Death Valley was one of the most remarkable places I’ve visited in the U.S. It is so quiet you can hear birds way off in the distance. In one side canyon my ears started ringing as my brain sought some sound as it’s used to hearing. Soon I heard what I thought was the tinkling of wind chimes so I stopped to listen but when I stopped so did the wind chimes. Everytime I would walk a few paces the chimes would start and when I’d stop the chimes would cease. I came to realize that the sound I was hearing was caused by the stones under my feet clinking together as I took each step. Pretty amazing!
The views of shadows on the rock formations as the sun rose was also memorable but you’ve got to get out early to catch it. Then there’s the sand dunes, colorful mineral deposits, historical areas, and even palm trees. I slept in my car but there are three lodging areas plus a campground: reservations are an absolute must. Enter Death Valley from the Southeast and leave from Stovepipe Flats headed West: the views are breathtaking. I’ve been there twice and I’m ready to go back.
