Greetings from Death Valley National Park

It was late evening in mid-May as we pulled in to the visitor’s center where the thermometer read 106 degrees, but as the hot winds blew across the desert floor, the invitation to explore further could be felt. My father, my greatest hiking partner was along, and we looked at each other and smiled, knowing the other had felt the same call. We made some brief stops, then proceeded to drive, gaining elevation along the way. The park was virtually empty, which was just what we wanted. We found a rugged and almost impassable road and drove back until we had to stop, then quickly donned our backpacks and headed up a trail. Once on foot what formerly looked to be void of life was anything but. We were surrounded by plants and small desert dwellers that made their living in one of earth’s harshest environments. That night as countless stars filled the skies and silence fell all around I had a serene feeling that I was in my element. To truly experience the magic of this place is to fully immerse yourself in its depths and let go.

Sincerely,
Bobby