10.11 Sidewinder hike and into the slot canyons in Death Valley.
Mountains and basalt desert floor ...(Click on picture to enlarge) Editor's own great escape A beautiful desert (to visit) We are in the town of Shoshone, which is on the outskirts of the south-eastern side of Death Valley National Park. The town has a permanent population of twenty—not thousand, just twenty souls. We believe this ranks as the smallest town we have stayed in, at any time. One of the problems we face is that the park is massive—park is a misnomer—try the size of a small country. To get to a hiking trailhead from our position requires far too much driving, unfortunately. The summer temperatures reach 120’s, making it rather ‘warm’. Notwithstanding the unpleasant heat (dry, of course), this is a unique area, a very attractive place. We were surprised to find it extremely mountainous, a desert of varying colors, deep valleys, slots and far more than ever envisaged. Just arrived via the slot 'roof' Wait till the rains come. (What's rain?) ...