47.30 Nevada: Big Dunes, gorgeous and a time for sport.

On our way to Beatty (gateway to Death Valley), we stopped at Big Dunes, Nevada for a short interlude. We're fond of dunes, their formations, coloring and our activity on them. Who said we're supposed to be adults? 

On a clear day, one can see forever.

All's well on the dunes.

Jen even decides on a run.

On our trip from Boulder City, the winds gusted at a furious pace. The car rocked from side to side.

We arrived at the dunes and the winds stopped; we had near perfect weather. Lucky us.

On our way back to the car, we met the only other person in the area. He had parked beyond the informal parking lot and was struggling to drive his vehicle from the sand surface. It would not budge. When we drove into the Big Dunes lot, Jen indicated we should park next to that vehicle, saving some walking time. I declined the suggestion. It appeared he had been in his car a while because our paths had crossed on our way to the dunes. Fortunately, we were able to assist and he left the dunes safely. Before doing so, we chatted with this rather interesting man, an explorer/photographer, Bruce. He related some of his experiences in our discussion, proving once again just how many fascinating personalities one can meet in different parts of the world. 

As he drove off, the wind storm returned. Hats flew off heads, sand blew in our eyes and remaining upright was challenging. It was frightening to be standing in the calm and open territory and within seconds, feel like a hurricane was en route. 

The pictures below show the progression.

For contrast, add in a lake (Powell) and desert; the beauty abounds.

Lake Mead from a new angle, Kingman Wash, Arizona...all terrific.

'Macho Man' ahem. Toward the end of a hike, it's nice to pick up a car or so to build the upper body muscles...Yeh right! What a whet. (By the way, our other car is a Jag. 😂)

Let's end on a better note. Jenni on the way up.

Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey