We return to the bizarre world of Death Valley National Park at a much more reasonable time of year: Winter.

Return To Death Valley Death Valley National Park

It’s been more than half a year since we were back in Death Valley National Park. Then, the temperature was 120 degrees. Today, it is 64 degrees. Perfect.

We left the casino early in the morning. If we stayed too long, they may realize what a mistake they made giving me those credits and demand the money back! The drive to Death Valley is over four hours. So there’s a lot to be done. Yet, we couldn’t help making a few stops along the way.

A Monstrous Vision

The stones appeared around a bend in the road like some monstrous vision. The effect is profoundly surreal. But what struck me most was the urge to climb them.

Spotted along the road to Death Valley — Sometimes, someone takes it upon themselves to highlight what was already hinted in the cracks and crevices of nature. These monstrous boulders are a random surprise in an otherwise desolate stretch of desert highway.

Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes

Until today, we had only seen the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes of Death Valley from a distance. Today, we climbed them. We kicked off our shoes and scampered, barefoot, in the sand. They were already scarred with the footsteps of many former visitors. We trudged up one slope and slid down the next. The dunes hid behind each other. Each time that I thought we were almost there, there was another sandy slope. Yet, as we neared less trodden territory, the dunes were even more amazing.

Stovepipe Wells Campground

After the dunes, We settled into the campsite with a 6-pack of beer and an 8-pack of hot dogs. Some days, it’s nice to just keep things simple. As we finished off our last beers, the campground host wandered by to introduce himself. He has been hosting this campground for the last three years and wants no other position. If you ever find yourself in the area, say “hi” he’s a friendly fellow.