The park is located in the Mojave Desert in California that has been declared an International Biosphere Reserve to balance the conservation of nature and cultural heritage with sustainable resource development.

Death Valley got its name from pioneers who got lost in the area. After their near-death experience, one of the men in the group nicknamed the area Death Valley. It is the hottest and driest place on Earth, with temperatures soaring above 120-degrees Fahrenheit in summer.

Furnace Creek recorded 134 F (56.7 C) on July 10th, 2013. On July 15th, 1972, the surface temperature in Furnace Creek was recorded at 201 F (93.9 C).

Badwater Basin is a pool of saltwater located at the lowest place (- 85m / 280ft) in the Western Hemisphere. It’s the starting point for the Lowest to Highest Route through Death Valley.

Culture & History: The name “Badwater” comes from a surveyor’s mule that refused to drink the saline water.
In 1977, Al Arnold became the first to run from here to Mt. Whitney. He had to wear pioneer-style “ice vests” and lost 15 lbs during the effort.

Nature Highlights: You are standing on a massive salt crust. Thousands of years ago, Lake Manly covered this spot; now, it is a polygonal salt formation that looks like another planet.

Running: The heat here radiates off the black asphalt at 130°F+ (54°C).
Pro tip: Run on the white lines of the road to keep your shoes from melting.

Clubs: The “Badwater 135” legends. This is holy ground for ultra-runners.

Eat/Buy: Your last chance for “civilized” snacks is the Furnace Creek General Store nearby. Buy salt tablets—you’ll need them.

Sleep: Furnace Creek Ranch. Enjoy the spring-fed pool; it’s the last water you’ll see that isn’t in a bottle for a long time.