Death Valley Days

Death Valley Badlands

This past weekend my brother, a friend, and I flew down to Las Vegas, rented a car, and headed out to Death Valley for a couple of nights of camping and hiking.  In the driest spot in North America we experienced rain two out of three days.  That one sunny day, sandwiched between storms, was stunning however.  Also, a little rain on the desert always tends to accentuate the colors.  In a place defined by dryness, it is amazing what flowing water has created.  Incredible place.  I need to go back.  Next time it will be for a lot longer.

Salt Flats near Badwater

View from our campsite

Salt Creek flows!

Salt Creek Boardwalk

Mosaic Canyon

Trailhead Ornament

Fall Canyon

Exploring 20 Mule Team Canyon

Real winter has come to Bend

Our house

Since mid December we have received well over 50 inches of snow here in Bend.  It has been cold, so most of it is still here.  We will be digging out until spring.  In the mean time, if I ignore the ice dams and other structural issues, it is beautiful and so peaceful.  I did move here for four seasons, right?

Wild Meadow Drive

A unique view of robins.  Drinking from the gutter since there is no open water available

Looking down the sidewalk

Frozen chain