Crossroads on the way to Ubehebe Crater
Death Valley is the largest National Park in America and it also harbors the most extreme conditions as well. During the peak of summer in July and August temperatures can reach 125 degrees Fahrenheit….in the shade. Despite it’s ominous name and harsh environment; Death Valley has beauty and mystery that you cannot find anywhere else on earth
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Death Valley Sailing stones- Wait! I think I just saw one move!
The Racetrack Playa: The Racetrack Playa is a dry lake bed best known for it’s moving rocks, also commonly referred to as “sailing stones”. The sailing stones are a geological phenomenon as they slide across the playa without human or animal intervention, leaving a trail behind them as proof of their mysterious movement. Scientists believe that it is caused by an incredible combination of ice on the playa and wind that “sails” the stones across the lake bed. No one had actually seen a rock move, so the mystery lives on.
Death Valley Racetrack Playa
Reaching the Racetrack Playa does require a high clearance or 4×4 vehicle as it is 27 miles of washboard road to reach the area. So this is definitely not something you would want to drive your Lost Campervan on, as the LC vans are low clearance vehicles and not insured for off road adventures. However, there are some great options you can arrange for your visit so that you do not miss out on this fascinating opportunity. There are Jeep rentals and tours through Death Valley that are a great way to see the beauty that can only beheld with an off road vehicle. For more information check out Farabee’s Jeep rentals and Tours in Furnace Creek, Death Valley. http://farabeesjeeprentals.com/ There are also day trip tours out of Las Vegas.
Ubehebe Crater, Death Valley
Ubehebe Crater: This amazing crater was formed by a maar volcano which occurs when volcanic magma rises high enough to hit ground water causing a steam explosion! This is the largest of the maar volcano craters in Death Valley. It spans a half mile wide and is over 750 feet deep. It is a sight that reminds us of the sheer power of mother nature. The crater is estimated to be 800 years old – 7000 years old. Scientists are still debating the evidence, another Death Valley mystery. Ubehebe Crater can be reached with a Lost Campervan as the journey there a 6 mile paved road off of the main highway to reach the 1/2 mile walking trail to the crater. A trip to Scotty’s Castle also ties in well to make a full day out of your adventure.
Things to know before traveling to Death Valley:
Come prepared. Always travel with plenty of water, a hat, sun block and hydrating snacks. With a Lost Campers Campervan you choose to travel to Death Valley at your own risk and renters are liable for towing fees out of Death Valley, however we will always provide assistance to make sure you are safe and sound. Many areas of this National treasure are remote and do not have any services and there is scattered cell phone reception. If you do not have cell service and are in need of help, sending a text message is a good idea because a text will keep trying to send until it successfully goes through. Make sure your gas tank is topped off and the fluids and waters of the van are where they should be. Try to avoid running the air conditioner on the higher settings for long stretches, give it a break periodically to avoid the vehicle over heating. Always check the National Park website for any current park warnings so that you can have a safe trip. It is also a good idea to stop into the visitor’s center and ask any questions you may have about the park with a Park Ranger directly. http://www.nps.gov/deva/planyourvisit/things2know.htm
Death Valley awaits you. Happy Travels!
Submitted by Launi Haygood- Death Valley Campervan Fan