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Death Valley National Park

National Parks Traveler Podcast Episode 232 | Heat Week In The National Parks

Thermometer at Death Valley displaying 125 degrees Fahrenheit

This summer has been one of the hottest for the entire world, with temperatures rising above 100 degrees Fahrenheit quite frequently. Here in the United States, there are many places where the heat has gone well above 100 degrees. And at Death Valley National Park, the temperature this past week attracted crowds hoping to see it reach 130 degrees.
 

Tanker Truck Crash Spills About 5,000 Gallons Of Asphalt In Death Valley National Park

A tanker truck trying to negotiate the steep Mud Canyon Road in Death Valley National Park against regulations crashed when the brakes went out, spilling about 5,000 gallons of emulsified asphalt and 150 gallons of diesel, according to the National Park Service.

Alluvial Fan and Devil's Cornfield, Death Valley National Park

A huge alluvial fan coming down from the Panamint Mountains and arrowweed that looks like bundled corn left to dry, Death Valley National Park

Prior to reaching the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes from the Furnace Creek side of CA-190, you’ll notice an interesting feature on either side of the road. This is the Devil’s Cornfield. During the early days of Death Valley National Park, promoters gave interesting landmarks and features unusual names.

Rebecca Latson

Exploring Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes Near Stovepipe Wells, Death Valley National Park

Two people exploring the environment at Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Death Valley National Park

"These dunes are the best known and easiest to visit in the national park. Located in central Death Valley near Stovepipe Wells, access is from Hwy. 190 or from the unpaved Sand Dunes Road. Although the highest dune rises only about 100 feet, the dunes actually cover a vast area. This dune field includes three types of dunes: crescent, linear, and star shaped. Polygon-cracked clay of an ancient lakebed forms the floor. Mesquite trees have created large hummocks that provide stable habitats for wildlife. Sand boarding is permitted on these dunes."

Rebecca Latson

INN Member

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