

There are a couple of old Borax Works ruins. Borax was the big industry back in the late 1800's and we checked out the Harmony Borax Works.

The scenery at Death Valley is something that really needs to be appreciated in person. It's hard to convey the sheer size and beauty of the place.

Hanging out at the Devil's Cornfield

Death Valley is an impressive 282 feet below sea level at the lowest point.

Anybody that has ever gone camping with Tug knows what a little lush he is. He was trying to slurp up the last of the margarita.

I also found out he likes Red Bull. Like that dog needs ANY more energy!

All the driving around on Saturday made for two very tired puppies.

Another spectacular shot of the Valley.

We were hoping to go on a couple of small hikes, but dogs aren't allowed on any trails. Here is a shot of Mosaic Canyon. You have to travel almost 3 miles on a dirt road to reach the Canyon.

We packed up Sunday morning and hit the road. We decided to go check out Scotty's Castle. It was quite a bit out of the way but we had plenty of time and it was worth the drive.