Oct 24 2008
Mesquite Sand Dunes, Death Valley National Park
From the alpine forest region of Inyo County at Bishop Creek Canyon, we move to Inyo County’s barren land at Mesquite Sand Dunes, Death Valley National Park.
Mesquite Sand Dunes, Death Valley National Park
From the blazing colors of autumnal hues , we move to the subdued tones of the earth and sky.
Mesquite Sand Dunes, Sunset
Mesquite Sand Dunes, Sunset
Death Valley is more popularly known for its soaring temperature, the 2nd highest temperature recorded in the world is at Furnace Creek area of Death Valley. Though summer temperature can soar to over one hundred degrees, but from late fall to early spring, the temperatures are pleasant. In fact, during winter, the daytime high is in the 50s- 60s (15- 18 oC) and night time low is in the mid 20s - 30s ( 0 – 5 oC) , just perfect for enjoying the park. Reported temperatures in Death Valley are located in Furnace Creek area which is at low elevation, but Death Valley National Park also includes the mountains bordering it in almost all sides. The higher elevation of Death Valley during wintertime has daytime high in the 40s- 50s ( 5 – 10 oC) and nighttime low in the 20s ( 0 oC to -10oC). Though summer temperatures soar beyond one hundred at low elevation, but the higher elevation remains cooler providing a relief for its wildlife. Best time to visit Death Valley is from late fall to early spring, when the temperature is cooler. At this time of the year, you see the similarity between low elevation and high elevation, that is, they both look white but from different reasons. The low elevation looks white from the salt deposits, whereas the high elevation looks white from the snow covered slopes.
Old Mequite Sand Dunes, late afternoon
Death Valley got its name from a small group of white emigrants who in 1849 ( The Forty-Niners ) wanted to make a short cut to the gold fields of California. Prior to their discovery of Death Valley, the area is inhabited by Panamint Indians. Their crossing of the valley marked the beginning of the turbulent history of Death Valley and its mountains. Despite its name, Death Valley offers magnificent diversity beyond compare.
Sand Dunes, Early Morning
There are varied geological formations in Death Valley to explore and experience. For geologists, Death Valley is their Disneyland. One of the more visited region of Death Valley are the Sand Dunes. The most accessible sand dunes in Death Valley National Park are in Stovepipe Wells tucked into the Mequite Flat in the North end of the park. Mesquite Sand Dunes are almost surrounded by mountains in all sides.
Mountain Bordering Sand Dunes, Sunset
Mountain Bordering Sand Dunes, Sunset
For the geology of sand dunes, please click here to go to the Death Valley Dune geology.
A hike into the Mesquite Sand Dunes can be a long one or a short one, can be arduous or easy, as there is no formal trail. The hike is up to you how you want to make it. The highest dune in this area is at 140 ft, and a hike to it requires climbing a series of smaller dunes.
Sand Dunes Hike
Sand Dunes Hike
The height and shape of the dunes vary daily due to shifting winds and gravity. Hiking in sand dunes call for patience, as it is challenging to walk here at your normal pace. The burrowing sand definitely slows you down, but definitely this is a fun and relaxing walk.
On Top of Tallest Dune
On Top of Tallest Dune
Sand Dunes like these takes thousand of years to form. Flash floods and speeding storm waters would send tiny grains of quartz and feldspar from the weathered rocks and boulders up high in the mountains into the valley floor.
Mesquite Flats Sand Dunes
The aridity of Death Valley would dry out these tiny grains fast and the wind will blow the sand but they get stuck when they reach insurmountable obstacle. The sand then piles up, forming ripples and dunes.
Avoid the sand dunes during mid-day even in winter for the sand easily heats up. Best time to enjoy the sand dunes is either at early morning or late afternoon. For seeing ripples and animal tracks, the best time to visit is early morning.
On Top of Tallest Dune at Stovepipe
Happy sand boarding!
More of Death Valley National Park Wonders in Inyo County to come…….
