The weather is MUCH better today! Bright sun, little wind and temperatures would range from mid 60s to low 70s, depending on elevation. Still cool for Death Valley. (Its odd that we haven't made use of the pool - buts its been too cold!)
First thing this morning, while Sam hung around the hotel, I went off to hike my favorite trail - Zabriskie Point. Its about 3.5 miles to go all the way down to Golden Canyon, where you either have to be picked up, or hike all the way back! So I hiked up to the top, to get the fantastic views, then come back down. Its about 1.25 hours, about 2 miles. Lots of people on the trail! Very special! There are other sections of this loop that I have not done - next time!
After a leisurely breakfast we headed south on the park road, stopping for the gorgeous views at Artist's Drive and Artist's Palette. We drove past Bad Water (282 ft below sea level); too crowded to park!
We left the park at its southern boundary, crossing over the Black Mountains, and into the burg of Shoshone (pop 31). We would return later for dinner at the Crowbar. We continued down to the China Date Ranch, in Tacopa Hot Springs, one of the coolest places in these parts! Its literally an oasis out in the barren dessert where a long time date growing operation is in full swing. The "real" reason for coming down here, however, is to get a "Date Shake" and browse the very eclectic souvenir/whatever shop.
On this visit we discovered the Amargosa Wild and Scenic River designation, which included a 3 mile loop trail. We hiked a little it of it, a very enjoyable walk. It seems odd to have a Wild and Scenic river when there's no water! We never knew China Ranch was a hiking destination.
Returning to Shoshone we stopped for early dinner at the Crowbar Bar and Grill. We had driven past this place on previous trips and there always seemed to be a lot of cars parked out front! I had read a Facebook post indicating that their French fries were world famous! We had quesadilla and French Fries which were awesome!
We got back to the hotel around 6:30 to relax after a busy and successful day!
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| This is a "Phainopepla"....really |
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