On the way to Death Valley National Park, your guide will fill you in information into the area’s climate, history, wildlife, and terrain. From its elevation to its temperature, this area is a destination of extremes. A stop at Area 51 Alien Center gives you a chance to collect quirky Area 51-themed souvenirs.
Rhyolite ghost town and Goldwell Open Air Museum are next on the agenda; abandoned long ago with the shells of the town bank and railway station remaining. From Rhyolite, a stop at “Hell’s Gate” reveals a panoramic view of Death Valley National Park. A walking tour at Salt Creek boardwalk reveals Desert pupfish alive and well. Stops at the Borax Works Historic Mining site and Death Valley Visitor Center with a chance to shop at the gift shops.
Badwater Basin is next on the agenda. Take photos of the sign showing 282 feet below sea level as the lowest point in the western hemisphere. Your guide will explain how the altitude and terrain affect the weather to make this one of the hottest places on the planet. Thousands of years ago, Badwater Basin was a lake that evaporated. The saltpans that remain are an unforgettable sight. On the next stops, you’ll see why the Artist’s Palette is named as it is. You’ll visit the historic The Oasis at Death Valley built in 1927. At Zabriskie Point you’ll overlook for another surprising vista of Death Valley. One final adventure awaits: An off-road driving tour of 20 Mule Team Canyon to learn the history of mining.