Have you ever heard about Death Valley? It’s located in the California desert which over 100 miles long with temperatures reaching up to 50º C in summer. There’s a mysterious things which happens in this desert where rocks of up to 300kg manage to slide along the ground without any kind of explanation. The locals say that spirits move the rocks, or maybe they’re just playing with us. We’re going to share with you the secret of the sailing stones in Death Valley.
Why is it called Death Valley?
It’s said that Death Valley got its name in 1948 when a carriage of immigrants got lost in the valley and the passengers had to fight for survival, one of them didn’t make it. When they were finally rescued one of them said ‘goodbye death valley’
Racetrack, sliding stones
Among all the areas which can be visited in Death Valley, there’s one which impressed us more than the rest, the Racetrack. Racetrack is a rather dry lake in the Panamint Mountains.
This is the place where the rocks move on their own in a mysterious way. There have been investigations as to whether someone is actually moving the rocks but there are not traces of human contact and the exact explanation has still not yet been found.
Scientists say the reason could be because of the ice which is formed on the bed of the lake, when the ice sheet begins to thaw; the soil becomes wet and with a little bit of wind, the rocks can slide.
How could this wind move rocks of up to 300kg? Well there’s one thing we are certain of, and that is nature never fails to surprise us.
Visit Death Valley
As isolated and crazy as it may seem, it is possible to visit this extraordinary place on the planet.
One of the best routes to take by car is beginning in Las Vegas which takes around 2 hours.
Where to stay in Death Valley
Some of the nearest villages where you can stay in Death Valley include Arroyo furnace and Stovepipe Wells.
In the summer the temperatures are around 50Cº but in winter it’s a more pleasant 20ºC.
If you’re daring even you can visit in summer, read this guide on Death Valley where they explain all the steps you should follow if you want to travel in the hot months. Some tips include drinking 4 litres of water a day and not expecting to use your phone as it most likely won’t have signal in the park.
Admission price with car is around $25 for one week.
7 other areas in Death Valley
As we mentioned earlier, Racetrack is not the only thing you can see in this mysterious park. There are many other areas of interest which you such see on your visit to Death valley
Artist’s Pallette
Artist’s palette was given its name due to its unusual colours which come from chemicals in volcanic eruptions.
Badwater
Badwater used to be a lake over 3000 years ago, now it’s full of salt crystals and completely white. It’s around 86 metres below sea level.
Charcoal Kins
Charcoal Kilns were used in 1877 to dry cold and make fuel.
Dante’s View
From Dante’s View you can enjoy incredible views of Death Valley national park
Devil’s golf course
The Devil’s Golf course got its name from the salt flats which have formed in holes in the ground, making is look a bit like a golf course
Mesquite Dunes
These amazing white sand dunes make you feel like you’re really inside a desert and many famous filmed were shot here.
Zabriskie Point
Zabriskie Point is the most mined area of the park and another great place to enjoy a wonderful view.
