DDAee Visitors Gaauide To tthh VVaalllleeyy 12th Edition Websites: Armargosa Conservancy, Shoshone, www.armargosaconservancy.org Death Valley Chamber of Commerce, www.deathvalleychamber.org Death Valley National Park, www.nps.gov/deva Shoshone Village, Shoshone, www.shoshonevillage.com Stovepipe Wells Village, www.stovepipewells.com Panamint Springs Resort, www.panamintsprings.com Death Valley Natural History Association, www.dvnha.org Death Valley Conservancy, Table of Contents www.dvconservancy.org Direct Results Media, Inc. Stunning Sights Directand Scene s Results Media, Inc.Page 4
Renovations Create An Oasis Page 6 Business Cards Rodney Preul Tecopa’s Restaurant Renaissance Page 8 Sales Associate Extraordinary Tecopa and Shosho3.5x2ne Page 10 Borax Wagons Find a New Home Page 12 6000 Bel Aire Way Cell: 760-382-1640 Bakersfield, CA 93301 [email protected] 20 Mule Team Canyon Page 14
Dante’s ‘Jaw-Dropping’ View Page 15 The 2019 Death Valley Visitor Guide is produced by the Lone Pine Chamber of Death Valley’s Dark Sky Page 16 Commerce, the Death Valley Chamber of Commerce, and the County of Inyo. The Mysterious Race Track Page 17 The contents do not necessarily reflect Direct Results Media, Inc. Direct Results Media, Inc. the views of the Lone Pine Chamber of Commerce, the Death Valley Chamber Jets Visit Star Wars Canyon Page 18 of Commerce, Death Valley National Park, or the County of Inyo. (Except for Death Valley Hot Fun Facts Page 20 our view that Death Valley is a spectac - Jerry Elford Robert Asianian ular place to visit. We will all definitely Sales Manager own that one.) Published by Direct Re - Attractions At A Glance Sales Associate Page 21 sults Media.
Direct Results Media, Inc. 6000 Bel AireDirect Way Results Media, Inc. Cell: 661-972-3596 6000 Bel Aire Way Cell: 760-382-1800 Business Cards Bakersfield, CA 93301 [email protected] Bakersfield, CA 93301 [email protected] All ads are copyrighted by Direct ReRodneysults Media Preul Sales Associate 2 3.5x2 Death Valley Vistiors Guide • 12th Edition 6000 Bel Aire Way Cell: 760-382-1640 Bakersfield, CA 93301 [email protected]
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Jerry Elford Robert Asianian Sales Associate Sales Manager
6000 Bel Aire Way Cell: 661-972-3596 6000 Bel Aire Way Cell: 760-382-1800 Bakersfield, CA 93301 [email protected] Bakersfield, CA 93301 [email protected] Death Valley Vistiors Guide • 12th Edition 3 Stunning Sights and Scenes in Death Valley eath Valley contains millions of acres of wild and Badwater Basin Badwater is the site of the lowest place on scenic land. Tucked into that sprawling landscape land in North America, at 282 feet below sea level. The Dare more than a few truly stunning sights, as out - scene is much more than an elevation marker. Seeps create lined below. small pools of water that dramatically reflect the nearby black mountains. Telescope Peak, the highest point in Death Valley looms majestically, 11,000 feet above and across the valley. Located 17 miles south of Furnace Creek. Dantes View Located at an elevation of 5,758 feet directly above the Badwater Basin is Dante’s View. This extremely scenic view spot provides vistas of almost all of Death Valley. One can look straight down to the Badwater Basin and directly across to the Panamint Mountains and Telescope Peak. Far off to the west, are seen the Sierra Nevada Mountains, and to the east, numerous desert mountain ranges of Nevada. Located 25 miles east and south of Furnace Creek. The last few miles of roadway are steep and narrow. Zabriskie Point This viewpoint is accessed by a short drive and a steep short walk on a paved trail. The scene overlooks the beautifully eroded and colorful hills referred to as the badlands. Telescope Peak can be seen in the distance as well as the soaring peaks of the Funeral Range. Zabriskie Point is a favorite of photographers, providing perfect opportunities at sunrise and sunset. Located 2 ½ miles east Furnace Creek. Golden Canyon Penetrating deep into Death Valley’s Black Badwater Basin is the lowest spot in North America, resting at 282 feet below sea level. DEATH VALLEY NATIONAL PARK PHOTO CONTINUED ON PAGE 5 Western Gateway to Death Valley National Park
Three Diamond Award # "# # ! # ! Family Owned & Operated Since 1957 310 South Main Street Lone Pine, CA 4 Death Valley Vistiors Guide • 12th Edition Stunning Sights and Scenes in Death Valley CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4 Mesquite Sand Dunes Just a few Wildrose Charcoal Kilns The Death Mountains is aptly named Golden miles west of Stovepipe Wells Village Valley area has a rich mining history. Canyon. Especially in the morning lay one of Death Valley’s most popular Silver, gold, borax and talc are just light, the canyon walls glow magically attractions, the Mesquite Sand Dunes. come of the minerals that have been with a flaxen hue. Golden Canyon is a Covering over 14 square miles, the mined here. The ten Wildrose Charcoal hike, but one can get an intimate feel dunes provide some of the most Kilns are located at 7000 feet high up for it by walking just a few feet past its dramatic scenery in the Park. Sunrise in the Panamint Mountains in a Pinion mouth. More adventurous trekkers can and sunset are both great time to catch Pine Forest. These nearly perfect pieces choose among a number of longer just the right shot. Watch for the of architecture were built in 1877 to hikes. Located two miles south of signed turnout about 23 miles north produce charcoal for nearby silver Furnace Creek. and west of Furnace Creek. smelters. About 62 miles from Furnace Salt Creek One of the few places on Ubehebe Crater Most visitors are Creek, the last three miles on a graded the actual floor of Death Valley where taken aback when they approach the dirt road. water flows, Salt Creek meanders along yawning expanse of Ubehebe Crater for Artist Drive This scenic one0way, the surface on and off for several miles. the first time. This “Maar” Volcano was semi-loop paved road twists, winds, This unique environment also provides created by a steam explosion as recent climbs and dips its way through some habitat for Death Valley’s only native as only 300 years ago. 600’ deep and of the most colorful scenery in Death species of fish, the Desert Pupfish. over a half mile across, visitors can take Valley. Highlight of the nine mile trip is Visitors can follow a wooden a steep path to the bottom (and back the Artist Pallate, where hues of boardwalk along the banks of this up), walk around its rim and simply greens, purples, oranges, browns and desert treasure on a self-guided .half stand at the edge of the parking area yellows blend together in a mile nature walk. Located 13 ½ miles and take in the overwhelming scene. kaleidoscope of color. Entrance to north of Furnace Creek, then a one Located 57 miles north of Furnace Artist Drive is located about 10 miles mile graded dirt road. Creek. The last five miles are on a south of Furnace Creek narrow roadway.
Golden Canyon lives up to its name. Shown is the hiking trail through the canyon and Manley Beacon. DEATH VALLEY NATIONAL PARK PHOTO
Death Valley Vistiors Guide • 12th Edition 5 The New Oasis with and Old West Feel at Death Valley ith a $100 million investment and a vision in - spired by the Old West of novelist Larry Mc - WMurtry, Western art collector Phillip Anschutz and his Xanterra Travel Collection company recently trans - formed the resort properties formerly known as Furnace Creek Inn and Ranch in Death Valley National Park. Now known as the Inn and Ranch at the Oasis in Death Valley, both facilities were upgraded to reduce their carbon foot - prints, expanded, and in the case of the Ranch, almost com - pletely redesigned. The Inn at the Oasis has always been a luxury destination, said Trey Matheu, General Manager of the Oasis at Death Valley. Even when it first opened in 1927 without air conditioning, the Inn was designed for elegance and enticed Hollywood movie stars to vacation there. Perched at the edge of a low bluff, it overlooks a stunning view of the The new courtyard in front of the historic Furnace Creek Inn is one of many upgrades at the iconic Death Valley “oasis.” desert. Over the years, said Matheu, the Inn property has PHOTO COURTESY XANTERRA been upgraded and improved, but this most recent project was designed to take the already four diamond rated resort transformation during the remodeling process, especially in to the next level of luxury. the entry area now known as the courtyard. This is the social Twenty two private casitas were added to the property and center and the “heartbeat of the property,” said Matheu. In now two full-time health and wellness specialists staff the 2017 the old café, gift shop and buffet building was razed new Tranquility Day Spa. The historic main building was and rebuilt from the ground up in a style that evokes the given a face lift in which the designers took everything kinds of Western places author McMurtry writes about. “down to the studs and built it back up to that 1927-era type Xanterra’s Anshutz owns possibly the largest collection of of luxury,” said Matheu. Subtle changes made a big Western art in the world, said Matheu, and is a fan of difference in the overall ambience, said Matheu, such as Western literature. After reading McMurtry’s Last Kind using natural wood and leather in the decor and adding Words Saloon, released in 2014, Anshutz purchased rights many works of art from the Anshutz collection. to the name, hoping to use it for one of his properties. Death While amenities were added and the Inn expanded, it Valley seemed the perfect fit. remained substantially true to its nearly 100-year-old The architecture, explained Matheu, is Spanish Colonial- original, classic design. A newly constructed wedding and inspired, built to resemble an old-fashioned plaza. The new events venue across from the Inn rose Phoenix-like from the building includes an ice cream shop, a buffet, a two-story sit ashes of a past structure. Now an old Mission style garden down restaurant and saloon, complete with swinging doors, provides a stunning backdrop built upon the remains of a called the Last Kind Words Saloon, and an expanded gift few historic adobe walls. shop (where you can buy McMurtry’s eponymous novel, “The Oasis used to be a place you’d stay to explore Death among other things). The walkways have misters for the hot Valley. Now it’s becoming a destination resort that happens summer weather and the grounds offer plenty of outdoor to have a national park as one of its amenities,” said Matheu. park style seating, as well as a children’s playground and Meanwhile, back at the Ranch basketball and volleyball courts. The Ranch at the Oasis underwent the most dramatic The saloon is lavishly decorated with original works of American Western art and artifacts evoking a general southwest/Old West feel. While the theme is now more general Western nostalgia, “it’s always been our goal to keep the connection with the roots of Death Valley,” said Matheu. To that end, Xanterra kept the old Borax Museum open in its original location. All of the renovations were done with an eye toward reducing Xanterra’s footprint in Death Valley, said Matheu. Updating or rebuilding the structures at the Ranch significantly reduced water usage and improved efficiency in electrical consumption. This allowed Xanterra to provide more landscaping while still using less water than before. The world famous Furnace Creek golf course, adjacent to the Ranch, remains essentially the same, said Matheu, however some of the course was converted back to desert landscape. “It looks a little different but the green is the The courtyard at the Ranch at the Oasis. CONTINUED ON PAGE 7 6 Death Valley Vistiors Guide • 12th Edition The entrance to the Ranch at the Oasis is one of several new buildings at the historic location.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6 international tourists coming to catch a glimpse of the same experience,” said Matheu. The popular 19th Hole historic American West. restaurant was able to double its seating and add some For more information, visit OasisatDeathValley.com covered patio space with an unobstructed view of the desert. The Ranch’s 224 guest rooms were given fresh paint and new carpeting and Matheu said Xanterra plans to add more guest cabins to the property by 2020. Along with the new look come new options for entertainment at the Oasis, said Matheu. Xanterra is excited to offer weekly night sky viewing presentations on the golf course. They will continue to offer old favorites such as horseback and carriage rides from the Furnace Creek stables, “dive in” movies at the Ranch swimming pool, and simple pleasures such as corn hole and horseshoes. And of course, access to hiking and exploring the extraordinary desert. Matheu highly recommends visitors make reservations for a stay at the Oasis. Visitation has increased since the The western themed Last Kind Word Saloon at the Ranch at the facilities reopened in 2018, with growing numbers of Oasis
Stovepipe Wells Village The Authentic Death Valley Experience Lodging • Camping • Dining • Saloon • Gift Shop • Gas 760-786-2387 • www.deathvalleyhotels.com An authorized concessioner of Death Valley National Park
Death Valley Vistiors Guide • 12th Edition 7 Unique Dining Options in Tiny Tecopa he tiny town of Tecopa, on the possible, relying on family recipes and southeastern edge of Death Val - the genius of visiting chefs, playing live Tley National Park, may possibly music or brewing “weird beer” these be home to more restaurants per capita eateries offer an eclectic array of The Tecopa Bistro is the longest running than any city in the US. With four choices. eatery in town. restaurants and an official population Steaks and Beer, located in the PHOTO BY ROBIN FLINCHUM of 150, Tecopa beats by more than half “downtown” area of Tecopa, is a the average of larger cities that make popular hole in the wall with a tiny this claim. Front runner Durango, Col - dining room and spacious patio seating orado, calculated its average in 2018 as area built over a fish pond. Owner and one restaurant per every 88 residents. chef Eric Scott learned his craft on the In Tecopa, it’s one per every 37. Two of Las Vegas Strip and has a gift for those four establishments also include preparing steak, as well as a humble onsite brew pubs, likely to be the high - charm that makes eating at his est number of pubs per capita com - restaurant like stopping by the house of pared to any city in the country at one a friend. He’s been cooking here for per every 75 inhabitants. over three years, most of the time as a Of course, the Tecopa restaurateurs one-man operation, though he depend on more than local residents to sometimes hires an assistant when keep their kitchens busy and they things are especially busy. The recently expanded space at Death employ a variety of creative strategies Scott’s menu includes steak, of Valley Brewing. to attract visitors to their tables. Using PHOTO BY ROBIN FLINCHUM as many locally grown ingredients as CONTINUED ON PAGE 9
A Las Vegas chef runs Steaks and Beer with attention to detail and quality. PHOTO BY ROBIN FLINCHUM
The Tecopa Bistro, is focusing on “Food as Art” for the coming year. PHOTO BY ROBIN FLINCHUM
8 Death Valley Vistiors Guide • 12th Edition The Tecopa Brewing Company is a family operation featuring BBQ and locally crafted beer. PHOTO BY ROBIN FLINCHUM
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8 customers, such as the crystal skull in classical French cuisine, said owner course, and options such as a five mugs sold the first year the pub was in Courtney McNeal, and they’ll be course meal for two, gluten free business. This year, they are offering offering weekend specials paired with vegetarian pasta and a miso bone broth steins as a premium for membership in one of their craft beers. With the new with seafood and udon noodles. For the the brew club, which includes chef of board, brewer Wes McNeal will beer end of things, Scott relies on the discounts on beer purchases, t-shirts have time to focus on crafting new Death Valley Brewing Company next and more. The pub also has a large lager and ale recipes for the pub. door. recreation room with a billiards table, The Tecopa Brewing Company also Death Valley Brewing is entering its an unusual desert disc golf course out often hosts live music and other events sixth year as a brew pub with an ever back, and they recently began selling on weekends. changing and always inventive beer California lottery tickets for visitors In between the two pubs, in the heart menu. Owner Jon Zellhoefer and who are feeling lucky. of Tecopa Hot Springs, is the Tecopa manager Dan Leesburg are both On the other end of town is the Bistro, the longest running of all the passionate about the craft of brewing Tecopa Brewing Company and BBQ local eateries, opening its doors on the and, while they will keep a few regular restaurant, on the grounds of Delight’s grounds of the Tecopa Hot Springs favorites on tap, they are always excited Hot Springs Resort. Going into its Resort over ten years ago. The Bistro to try the next new recipe. The pub fourth season, the restaurant caters to changed ownership since then and recently expanded its kitchen and the resort’s overnight guests, as well as underwent renovations to upgrade its serves pizza with a variety of topping travelers passing through. It’s open kitchen to industry standards. This options for its patrons, as well as soft seven days a week and offers breakfast cozy, quirky eatery offers American pretzels. (weekends only) and lunch as well as fusion fare and is focusing on Food as Death Valley Brewing also offers the traditional BBQ dinners. This year, Art in the 2019-2020 season, said unusual premiums to their loyal the restaurant hired a new chef trained owner Ryan Thomas. “It’s the equivalent of an art gallery for people who cook.” The Bistro invites guest chefs who have a specialty dish to share. On the regular menu Thomas uses herbs, veggies and even meat grown on his own small farm in Tecopa. Thomas and his business partner Paul Barnes are both musicians and play live with their house band every weekend on an outdoor stage next door to the restaurant. With lots of patio seating, the Bistro patrons can enjoy the music and the fresh desert air.
Death Valley Vistiors Guide • 12th Edition 9 Tecopa has four hot springs resorts offer - The recently remodeled Shoshone Inn of - The newest soaking pool at Delight’s Hot ing a variety of rejuvenating experiences. fers a touch of comfort in the desert. Springs Resort. PHOTO BY BILL NEIL PHOTO BY ROBIN FLINCHUM PHOTO BY ROBIN FLINCHUM
Quirky, Comfy Lodging Brings the Outdoors In and Vice Versa einvention, renovation and an lovely, unobstructed desert view. While and air conditioning. It also hosts a emphasis on the natural world the private pools at Delight’s are couple of colorful vintage trailers Raround them are continuing clothing optional, the outdoor pool is bookable through Air B-and-B. themes for the entrepreneurs running suits required. Also in the heart of Tecopa, the hospitality businesses on the south- Delight’s offers six historic adobe Tecopa Palms RV Resort is open for RV eastern edge of Death Valley National cabins and three studio rooms. The parking and social activities in the club Park. In Tecopa, Shoshone and Death property includes an RV park and an house this season, while pools are Valley Junction hotel proprietors are onsite BBQ restaurant and brew pub. temporarily closed. Call for more focusing on their unique geography, The Tecopa Hot Springs Resort information. history and eco-biology to offer visitors found its niche bringing music outside. Out on the edge of Tecopa, Villa an unusual desert experience. It’s home to an outdoor stage where a Anita is an immersive art and lodging Delight’s Hot Springs Resort is one live house band plays every weekend experience. It is a combination B-and- of the oldest continually running through the cool weather season and B, performance piece, and living work businesses in the small town of Tecopa other bands perform at special events. of art. The proprietors, artist David with four individual, private hot The Tecopa Take Over, held every year Aaron Smith and photographer Carlo mineral water pools that have been the in November, is a growing desert music Roncancio, and their partners live and heart of its existence for decades. The festival held on the grounds. work at the Villa along with guests, pools are sheltered within a courtyard, The Resort offers 16 motel rooms, 4 volunteers, interns and other artists. protected from the wind and sun. Now, cabins with kitchenettes, tent camping The sometimes gothic, sometimes for visitors who want to experience the and RV spaces. Also on site is the earthy, sometimes startling and always hot springs waters out in the fresh Tecopa Bistro, an American fusion creatively original architecture and desert air, owners Wes and Courtney restaurant featuring farm to table décor draw artists, film makers, McNeal designed and built a large ingredients grown in Tecopa, and an adventure seekers and even wedding outdoor soaking pool. art gallery in the Resort office. planners from all over the world. The The elegant new feature is made up Across the street from the Resort, the structure is an ever expanding maze of of several smaller, hotter pools flowing Tecopa Hot Springs Campground art piece rooms constructed of many into a central pool maintained at or a offers tent camping, RV spaces and two found objects, including vintage little below 100 degrees and has a camping cabins with comfortable beds CONTINUED ON PAGE 11
Visitors to Villa Anita get a unique, im - mersive desert art experi - ence. PHOTO COURTESY VILLA ANITA
10 Death Valley Vistiors Guide • 12th Edition Cynthia’s Safaris helps visitors explore the desert. PHOTO COURTESY CYNTHIA’S SAFARIS
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10 The Shoshone RV Park also offers tent understated details, such as new beds, trailers. camping and all guests in Shoshone fluffy pillows, fresh paint and friendly Cynthia’s Safaris in Tecopa is shifting have access to the town’s delightful service. To encourage immersion in the focus, said owner Cynthia Keinitz, warm springs swimming pool. Meals desert silence and enjoyment of the from individual lodging to group can be had all day and evening at the truly dark night skies, there are no TVs events, especially intensive retreats. Crowbar Café and saloon, offering in the rooms. An on-site restaurant Former interior designer Keinitz’s traditional diner and Tex-Mex fare. serves California cuisine style breakfast unusual B-and-B is simple on the Shoshone keeps a naturalist on staff and lunch in a historic setting with outside, blending into the landscape to help visitors to this eco-village find windows onto the desert. she loves. Inside it is designed to their passion. Options include Marta Becket’s Amargosa Opera always emphasize the outside world, to environmentally responsible off-road House lost its famed founder in 2017 provide easy comfort and incredible tours, wildlife viewing at the Pupfish but continues to offer a wide variety or views, a draw to explore the desert and Pond natural area, dark night skies, quirky, clever, and unusual a good night’s sleep in elegant comfort bird watching and plenty of hiking. entertainment to its fans and visitors. at the end of a day well spent. New in Shoshone this season is From original interactive murder Cynthia’s offers off-road tours and an Karin Pine’s Transformational mystery plays to unusual opera, eclectic variety of experiences for group Bodywork Clinic. In her well ragtime and the Nutcracker ballet at visits. The lodging facilities include established former practice, Tecopa Christmas, the venue seeks to honor remodeled trailers and tipis and a stay Hot Springs Massage, Pine developed Becket’s legacy of promoting the arts. usually includes meals prepared with “a very effective and unique form of Tecopa is also rich in hiking local farm to table ingredients. healing massage as part of the healing opportunities, most notably the In Shoshone, town proprietor and experience of visiting the desert.” Grimshaw Lake Natural Area and desert advocate Susan Sorrells is Out in Death Valley Junction the watchable wildlife site, and the adding to the lodging opportunities Amargosa Hotel is continually Amargosa Canyon. Accessing the available with a few stand alone upgrading in small ways. The nonprofit extraordinary desert vistas of the properties. In addition to the Shoshone Amargosa Opera House foundation Amargosa Canyon is easy now that an Inn, which offers 17 upscale rooms, that runs the facility is careful not to official trail head, with picnic ramadas guests can now book though Air B- disturb the historic character of the and a pit toilet, exists at the edge of the and-B for a remodeled vintage trailer hotel while working to make its 16 parking lot of the China Ranch Date called Dutch’s Retreat, a historic cabin rooms as comfortable as possible for Farm. Stop here to see a working farm called Black Rock, or the Mojave modern day visitors. Guests experience in a desert oasis, stock up on local Bunkhouse, designed for group stays. the real history of the place, says dates and a trail guide at the gift shop. manager Bobbi Fabian, enhanced by
Death Valley Vistiors Guide • 12th Edition 11 The two, huge Borax 20-Mule Team Wag - ons and trailing water tank at the new wagon barn at the Laws Rail - road Mu - seum.
After a roundabout trip, the Borax Wagons are Home at Laws he instantly recognizable Borax Mall in the nation’s capital. Finally, after dazzling yet another 20-Mule Team Wagons took a While those parades have their fans Mule Days crowd this year, the wagons Tbit of a roundabout route to and carry a tad of prestige in the headed for their new permanent home. their new home in an impressive, world’s eyes, in the Eastern Sierra the On Memorial Day, May 28, a crowd of brand new barn at the Laws Railroad crowning achievement of the 20-Mule about 100 came to Laws to help Museum and Historic Village. Team Borax Wagons came when the dedicate the new, Borax 20-Mule Team The first leg of that journey involved whole outfit starred as one of the Wagon Barn. nearly a decade of research and work crowd favorites during several trips The big wagons were in the barn and fundraising that eventually down Bishop’s Main Street during the and, even without a cadre of mules, resulted in the construction of the annual Mule Days Parade. dazzled the crowd. The big, back huge, historically accurate wagons and The local pride came from two wheels are 7-feet high. The wagon box the gear needed to hitch 20 mules to sources. First was the familiar face of towers above the big wheels. The the two big freight wagons and the longtime Eastern Sierra packer and wagons are made of a beautiful, lightly water tank rolling behind them. teamster Bobby Tanner who helped stained wood. In contrast, dozens of Once the wagons were ready to roll bring the wagons back to life and black bolts dot the wagon boxes in a in 2016, they were re-introduced to the personally maneuvers the huge wagons testament to the authentic wagon- public by rolling down some pretty pulled by 20 mules, working two building trades that created the rolling impressive boulevards. First came the abreast, down the parade route. historical replicas. The barn itself is Pasadena Rose Parade, a California Second, the 20-Mule Team and Borax first-class. The skylights in the roof New Year’s Day tradition known are both local products and local send splashes of sunshine on the around the world. Then the wagons legends that contributed mightily to wagons. Long, white walls await and mules ventured through the notoriety and ongoing mystique of additional photos and explanatory text. Washington, D.C. to help celebrate the Death Valley region, Inyo County’s Those final touches will be added as
Independence Day on the National premiere tourist attraction. CONTINUED ON PAGE 13 ShoshoneShoshone VillageVillage WhereWhere thethe AdventureAdventure BeginsBegins
ShoshoneShoshone DevelopmentDevelopment P.O.P.O. BoxBox 7676 • StateState HighwayHighway 127127 760-852-4224760-852-4224 • Fax:Fax: 760-852-4250760-852-4250 Shoshone,Shoshone, CACA 9923842384 [email protected]@shoshonevillage.com • sshoshonevillage.comhoshonevillage.com
12 Death Valley Vistiors Guide • 12th Edition CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12 time goes on, thanks to a collaboration between Laws and the Bishop-based American Mule Museum. Besides those two local groups, the non-profit Death Valley Conservancy and Rio Tinto Borates (formerly Pacific Coast Borax), also played critical roles in bringing the 20-Mule Team back home to Inyo County. Tanner addressed the crowd and recalled how, about 10 years ago, he contacted Howard Holland, the Bobby Tanner and his crew bring Borax 20-Mule Team Wagons down the Mule Days Pa - rade Route in 2017. talented exhibit designer and board member of Laws Museum, with what had an out-sized impact on the wagon of an idea, and that idea is the Tanner called “a scheme” to build project. In 1999, Rose Parade officials development of the West.” replica borax wagons. And now, after contacted Borax and asked if the Chiaro noted that Rio Tinto put up a years of work and even more company could bring the famed $150,000 challenge grant that made “scheming,” the wagons and their new wagons and mules to the parade. The the fabrication of the wagons possible, home at Laws are a reality. company had marketed “20-Mule along with the outpouring of support While touring the country with the Team Borax” from 1906 to1950. But and donations from individuals and wagons, Tanner said the real “eye most company officers did not want to organizations. Another, even tougher opener” was that so many people, revive the wagons. obstacle was who could manage the whether in Kansas, Ohio or Maryland, But one corporate officer turned that mules and wagons. “Driving a 20-mule recognized the 20 mule team and thinking around and started the team was a lost art,” he said. Enter wagons. Especially those from farm process to bring the wagons back, Bobby Tanner and his crew. Then came families or those who were familiar Tanner said as a way to introduce years of painstaking research followed with mules, “knew exactly what they Preston Chiaro. He was managing the by exacting construction and were looking at” when they approached Boron mine at the time, and knew the fabrication using 19th and early 20th the huge wagons. Part of the reason for Eastern Sierra. More important, he century wagon-building skills and the wagons’ notoriety, he added, came knew the Tanner family as the packers “technology.” from “Ron Reagan” who hosted the TV at Red’s Meadow. Once completed and rolling, Chiaro show “Death Valley Days,” sponsored He got the wagon idea turned noted that a special aspect of the sight by Borax and featuring the wagons. Of around in the corporate offices. Then of the wagons in action is that “there is course, “Ron” is also known as the he was able to see the project through a beauty about it,” as 20 mules work in former governor of California, to completion since he eventually unison and respond to the commands president of the United States and, became president of US Borax, which of the teamsters. After watching the most importantly, one-time Grand was owned by Rio Tinto at the time – mules and wagons perform in parades Marshall of the Mule Days Parade. the most recent name for the Borax large and small, Chiaro said it is easy to While the 20-mule team can seem Company, which was known as Pacific see the “magic” created by the like “a local thing,” Tanner assured the Coast Borax when it built the first imposing, vintage vehicles. “It sparks crowd that “this is a significant deal,” borax wagons to haul the mineral out peoples’ imagination.” and the Borax wagons and the 20-mule of its Death Valley mines. And now, people can visit the wagons team is still “an American icon.” “These wagons have a real power,” in their new, home barn at Laws, and Tanner then recalled how one man Chiaro told the crowd. “It’s the power let their imagination run wild.
WWWHOLIDAYINNEXPRESSCOMPAHRUMP Death Valley Vistiors Guide • 12th Edition 13 How ‘White Gold’ led to naming Twenty Mule Team Canyon n the fall of 1926, the Pacific Coast Borax Company (Borax Company) Iwas nearing completion of its first hotel in Death Valley, the Furnace Creek Inn. At this time, Death Valley enjoyed no protective status as a Na - tional Monument or National Park. In fact, the very few roads that existed in the Death Valley region had all been built as part of the Borax Company’s mining operations. Long-time Borax Company employee and Land Superintendant Harry Gower had been assigned the task of overseeing construction of the new hotel. The details involved in its construction along with the horrific construction schedule demanded by 20 Mule team Canyon: Instead of yet another Devil-related name, the scenic canyon behind the Furnace Creek Inn was named 20 Mule Team Canyon to link it with the the Borax Company executives had Borax Company’s famous, widely recognized soap products, even though Borax was not consumed Harry and his staff. As the mined in the canyon, and the 20 Mule Teams never visited. construction work was winding down DEATH VALLEY NATIONAL PARK PHOTO and the opening of the hotel was just a few weeks away, it occurred to Harry Four miles east of the Furnace Cree to help market a product may have that the arriving tourists would want to Inn lay a twisting and colorful canyon never been devised! enjoy some scenic views and have some just south of the main thoroughfare The short 2.5 mile drive through historic points to visit while staying at through Furnace Creek Wash. Harry Twenty Mule Team Canyon provides “the Inn.” (or perhaps someone on his staff) visitors with beautiful and scenic vistas Thus, the race was on it not only to suggested naming this beautiful spot along with many hiking opportunities. develop a few of these points of Twenty Mule Team Canyon. They Twisted, eroded and eerie formations interest, but to name them as well. didn’t seem to mind that the famed abound. There are significant borax The name Death Valley already Twenty Mule Teams never traveled deposits found in the hills and conjured up an image among the through here. The canyon was so mountains here and though the Borax American public of fear, morbidity and narrow and twisting in places, that a Company never actively mined this a land inhabited by reddish ghouls team of two horses would have location, it did carry out extensive with pointed ears, tails and pitchforks. difficulty navigating through parts of it. development work to establish the Harry and the Borax Company thought But all of the arriving tourists to the value of their deposits. Hikers can it a wise marketing strategy to soon to open Inn would have to travel explore the area but for their safety, continue with this association. Devils right past this spot, and see its sign. A should never enter any old mine. Golf Course, Funeral Mountains, more innocuous form of using nature Badwater and many more Dante/Inferno-type names soon appeared on maps as “must see” places Open 7 Days A Week From 10am to 3pm for the Death Valley visitor. But Harry Gower also understood the huge marketing potential if they could promote the use of its magic soap product Twenty Mule Team Borax through the appeal and romanticism of soon to be opened Death Valley. Names that would help the traveling public to easily associate with their “white gold” (which was readily available at the local grocers back home) were also chosen for some of the tourist sites. 417. Main St. Beatty, NV 89003 (775) 553-2303 www.beattymuseum.org 14 Death Valley Vistiors Guide • 12th Edition The “jaw-dropping” vista Dante’s View
n the fall of 1926, the Borax Com - widening and improving of a road to to have been inspired by Dante’s pany was nearing completion of its the point through Nevada, and on into description of Purgatory. Inew hotel, the Furnace Creek Inn California as well! When the Borax Today, a well-designed paved roads in Death Valley. Knowing they would Company and their railroad partners winds its way to the parking area at need scenic points of interests for their came out to take a look, they agreed Dante’s View. Located about a 30 guests to visit when they arrived, hotel that this might just be the view spot minute drive from Furnace Creek, the executives asked residents in nearby they were looking for. views from the top are truly stunning towns if they knew of a particular “jaw- But as the group was returning to and breathtaking. Not only can one see dropping” viewpoint. Los Angles, they stopped in the small the two aforementioned spots, but a More specifically, the mining town of Shoshone and asked long time multitude of others as well. Telescope executives were looking for an local Charles Brown if he knew of a Peak, rising two miles about the great accessible view point that would better spot. “I don’t pay much attention Valley’s floor looms grandly to the west. provide not only sweeping vistas of the to scenery,” said Charles. “But I know The views up and down the Valley offer Valley, but of far off Mt. Whitney as one view that made me stop and look.” vistas so vast and “other worldly” that well. This would give tourists the thrill When he took the party to it, they they were used as a backdrop in the of seeing both the lowest and highest immediately agreed. Far below lie the original Star Wars movie. To the East is points in the contiguous United States shimmering salt flats of Badwater, at majestic Mt. Charleston, home to the from the same spot. 282 feet below sea level, while in the Las Vegas area’s only ski resort. Businessmen in the gateway town of far off distance glimmered the Sierra Straight down, cars crawl their way Beatty, Nevada tried to promote a Crest just north of Mt Whitney. A road along the Park’s road like ants. nearby area known as Chloride Cliffs was quickly graded and a small six- The view from Dante’s view is which they fittingly renamed “the Rim sided glassed in observatory was spectacular no matter what time of day of Hell.” They convinced Nevada erected at the top. you make it there. But should time governor James Srugham to fund the The name of the viewpoint was said allow, arriving in the early morning and watching the desert sky pass from inky black through indigo, deep purple, violet, red, orange, yellow and on to bright white, is an experience one will never forget. And watching the sun go down and the lights go out on the great Valley at sunset is an experience that will rival that of sunrise. There are short hikes that lead north and south of the parking area. There is no longer an observatory but primitive restrooms are located at a switchback about 1/4 mile before the top. Take a jacket, pack a snack or a meal, and spend some time at this magical Death Valley spot. You’ll find the time you Dante’s View overlooks Badwater Basin, the lowest elevation spot in North America. spend here very well worth it. NATIONAL PARK SERVICE PHOTO.
Death Valley Vistiors Guide • 12th Edition 15 Stars put on a spectacular show every night in Death Valley eath Valley National Park har - begins at your feet,” said Tyler bors some of the darkest night Nordgren, Associate Professor of Dskies in the United States. That Physics at the University of Redlands dark sky is key to its certification as the (Calif.) and International Dark-Sky third International Dark Sky Park in Association board member. “When my the U.S. National Park System. students and I look up at night from “Death Valley is a place to gaze in our southern California campus, we awe at the expanse of the Milky Way, can usually count 12 stars in the sky. follow a lunar eclipse, track a meteor However, less than a five hour drive shower, or simply reflect on your place from Los Angeles there’s a place where in the universe,” said National Park anyone can look up and see the Service Director Jonathan B. Jarvis universe the way everyone could 100 when the certification was announced years ago.” in 2013. “We greatly appreciate Tips for viewing and photographing the International Dark-Sky the night sky in Death Valley: Association certification. It illustrates Visit during the new moon — this is The bright night sky and the Milky Way the park’s commitment to protect when the moon is not visible which shines above the Harmony Borax Works. natural darkness and supports the means the sky will be darker and you PHOTO BY WESTON KESSLER wider mission to protect nightscapes in can see more stars. the entire National Park System.” Know what to look for — check out Where To Go “As the world becomes more the night sky almanac to right to get an Harmony Borax Works is located urbanized,” Jarvis added, “the value of idea of what might be visible and close to the Furnace Creek Visitor a starry sky only increases and our where. Center and provides a great place to ability to offer visitors these incredible Stay out long enough — it takes see the stars with little obstruction experiences is an integral part of the about 30 minutes for your eyes to from the mountains. There are also National Park Service mission to adjust to the night sky to see the most historic buildings and a mule cart for preserve our nation’s most cherished stars. night photography, which will make for places for this and future generations.” Use a red light —or put a piece of red an interesting foreground. Death Valley’s natural darkness, cellophane on your flashlight. This will Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes is located along with National Park Service minimize the effect of the light on your close to Stovepipe Wells and is a great actions to reduce excessive outdoor adjusting eyes. spot for seeing A LOT of sky. lighting, led the International Dark- Look at the horizon — Death Valley Unobstructed views can be found here, Sky Association to designate the park has large, towering mountains. If you but the close proximity to the highway as the third and largest International pick a low place to view the night sky, means the potential for light pollution Dark Sky Park. like Badwater Basin, some of the stars from headlights. “The Dark Sky Park designation could be blocked by the mountain Badwater Basin is located 17 miles represents not only the efforts of the ranges. Pick a large open area with south on Badwater Road. Milky Way park and its partners, but the some elevation to see the most stars. viewing can be somewhat obstructed dedication of avid amateur Bring binoculars — a simple pair of from the mountains, but seeing the astronomers who have sought the binoculars can be a great way to get a night sky from the salt flats is a unique, park’s world-class starry skies for closer look! other-worldly experience! Not to decades,” said Dan Duriscoe, of the mention that the salt flats are great for National Park Service’s Natural Sounds the foreground of a night shot. and Night Skies Division. To qualify for the dark sky designation, the park improved external lighting at facilities in the Furnace Creek and Stovepipe Wells areas, reducing energy consumption, sky glow, and glare. The designation requires the park to sustain its efforts FRONTIER to protect night sky resources and visitor education. Implementation of MOTEL the park’s lighting guidelines will improve the natural character of the " " night and leave the stars untarnished $ in other areas of the park. ###!"#!" “At Death Valley the sky literally $ 16 Death Valley Vistiors Guide • 12th Edition The Racetrack Playa and the ‘magic’ moving rocks amed naturalist John Muir once the desert sky. said, “Everybody needs beauty as Walking on the Playa is an Fwell as bread, places to play in experience in itself. The vastness of this and pray in, where nature may heal landscape becomes intensified the and give strength to body and soul.” further you walk on to this old dry lake Nature has many such temples. A place bed. As you travel toward the where one may visit and feel the power southwest corner, you begin to notice of the natural scene fill them with the Playa has become littered with strength and renewed enthusiasm for dozens of rocks. And the unusual thing life. Where the magic of the setting about these rocks is that many of them The famed “moving rocks” dot the Race - track Playa. brings forth the very best in us all. have a distinct trail furrowed into the DEATH VALLEY NATIONAL PARK PHOTO Death Valley National Park is a playa surface trailing from the rock as land of extremes, oddities and mystery. if to indicate the direction the rocks Tucked away in a remote corner of this have come from. Some of these trails expansive wilderness, lies a very special are straight, most are zig-zagged, many place. A place of great beauty, of great are curved and even some make 360- mystery and of much magic. degree loops. The Racetrack Playa lies at an These are the famous Moving Rocks elevation of 3,608 feet. The Playa is a of the Racetrack Playa. The Rocks have dry lake bed, about 3 miles long and 1 been studied by scientists for decades. 1/2 miles wide. The surreal setting is No one knows for sure exactly how stunning. The exceptionally flat play these rocks “move” though there is a glistens creamy white is the desert sun, most widely accepted (but not the only) and is surrounded by dark, brooding theory. This rock leaves its trail across the Race - and barren mountains. About 1/3 of During winter rains, enough water track Playa. the way down the playa, a small island may fall to form a shallow lake over the DEATH VALLEY NATIONAL PARK PHOTO of dark rocks thrusts dozens of feet into playa. As the water begins to evaporate, a thin layer of soft slick mud will form on the playa surface. At this high of an elevation, freezing nights and even days are not uncommon during the winter months, freezing the slippery Best Buffet In Pahrump! slick mud. Like many desert basins, the winds blow often...and often they blow with exceptional velocity. Strong winds will literally push the rocks across the China Wok partially frozen and slippery mud China Wok playa. As the winds change directions, so does the course of the rocks. Buffet & Grill The power of the scene will bring the Asian Cuisine • Habachi • Steak • Sushi most jaded urban dweller to their knees in this holiest of nature’s temple. The stark and vast beauty combines perfectly with natures “magic” of the Open 7 Days A Week moving rocks. Mon.-Sat. 11am-9:30pm, Sun. 11am-9pm The Playa is located 27 miles north of Ubehebe Crater on a fair dirt road. Depending on recent weather, the road can be quite rough and is not 580 S.775-727-9988 HWY 160 - Pahrump, NV 89048 recommended for ordinary passenger cars. Check with the Rangers for current road conditions before heading out. Be considerate of others and do not walk on the play if it has rained recently. Footprints will be left in the soft mud that will last until the next big rain. Walk onto the play only during dry conditions.
Death Valley Vistiors Guide • 12th Edition 17 ‘Bird Watching’ in Death Valley’s Star Wars Canyon tar Wars Canyon has become of Crowley Overlook off of Highway 190 over the canyon rim and then “burn the premier “bird watching” sites on the west side of Death Valley and turn” to give their fans a great Sin Inyo County. National Park. scene. Sometimes the jets just blast But the falcons, eagles and The overlook honors Father John through the desert air, focused on their nighthawks flying through the canyon Crowley, the “desert padre” who served mission. are not your standard feathered and promoted Inyo County and Death The Air Force and Navy have been friends. As the canyon’s name implies, Valley in the 1920s and ‘30s. That piece using Death Valley, Star Wars Canyon these “birds” and the rest of their flock of history is not what draws the jet set and much of southern Inyo County as a are high tech fliers that roar thought folks to the overlook and the edge of training area since World War II. The the canyon at up to 500 miles per hour. the canyon. They come to wait canyon is part of a restricted military These birds are combat jets and sometimes hours and sometimes days airspace that is used for air-combat military aircraft that scream down and to catch a glimpse and a photo of the training, supersonic test flights and through this narrow canyon at the edge military jets that race through the other training and flight operations. of Death Valley National Park in a canyons on training missions. The rise of social media has fueled blink of an eye. Or the blink of a The canyon is about 5,000 feet wide the fame of Star Wars Canyon among camera shutter. and about 5 miles long. That’s enough aviation photographers and enthusiasts The canyon, officially named room for jet jockeys to put on a show. who enjoy the thrill of witnessing a Rainbow Canyon is located just below Sometimes the jets come screeching modern flying machine moving and maneuvering at the speed of sound. The region’s numerous military bases provide a steady flow of jets. The aircraft cruising Star Wars Canyon can come from Naval Weapons Station China Lake, Naval Air Station Lemoore, Edwards Air Force Base, Fresno Air National Guard Base, and Nevada’s Nellis Air Force Base. Planes from foreign allies also are known to use the canyon for training. Patience and some luck top the list of requirements for those seeking a peek at the military jets. The Air Force and Navy do not provide any indication of when their planes will be in the canyon. It is not uncommon for plane- watchers to spend the day atop the canyon and not see a single plane. But A fighter jet roars over the sand dunes after coming out of Death Valley’s Star Wars Canyon. PHOTO BY JON CASSELL/PANAMINT SPRINGS RESORT CONTINUED ON PAGE 19
18 Death Valley Vistiors Guide • 12th Edition A jet fighter on a training run with the mountains of Death Valley’s Star Wars Canyon in the background. PHOTO BY JON CASSELL/PANAMINT SPRINGS RESORT
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18 “Jedi Transition.” But almost everyone movie is the final sequence when Luke then there are days when what seems else calls it Star Wars Canyon. The Skywalker and his fellow X-Wing pilots to be a steady stream of jets come over, canyon is on the other side of Death drop into the trench of the Empire’s through and around. Valley National Park from where Death Star and maneuver through the Besides the Crowley Overlook, there scenes from the first Star Wars movie narrow “canyon.” are two other nearby viewing points. were shot that portray the Skywalker Regardless of what plane spotters Plus, Panamint Springs Resort is at the family’s desert planet, Tatoonie. and the military call the canyon, the end of the canyon, which makes it Instead, there is another, more specific sight of a war plane twisting and another spot for plane-spotting. reason pilots and plane spotters link turning through Star Wars canyon is The Air Force acknowledges the this particular canyon to the first Star an extraordinary, otherworldly canyon’s link to the iconic Star Wars Wars movie. experience. movie franchise by calling the canyon The most cited reference to the
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4ECOPA (OT 3PRINGS 2OAD 4ECOPA #! WWWDELIGHTSHOTSPRINGSRESORTCOM Death Valley Vistiors Guide • 12th Edition 19 Fast Fun Facts about Death Valley Inyo County is home to the highest point County, is the largest in the contiguous 48 states, Mt. Whitney, national park in the lower 48 at 14, 508 feet above sea level, and the at 3.3 million acres. lowest spot in the western hemisphere, Inyo County has the lowest Badwater, at 282 feet below sea level. census-designated area in In July of 1913, Death Valley was in the the U.S., Furnace Creek midst of a particularly brutal heat wave. which is 179 feet below sea The temperature sign at the Fur - On July 10, Furnace Creek Ranch foreman level. nace Creek Visitor Center con - firms that “it’s hot in Death Oscar Denton recorded an air temperature The lowest golf course in the nation is Valley.” of 134°F, which today, is still considered located in Inyo County. The Furnace PHOTO BY DEATH VALLEY the hottest temperature ever recorded and Creek Golf Course is 214 ft below sea level. NATIONAL PARK a world record. A castle built based on lies between Death Valley also possesses a long list of friends is located in Death Valley. Enjoy The Heat Death Valley is the hottest place on Earth. lesser known weather extreme and Death Valley got its name after a child, In the summer months (May-September) records. The greatest number of in an ill-fated party of settlers, died. The temperatures average over 100°F (38°C), consecutive days with a maximum settlers escaped a grim fate and as they left and often exceed 120°F (49°C). The world’s hottest temperature, 134 °F was recorded temperature of 100 °F or above was 154 the valley, one turned and said, “Good bye, here in 1913. days in the summer of 2001. The summer Death Valley,” so naming it. of 1996 had 40 days over 120 °F and 105 The first European to enter Inyo County Death Valley National Park, however, is perfectly safe to visit in the summer with days over 110 °F. The summer of 1917 had is believed to have been Antonio Armijo some caution. 52 days where the temperature reached who in the spring of 1830 tread the “Old Drink and carry plenty of water: Carry 120 °F. On July 12, 2012, the day’s low Spanish Trail” between Santa Fe, NM and with you and drink at least one gallon (4 temperature was 107 °F tying the record Spanish settlements in California. liters) of water per day to replace loss from for the world’s hottest low temperature Legendary frontiersmen, John C. sweat, and drink more if you are active. Fluid and electroyte levels must be balanced, ever recorded. On the same day, the Frémont and Kit Carson passed through so have salty foods or sports drinks too. average temperature was 117.5 °F, which is Inyo County on the Old Spanish Trail. the world’s hottest temperature averaged Death Valley prospector and Travel prepared to survive: Stay on paved roads in summer. If your car breaks down, over 24 hours on record. businessman, Dad Fairbanks, founded stay with it until help comes. Carry extra The weather station at Furnace Creek Shoshone and is credited with having drinking water in your car in case of records an average of 1.5 inches of rain a rescued 50 people from Death Valley. emergency. year making it the driest spot in North Death Valley is 5,268 square miles Watch for signs of trouble: If you feel America. Three times in the past 85 years, making it larger than three US states and dizzy, nauseous, or get a headache, get out of the sun immediately and drink water or no measureable precipitation was 33 countries! Its dimensions roughly sports drinks. Dampen clothing to lower recorded for an entire year. From 1931 to equate to Santa Clarita to the Mexican body temperature. Be alert for symptoms in 1934 only 0.64 inches of rain fell over a border in length and from Santa Monica others. Heat illness can be severe and even deadly. 40-month period. to Riverside, California in width. And with The largest escarpment in the U.S. rises 91% of the Park designated as wilderness, Most visitors in the summer choose from the floor of Death Valley to the top of a visitor to Death Valley is almost assured mostly to tour by car. The main points remain open, but it is highly recommended Telescope Peak in the Panamint Range. of a wild and un-crowded experience. to stay on paved roads and close to your Death Valley National Park, in Inyo vehicle.
20 Death Valley Vistiors Guide • 12th Edition Where to explore, recreate and be amazed in Death Valley and Inyo County Inyo County is “The Other Side of largest in the lower 48 states at 3.3 million until they evaporate near the valley floor; California,” a vast expanse along the eastern acres (1.3 million hectares), and with the near the end of winter, showy blooms of edge of California that covers 10,000 southeastern corner of Inyo County, wildflowers appear; and in summer, square miles (16,000 sq. Km), an area comprises more than half the landmass of temperatures often reach 120° F/49° C. greater than six U.S. states (VT, NH, NJ, the county. Stovepipe Wells – A motel, restaurant, CT, DL and RI). Death Valley attracts photographers, rock pool, campground with RV sites and Inyo County is a land of extremes. It hounds, hikers and geologists to its convenience store and gas station are claims the highest and lowest points in the fascinating and austere landscape. located here. Old charcoal kilns and the 48-contiguous states, and the oldest trees Favorite sights include the nine-mile, ghost town of Leadfield are worth visiting. in the world. You’ll find hot and cold, wet looping Artist’s Drive with its many-colored Panamint Springs – They really mean it, and dry, barren and lush, refined and rock formations. Popular trails pass when they say “Last Gas” at Panamint common at different times and in different through the Golden Canyon, Mosaic Springs at the national park’s western parts of the county. Canyon and Wildrose Peak trail. Each of boundary. You’ll drive 30 miles before you The two most distinct aspects of Inyo these leads to amazing views and other- find the next gas or water. Remember, County are Death Valley and the Eastern worldly formations. The Badwater Basin you’re in Death Valley! Continue east on Sierra. Within these destinations are such salt pan is the lowest point in North CA-190 to cross Towne’s Pass into Death natural wonders as Death Valley National America -- 282 ft/86 m -- below sea level, Valley, south on CA-178 to Trona and west Park, the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, and the highest point in the national park is on CA-190 to Olancha and Lone Pine (CA- the Palisade Glacier, Mt. Whitney, Rock Telescope Peak at 11,049 ft./3,315 m. 136). Creek Canyon, the High Sierra and a classic Death Valley has more than its share of Shoshone – This desert town to the western landscape that has been seen in intimidating places: the Funeral southeast of the national park was once a countless motion pictures. With six million Mountains, Rhyolite Ghost Town, railroad center and rest area for local acres (2.4 million hectares) of public land, Badwater, Stovepipe Wells, Salt Creek and miners. It still serves as a service hub with Inyo County offers numerous opportunities Furnace Creek, among them. Yet, despite food, gas, lodging, supplies and RV sites. to explore, recreate and be amazed. these notorious-sounding names, several Tecopa – Named after Paiute-Shoshone Here is a brief rundown of what makes species of wildlife inhabit the park and it’s Indian chief, Tecopa was a hard-rock Death Valley and Inyo County so alluring: so popular that for much of the year (late mining camp in the late 1800s, though fall to late spring) available rooms and today, it is best known for its hot springs. campsites are far and few between. Natural hot water is contained in separate Park lodging centers at the Oasis bath houses for men and women, with RV (formerly Furnace Creek Resort) whose sites and a small store. A surprising sight famous Inn was opened in 1927 by the in this desert is Grimshaw Lake, a favorite Pacific Coast Borax Company of 20 Mule of water skiers. Nearby marshes attract Team fame. The Furnace Creek Inn was migratory birds and were a stopping point meant to save the company’s failing along the Old Spanish Trail, a National railroad. As the value of mining faded, so Historic Trail that passes through Tecopa. A family frolics in the Devils Golf Course. Death Valley National Park. PHOTO BY KURT MOSES did the railroad, but the Furnace Creek Inn A treat five miles south of Tecopa is China thrived. It is today among the most highly Ranch where you can buy all kinds of treats DEATH VALLEY sought and refined oasis to be found within made from dates… date shakes, date baked In 1849, a party of pioneers nearly the National Park System. Nearby The goods and take your date on a hike beside perished while attempting to cross this Ranch is a popular destination for families the federally recognized Wild and Scenic desert valley. Upon being rescued, one and RV campers. The park’s visitor center Armargosa River. At Dumont Dunes, 4- turned and exclaimed, “Goodbye, Death is located here and the Borax Museum wheelers, dune buggies and dirt bikes get Valley,” so naming it. Today, a million displays artifacts, Borax wagons and other airborne in the dunes and take more people say hello to Death Valley National historic equipment from the park’s past. terrestrial tours through scenic canyons. Park, each year. The national park is the Each season in Death Valley has its attraction. In winter, snowflakes tumble CONTINUED ON PAGE 22
• FREE Continental Breakfast • FREE WiFi Located In The • Deluxe Accomodations • Cable Heart Of Bishop • Fish Cleaning & Freezing Facilities w/Large Flatscreens Easy Walk To Dining & Shopping TURN OFF MAIN STREET AT ELM STREET www.RedRoof.com/property/ca/bishop/rri900 800-356-3221 • 150 ELM ST, BISHOP • 760-873-3564 Death Valley Vistiors Guide • 12th Edition 21 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21 Badwater Basin, as seen from Dante’s View. OWENS VALLEY DEATH VALLEY NATIONAL PARK PHOTO One of the earliest American explorers described the Owens Valley as containing "ten thousand acres of fine grass." Today, it is mostly arid. As told in Marc Reisner’s book, Cadillac Desert this once-fertile farmland, populated with fruit trees, was the victim of California’s Water Wars of the 1900s in which water rights to the Owens River were obtained by Los Angeles. Today, Shoshone Cultural Center and Museum to that lead to the Palisade Glacier and a third of LA’s water comes from the valley learn about the first inhabitants of the area Eastern Sierra. Outfitters run horse through the LA Aqueduct. Court rulings and to enjoy experiencing one of the tribe’s packing trips to remote alpine lakes. and actions by the Los Angeles Department cultural events. Numerous fishing holes are found along of Water and Power have helped restore Today, Bishop is the center of operations Big Pine Creek and the Baker Ponds. The fish habitat along the river, making it again for the largest public utility in the nation, Owens River teems with trout, catfish and one of the finest fly fishing streams in the the Los Angeles Department of Water and bass. West. Power, which provides water and power to Independence – The county seat since Bishop – Calling itself a Small Town with the nation’s most populated city and 1866, Independence is the center of a Big Backyard, Bishop is the hub for provides access to the streams it manages regional history with its historic recreation of all kinds, from rock climbing for fishing. Southern California Edison also courthouse; the Edwards House, oldest and bouldering in the famed Alabama got its start in Bishop, and continues to structure in the county; the Commander’s Hills, to fishing in the Owens River, Bishop operate hydroelectric power plants in the House, a century-old Victorian home; the Creek Canyon (also a fall colors hotspot) Bishop Creek Drainage, and its efforts to Mary Austin home (she wrote Land of and various local lakes. Bishop is also the dam up streams and enlarge natural lakes Little Rain); and the Eastern California jumping off point for hikers seeking the created a world-class string of fishing holes. Museum, with its extensive exhibits, solitude of the numerous high Sierra trails Big Pine – This small town prides itself artifacts, photographs, native plant garden that wander into the unspoiled wilderness on being a gateway to the majestic Sierra and historic mining and farm equipment. west of town, which also provides dramatic Nevada and White Mountains. Drive east Good fishing is found nearby at backdrop and sunsets that cannot be and you find the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Independence Creek, the Onion Valley and forgotten. Forest. Drive west and you find trailheads The most populated town in Inyo County, CONTINUED ON PAGE 23 Bishop also has the most number of accommodations and services. Bishop Come Stay With Us • Over 100 RV Hookups began as a ranching town. Later, ranches evolved into pack stations with their sure- Stay for the Night • Stay for the Week footed mules carrying the gear of fishermen Stay as long as you need. and campers back into the Sierra. If any We welcome all! animal expresses the heart of Inyo County, it is the hard-working, intelligent, yet stubborn mule, which is honored annually during Bishop’s “Mule Days.” Long before the ranchers arrived, Paiute Shoshone people lived here. Their reservation sits northwest of town and the Paiute Palace Casino adds excitement to a stay in Bishop. Many of Bishop’s visitors include a stop at the Owens Valley Paiute 520 S. Richmond Rd., Ridgecrest • (760) 375-8000
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22 Death Valley Vistiors Guide • 12th Edition CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22 located in the camp’s former auditorium, a one another in Inyo County, California. along the Owens River. With a name like number of replica barracks and buildings Sierra Bighorn can be seen in Eastern Independence, it’s understandable why the offer insights into camp life and a self- Sierra canyons. From U.S. 395, north of town has one of the best Independence Day guided auto tours is offered. Bishop, follow Pine Creek Road through parades with traditional early morning flag Round Valley. In the last couple of miles raising, pancake breakfast, fun run/walk, EASTERN SIERRA before the road ends, look up to the north small-town parade, homemade ice cream Mt. Whitney – On the east side of the to see the buff-colored coats of the Sierra and pie social, kids’ games, an arts and Great Western Divide, Mt. Whitney stands Bighorn Sheep as they graze among pines crafts show, deep-pit barbecue and sunset 14,508 ft., the tallest mountain in the and brush. You will be surprised how well fireworks show. contiguous United States. Hikers reach the they blend into the landscape and how Lone Pine – One of the most filmed and summit through Whitney Portal, 13 miles difficult it is, at first, to see them. With photographed landscapes in the county is west of Lone Pine. It’s a 10.7 mile hike and practice, it becomes easier. There are no found surrounding Lone Pine. West of requires planning, a wilderness permit and formal tours to see the bighorn, however town are the Alabama Hills, named by careful attention to advisories regarding the the Bishop office of the California locals who were Southern sympathizers precautions of hiking at high altitudes, Department of Fish and Game can explain during the American Civil War. This obtained within the Eastern Sierra how best to see the elusive bighorns. Some collection of irregular, ruddy, windswept InterAgency Visitor’s Center, south of Lone tips: the Bighorn will not let you get closer boulders backed by a horizon of Sierra Pine. than a couple of hundred yards, so bring peaks, has been the backdrop for about 400 Palisade Glacier – The southernmost powerful binoculars or a camera with a Hollywood films from “Gunga Din,” to glacier in the U.S. and the largest in the telephoto lens and enjoy seeing them from “Gladiator,” to “Rawhide,” to “Iron Man.” Sierra Nevada is located west of Big Pine a distance. It’s where Roy Rogers first mounted and is visible from U.S. 395. The glacier Trigger, where Tom Mix rode to the rescue sits at the base of Palisade Crest in the WHITE MOUNTAINS and where Robert Downey Jr. got blown North Fork Basin. The scenery attracts Ancient Bristlecone Forest – Thirty-six up. Lone Pine has been seen in so many hikers to trails that follow the ancient miles east of Big Pine in the White movies, that it has commemorated its fame glacier. Mountains at elevations over 9,000 ft grow by hosting the annual Lone Pine Film Rock Creek Canyon – Between Bishop the oldest living trees. The oldest of them, Festival. The Lone Pine Museum of and Mammoth Lakes is picture-perfect Mehtuselah, is estimated to be nearly 4,800 Western Film History preserves the motion Rock Creek Canyon. Rugged Eastern years old. Several groves of the venerable picture history of Inyo County with film Sierra sawtooth peaks rise above emerald trees can be seen. Exhibits at the visitor memorabilia, cars, western carriages and meadows, populated with fluttering aspens center at Schulman Grove describe the an 84-seat theater. and cut my meandering clear streams. trees. From Big Pine, travel east on CA-168 Manzanar National Historic Site – Inyo National Forest and the John Muir to the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest During World War II, about 10,000 people Wilderness – For complete retreat, Scenic Byway. of Japanese ancestry, about 60 percent backpack or take a mule pack trip to the being American citizens, were brought here high country, to dozens upon dozens of to the Manzanar War Relocation Center as remote glassine lakes with romantic names part of the “war hysteria” and racism that like Lake Helen of Troy, Elinore Lake, swept America after the bombing of Pearl Moonlight Lake and the Treasure Lakes. Harbor. Manzanar was one of 10 You will understand why John Muir wrote, Relocation Centers that eventually held “Climb the mountains, and get their good about 120,000 people of all ages of tidings.” Few experiences are as Japanese descent for the duration of WW emotionally satiating as being in the II. Finally, in the 1980s, the US government rarified air of the Eastern High Sierra in formally apologized to the internees for settings whose beauty defy description. their imprisonment without charges. The Sierra Bighorn Sheep - Three subspecies site in now in the hands of the National of bighorn sheep live in the United States. It’s always a good idea to take water and friends Park Service. An interpretive center is You can see two of them within minutes of when hiking in Death Valley. DEATH VALLEY NATIONAL PARK PHOTO
Death Valley Vistiors Guide • 12th Edition 23 Your Oasis in the Desert
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