*Update: I have been overwhelmed with the kind words from everyone about this post. Being freshly pressed has certainly brought a new audience to my blog, and I wanted to say a big thank you to everyone for stopping by. If interested, here’s a more complete gallery of some of my favorite images from Death Valley.
Death Valley is one of the most spectacular places on the planet. It is a vast and diverse landscape, one that ranges in altitude from the heights of Telescope Peak (11,043 ft)Ā in the Panamint Range, to the desolate and unique salt water flats at Badwater (282 feet below sea level). If you ever want to see a landscape that is like nothing you have ever seen, then DVNP is the place to go.Ā This is the last in my mini-series of reflective posts from when my buddy Steve and I visited the american southwest a few years ago – Steve hasĀ a cool video and narrative of our tripĀ posted on his blog, The Rabid Outdoorsman. Ignore his descriptions of my driving and the near-death experiences… all are highly exaggerated. We covered a crazy amount of ground on our trip, spending several days in Death Valley before driving north to escape the heat towardĀ ArchesĀ National Park,Ā CanyonlandsĀ National Park, andĀ Deadhorse State Park.
One of the things I like most about blogging is how chronologically recorded stories allow for a retrospective glimpse at a timeline. When examining site stats, I often find myself checking out an older blog post that someone has searched for and visited, and from there I start to wander along the timeline, reminiscing as I begin a mini-journey of moments from the past. Building this little four part series from the southwest transported me back to 2009 when Steve and I had a blast exploring what was some seriously big country.
We wrapped up our conference where the stifling sidewalk heat of the Vegas strip hadn’t even come close to preparing us for the fieriness of Death Valley. Only fools, crazy europeans, and two idiots from Maine would venture out into the vast expanses of Death Valley in the summer where the temperatures were 120+ degrees, but we figured what the hey… we might never get a chance to do this again. Risking heatstroke, we wrapped water-drenched towels around our heads and plowed on as we explored some of the amazing and surreal sights of the valley. The photographs in this post are from several of the more iconic locations in Death Valley… the Mesquite Dunes near Stovepipe Wells, the Badwater Salt Flats, the Racetrack, Zabriskie Point, and then back to the dunes… truly awe-inspiring.
Thanks for indulging me with my past four posts and mini-review of this memorable trip to the southwest from a few years back. Now, back to the present day… regardless of the weather, I am determined to get out with the camera again this weekend, so your regular programming from a cold and wintry Maine should resume soon š
This time of year I really enjoy seeing other places than the landscape of Maine in the Winter by February I am ready to see someplace warm :-). Thank you for reminding me that it isn’t cold all the time š
Thanks Harold. Though the way this winter has been going it won’t be long before we start seeing signs of spring! Oops, did I just jinx us?
Hot damn! Too bad I live in New York! That looks amazing.
Nothing wrong with living in NY š
Very nice! I have visited Death Valley a few times and have always been struck by the otherworldy landscape. Your pix portray it well.
Thanks. It is a unique, desolate, beautiful, and surreal landscape.
Love the dunes…you’ve captured such a great contrast with the shadows.
Thanks. It was amazing to be there with the light developing from the east sidelighting the dunes.
Incredibly beautiful photos.
Thanks Lisa. I appreciate the kind words.
All of these are beautiful. The desert is remarkably underrated for its “macrotextures”. You’ve done a nice job capturing that here. Though an amateur, I had a similar experience without risking nearly as much in the sand dunes in the Outer Banks.
Thanks, and I totally agree with your comment about the textures of the desert. DVNP truly is a spectacular place… big and small.
Thanks for the vacation thoughts and pics. The Valley of Death doesn’t look like my cup of tea, but Maine, however, might be š
Thanks. Death Valley and Maine are worlds apart in many ways, but both are indeed beautiful. Thanks for stopping by.
Wow! Just amazing. I’ve always wanted to go and see it. I’ve always imagined the still silence, the wind, the dry ground – probably a great place to meditate! Thanks for sharing these fantastic photos! Great blog!!
-Kristin
Kristin… thanks. DVNP is a unique and huge park, and trust me, as you travel around its vast landscape there is plenty of time to meditate!
These don’t even look real — more like paintings depicting some ethereal, magical place. Gorgeous!
Mikalee… it is indeed a surreal place!
One of my favorite places to photograph. But you don’t see much of it when living in Houston as a wedding photographer.
Absolutely one of my favorite places to photograph too… you’re a lot closer to there than I am!
What a beautiful way to die
Errrr… I assume you are referring to the heat?
I have not spent much time in deserts in my lifetime, but the other day I was listening to a Portuguese fado (song) about the desert, “Deserto” which brought the desert to life. But probably not as vibrantly as your photographs! I guess if you can capture the desert to that degree it’s worth the risk of heatstroke (?) Breathtaking photographs.
Thanks for the kind words. Glad you liked the photographs.
Amazing photos!
Mike… thanks. DVNP is one of those places where there are photographic opportunities all around.
David – I’ve not been there but must put it on the list of places to visit. Thanks for sharing your photos.
Mike… you are very welcome. Just make sure you don’t go when the temperature is 120+ degrees!
Good point!
Wow, beautifully stunning photos! Congrats on Freshly Pressed!
Jennifer… thanks. DVNP is one of my favorite places!
Thank you so much for sharing these beautiful photos. They’re great!
Connie
Thanks Connie.
Amazing photography.
Valley of death never looked better!
Thanks. Most of these are just the icons that are easy to get to… can you imagine the sights you see when you get off the beaten path?
Great shots…. We recently visited the Death valley too, its amazing how the landscape of California is vastly different throughout!
Thanks for stopping by. I couldn’t agree more about the diversity (and beauty) of the California landscape.
It has been a long time since I have been there… I now feel the urge to return. Thank you.
Me too š
Happy to have helped kick start your desire to return.
A photographer’s ability to capture beauty continues to amaze me. Thanks for sharing.
You are very welcome, and thanks for the compliment.
Hi David !
Very impressive shots !! I really like the texture of your shots !
John… thanks. Lot’s of detail to be found in the desert and especially within DVNP.
Upon seeing your photographs I know what I must “shoot” for to be Freshly Pressed.
I love your pictures.
(Work In Progress)
Thank you. Best wishes.
Amazing & beautiful pics. Congrats on being FP
Thanks… much appreciated.
Congratulations on being Freshly Pressed. I loved your photos and your post. I adore desert landscapes, although the one in which I live is totally different to this one. There is something so compelling about them, defiant and strong and simple. I haven’t yet scrolled back through your blog to see Maine, but both of these are places I dream about. Thanks so much for the vicarious travel!
Thank You! I agree that the desert can be a unique and inspiring place. Though I am lucky to live near Acadia National Park here in Maine, I am also drawn to the desert southwest of the US, and love to bring my camera long for the ride.
My grandma lived in Death Valley throughout my childhood, so I spent a lot of summers there growing up. It’s a pretty amazing place.
Wow… I can only imagine what it must be like to live in Death Valley all year round. I have been fortunate enough to visit there several times, and I admit to having a special affinity for the place.
Wow, beautiful photos. Death Valley has been on my ‘must see’ list since moving to the States 11 months ago, and these pics just confirm it. You have a great eye, and capture the essence and beauty of each place you photograph. I particularly like the image with the rock, and the drag marks. I enjoy the narratives it suggests.
Thanks Clare! Good luck in planning your visit to Death Valley… those moving rocks are pretty cool, aren’t they?
… and I thought it was the aliens. Bahahaha
There are lots of theories about how they move… some scientific and some not so scientific… I like the Alien theory too! One thing is for sure… the silence out there is unnerving, and I wouldn’t recommend going alone!
Really? Wow, they seriously move all by themselves! I thought you were joking … hence the aliens comment. How incredibly interesting! Another reason to go …
As for the silence, after half an hour with my 13 year old son, that sounds blissful (jokes). Actually. ! don’t imagine it would be very smart to go on your own to a place like that.
Here’s a pretty decent (and plausible) explanation of how they move: http://www.nasa.gov/topics/earth/features/roving-rocks.html
That is so cool! Thanks for the link. Fascinating.
This is fascinating! Great photographs David!
Awesome photos. I’ve never been anywhere near Death Valley, and probably never will, but your images bring home to me how many places on this planet are still incredibly beautiful and how small we humans are by comparison.
Thanks. There is definitely something special about finding places where you can be the only person for miles.
Stunning photos, David! I’ve never been to Death Valley (the name slightly frightens me…), but, after seeing your pictures, I’m convinced it’s a place I need to visit! š
Congrats on being Freshly Pressed!
Thanks! It is a strange and wonderful place… well worth a visit!
Going out this week-end, regardless of the weather?!? Thanks for sharing these great pics!! Were some of these near sunrise or sunset?
Carol… looks like a little snow on Saturday, but Sunday might be nice (but cold). I have been feeling the effects of cabin fever lately, so am determined to get out again with the camera this weekend!
Other than the Racetrack photo which was made in the mid-afternoon, the rest of the pics in this post were made around either sunrise or sunset… the light is usually more interesting at those times.
I will be cheering you on Sunday when it is 15 degrees and blowing that snow around at 30 mph!! Agree, the light is always better during the “magic hours” around sunrise and sunset! I was out on the Ocean Trail today and along “Great Head” area – just beautiful. Even had a picnic lunch tucked down behind a big rock and out of the wind!
I love the Great Head trail… one of my favorite Acadia hikes. I looked at the weather forecast for Sunday morning and it seems like the storm might be clearing right at sunrise. Will be cold, but worth it if the light is nice.
Enjoy!! I look forward to your pics, sunrise snow would be gorgeous!
Wow, these are some beautiful landscape shots! I need to get me into some landscape photography. I’ve been dealing with city scene for far too long
You can’t get much further from the “city” when in Death Valley!
I absolutely must go. Thank you for sharing your journey and the beautiful landscape.
Candice… thanks. DVNP is highly recommended!
Great photos. Would love to visit those places too. And yes I am crazy European š
Thanks. I meant that in an endearing way… I grew up in Ireland, so I appreciate the fascination that western europeans have with warm weather and sunshine! Awesome blog by the way… love your work!
Thank you. I am glad you like it!
You’re welcome… thanks for sharing.
Hey death valley is an incredible place and so it isn’t hard to take a beautiful picture when you are there. I have seen this landscape life and I must say you captured it in a great way. Loving the second photo the most!
Agreed that Death Valley is a photographer’s paradise š
BEAUTIFUL photos! I am a WordPress photographer, and you have inspired me. Great job.
Thank you for the compliment… much appreciated!
Thanks for posting these, they are great. Looking at them makes me really want to get up and go somewhere for a few days. I really need an escape. This seems like a perfect way to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Jeff… I hear you on the need for an escape, especially from here in Maine in the dead of winter! When I need to “get away” but can’t physically make it happen, I usually go back and enjoy previous expeditions via my photographs. Thanks for stopping by.
Beautiful photographs! Congratulations on being Pressed!
Thank You very much!
WOW is all I can muster up. Just fantastic. thank you for posting these pics. They’re incredible
val
Thanks for the “wow” š
Amazing photos! There’s harsh beauty and strength in the desert. I learned that when we were living in the Atacama desert in northern ChilĆ©.
“There’s a harsh beauty and strength in the desert”
Couldn’t agree more. Thanks for stopping by.
Great shots, thank you for sharing š
My pleasure, and thank you for the compliment.
aaaah this is weird… I am in the middle of writing several posts about a trip I took to the west a few years back and one of the places I cover is Death Valley (along with Red Rock Canyon)! The other places I will be covering are Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon, Coral Sand Dune State Park, and Grand Staircase-Escalante. Would love to go back to Death Valley. Great pictures!
I will look forward to reading about your adventures š
Really wonder work, David. I have to get out to Death Valley one of these years. FWIW, my understanding is, that while it may be insane to be there in the summer, you pretty much have the place to yourself. Of course point A may imply point B… š
Again, marvelous imagery.
Thanks Kerry. You might be surprised by the number of mad dogs and englishmen who go out in the midday and summer sun in Death Valley.
Your photos are gorgeous. Thank you for sharing them!
Thank you very much.
One of the best things about WP is that I get to see blogs like this that I probably wouldn’t find on my own. Beautiful photos. Makes me want to go out west and see it myself. (I’m another New Englander, although here in western MA we haven’t had a true winter yet and I wonder if we will.)
Sarah… isn’t WordPress cool that way! No snow so far in the Berkshires then? There’s still time for winter to get here, but it sure has taken its time to get here this year.
Geogeous as usual, David! I love the angle in your photos, and the last one in this post is stunning. Congrats on being Freshly Pressed!
Belen… thanks. I fell in love with Death Valley and would love to go back some day.
That’s some superb place and great photos! I love deserts – just about my favourite landscape. I don’t mind the heat either, so long as it’s dry heat – can’t stand humid heat! But then I’m one of those ‘mad Europeans’ from a very cold and damp country…
Carol.
Thanks Carol. It was so hot I literally couldn’t stand up from behind the camera without getting a headache. Being from one of those cold and damp countries myself, I persevered and enjoyed the strange experience.
Amazing landscape and beautiful photography!
It is an amazing place, and thank you š
Great photos. The desert is a brutal, harsh, beautiful environment.
Thanks Tim… there’s nothing like the Death Valley desert.
I’ve always wanted to go there, but have not made it yet. I now put it on my bucket list.
You will not be disappointed. Good luck!
My hiking and tent camping buddy of 43 years and I will begin such an excursion to the Southwest in 9 days. The itinerary has been meticulously drafted, and the piles of camping equipment have begun to accumulate. Nice post and certainly some beautiful photographs of an awesome place.
Now that does sound like fun! Have a great trip, and thanks for the comment.
Amazing photos. You’re a very talented photographer.
Thanks so much!
The colors in all of your photos are simply incredible! I’ve wanted to visit Death Valley for a long time, and you, sir, are inspiring me š
Cheers
Glad you liked my photographs! I appreciate you taking the time to visit and comment.
lovely photographs! Got to ask – did you do the trip through the rocky mountain school of photography? I know there is one that takes you through vegas and out into death valley..
Thanks. I did not visit with a workshop group. I had been attending a work-related conference in Vegas right before this and decided to spend an extra couple of days exploring the park. Glad I did… it is spectacular.
oh, okay! sweet, I’m glad you did too š
Those are awesome photos. Being from Maine, have you ever had the chance to go north east in New Brunswick and the rest of the Maritimes? That is one our favorite places to visit.
Thanks. It’s funny you should mention that… as soon as things green up this spring I plan on heading up that way. I have started doing some research about where to go, but if you have any good suggestions I’d be all ears!
Kouchibouguac National Park is very cool. Most people head to Bay of Fundy (which is also incredibly beautiful) then turn around. Kouchibouguac is more local and offers a lot of neat things to do. PEI is also one of our favorite places. I think I have a post on Kouchibouguac and maybe PEI on my blog. Not nearly as good a photographer as you though…
Thanks SO much for the suggestions. I will definitely check out your blog… I’m excited about getting to see that part of the world.
Amazing pictures!
Thank you.
Wow! Simply amazing pictures and great article!! Really made me think about making the journey am working on pass through there!!
Thanks Ben.
Thanks for these wonderful pictures, I would love to visit now, before it was a ‘ scary’ place in my mind, now it’s a beautiful one!
Scary? No… but definitely beautiful.
Oh, congrats David, you appear to have been freshly pressed! Well deserved for your amazing photography.
I have spent time in Nevada (Red Rocks climbing trip) and now regret not making the trip to the Valley of Death – absolutely stunning images you have presented.
Thanks Karen… Death Valley is well worth a trip sometime.
The Scenery Is Vast And Stunning But I Couldn’t Hang Out There long With All That Sun. It Would Probably Melt My Brain.
Besides Isn’t “The Undertaker” From there? -,o
In the summer it gets so hot people will actually crack an egg on the concrete of a parking lot to see if it will cook!
OMG, Thats blazing weather! I could use a little of that to shed a few pounds but then there’s that sun illumination that just eggs me -,o
Seriously extreme conditions for sure, but that’s what makes it such a wild and special place too!
I wonder what kind of animals live out there then. Must Be The Usual Lizards And snakes Huh?
From the NPS web site: “Death Valley’s great range of elevations and habitats support a variety of wildlife species, including 51 species of native mammals, 307 species of birds, 36 species of reptiles, three species of amphibians, and five species and one subspecies of native fishes. Small mammals are more numerous than large mammals, such as desert bighorn, coyote, bobcat, mountain lion, and mule deer.”
Having said that, I haven’t seen any of these other than a few old wild horses and a jackrabbit with the biggest ears I have ever seen.
Wow, i don’t blame them for remaining illusive. With that kind of heat i don’t know how anything could survive out there but i have always been a fan of that desert big horn though. You couldn’t catch the jack rabbit though? I would have tried if it had the biggest ears I’ve ever seen -,o
Beautiful pictures! There is something surreal about the desert.
DVNP has such a variety of landscapes… many of which could be considered surreal. Thanks for the kind words.
These photos are amazing! I love the soft colors!
Nice!
Thanks… the color palette in the desert can be quite soft and beautiful.
Wow! Looks like it was quite an adventure!
Once I get back from the remote Pacific islands this coming summer, I’m hoping to have some pictures to share, as well! Be sure to check my blog in the future!
Thanks for sharing this! Landscape photography is one of my favorites.
I will definitely check out your blog. Thanks for stopping by.
Excellent post.
Amazing pictures.
120 degrees is friggin HOT!
Thanks. And yes… 120 degrees is VERY hot!
Nice pictures. They do show an eerie and yet wonderful land.
Thanks. Unique, surreal, eerie… and then try being out there at night time!
I had a lot of memories there with my bunch of friends, it so beautiful.
It is indeed a beautiful place… thanks for sharing š
The last one is my favorite! Beautiful shots! š
Thank you Marie. The Mesquite Dunes where that was made are pretty special.
I would love to visit there someday!
Hopefully you will get a chance to visit someday š
Great Photos!
Thanks Jesse!
it’s really a spectacular place, there are many strange things
It is indeed… but gorgeous too.
Hi David. this post . i like it so much. when i saw these photos, i was think that in real I am present there. there is too much reality in the pictures. really these are so deep.
Thanks for the nice comment.
Your pictures are beautiful! I lived in Southern California for the better of my life, but yet to visit there. When I return to the US, I’ll make I visit!
Definitely worth a visit š
Great lighting in your photos. Really enjoyed them.
Jimmy
Thanks Jimmy. Glad you liked the photographs.
Remarkable photos! . . . Reminds me a bit of Qatar. Not the scorched earth, though! š
Michele… there is more than one field of dunes in DVNP. These were the Mesquite Dunes near Stovepipe Wells. I have never seen Qatar… it must be a unique landscape.
It all sounds intriguing, David! I drove through a portion of Death Valley as a child with my family, but have never had the opportunity to explore to the extent you have! Yes, Qatar has some wonderful dunes, an inland sea, and a long coastline adjacent to the Arabian Gulf. Keep enjoying your adventures!
Michele… Qatar does sound like an interesting place. Maybe I’ll get there in 2022 for the World Cup!
nice pictures
Thanks!
Fantastic scenery. I’ve always wanted to visit the United States and see among other things Death Valley.
Lot’s to see for sure… DVNP alone could keep you busy for a lifetime!
Such an amazing place to visit. Thanks for sharing them to us.
Joseph… you are very welcome š
Waw!
Oh how beautiful!
congratulation !!!
Much appreciated!
Nice….
Thank you…
Gorgeous photos almost unreal breathetaking. Congratulations.
I appreciate the kind words š
this is insane; did you actually go there and take these pictures!!!!! woooah š®
Definitely a place you need to see to believe.
great pics!!!
Thanks for stopping by and for leaving the kind words.
Death Valley is, along with perhaps Yosemite national Park, one of the places that should really get more attention, especially outside the US, as a traveler’s destination. So many of the people visiting the US just go to New York or Vegas, or (don’t get me started) Orlando.
Death Valley clearly has a lot to offer, as your pretty photos show.
I totally agree. Death Valley is such a huge place though, I think it could handle an increase in tourist traffic better than Yosemite. I have seen Yosemite Valley in the summer, and it get’s pretty busy!
Amazing pictures! Wish I could see this place one day! Thanks for the share š
Thanks. Here’s hoping you do get to see it someday š
Mmm…that last photo is especially gorgeous. I’ve always wanted to go to Death Valley – ever since I was a kid memorizing random facts about the US š What an enticing landscape. I went on a roadtrip through the southwest too, but my companions were a bit less interested in that region after having started out along the Oregon coast and majestic northern California. Those places are DEFINITELY great, but I wish that we’d had weeks and months to explore the nooks and crannies of the Valley and Arches and everywhere else. But, I’m lucky I have you to bring it to me and my kitchen! Thanks for sharing, and congrats on the pressing!
http://www.spokesandpetals.wordpress.com
Jenny… thanks. There is so much to see in Death Valley, and such a variety of terrain. Maybe one day you’ll get back there?
I certainly hope so!
Good luck… am sure you will enjoy the place if you get to go back.
I got to your spectacular pictures of Death Valley from Freshly Pressed and it reminds me that I am one of the few people that think of Death Valley as cold and wet rather than hot and dry.
My late wife and I went to Death Valley as part of a vacation in December 1992. That year must have been one of those El Nino years, weather-wise. On December 12th, Death Valley got its entire annual allotment of rain ā 2 inches. The rain flooded the roads, took out the power and the telephones. We were staying at the Furnace Creek Inn and were served dinner that evening by candlelight. The inn had propane tanks to fire the stoves. It was rather romantic, which, as a curmudgeon, I should not admit.
The next morning, looking across to the Panamint Mountains, there was a straight white line as if drawn on the mountains at the snow line. When the waters subsided from the roads and we were able to go out, all the vegetation started to bloom along the riverbeds and in the hills. It was quite picturesque and unusual to see such plant life in the Valley of Death. But it never got above fifty five degrees!
Thanks for sharing your experiences. On this particular trip I got to “enjoy” the infamous Death Valley heat, but I also learned that summer isn’t the smartest time to visit the park. I have since been back, and I decided to go this time in March… much more tolerable weather, and on this second visit I too was treated to un-real conditions. The winter rains had flooded many parts of the valley, and spring flowers were popping up everywhere. Wild place indeed!
I think of Death Valley as brutal (anything over 70 F starts to get uncomfortable for me), but you’ve shown it to be of gorgeous color and sensual line. Lovely shots.
Thank or the comment and I’m glad you liked the photographs. Throughout the winter months the temperatures can actually get down below freezing, especially at night. There is also considerable a range in altitude throughout the park, so at that time of year I would be surprised not to see snow on the higher peaks.
Incredible. Did you take these photos yourself?
I did. Hmmm… strange question.
Not so strange. Was wondering if you sell these. If I didn’t live on a boat I would definitely hand them on my walls. Amazing stuff.
Thanks. Didn’t mean to be snippy. I imagine you might have a hard time keeping frames straight when living on a boat š
To say the least! But I love it. However, looking at your photos makes me consider moving into a house just so I could have walls to hang beautiful things on. Really impressive work.
Thanks. I really do appreciate the kind words.
You reminded me just how beautiful this place is. Would love to visit it again sometime.
Thanks… it is an amazing place, isn’t it? I hope you get to visit again.
Dead but beautiful!
Far from dead actually, there is so much life to be found in this landscape. Quite a spectacular place.
Looks like an amazing place. Not easy to be there but still…so beautiful. My favorite picture would be the last one with the dunes.
It is an amazing place Niki. I loved my time spent in the dunes… so many possibilities for photography!
I agree. I love the the desert, the colours, the textures, the stillness…..all of it. I’ve been to Arches and Dead Horse Point, but never here. Something to add to my bucket list!
Death Valley isn’t as compact as Arches or Deadhorse State Park… in fact, I believe that it might be the largest of the national parks in the contiguous US. Huge place.
Oh My God, is all I can say. Congratulation on being FP’d. (That last photo is simply stunning.)
Thank you! I kinda like that last one too š
that is great post!! I have not be opportune to visit places like this but with your well written and composed post, it seems I was there with you. thank you and happy valentine celebration.
Happy Valentine’s Day to you too!
i just looked at this post again and again! especially the wonderful pictures you have there. great…
Thanks. I appreciate your kind words about the photographs.
Your last two photographs in this post are stunning. Nice composition and use of light. I am particularly fond of photographing dunes- nice capture!
Luke… thanks. There are a couple of areas of dunes in and around Death Valley… definitely a photographer’s paradise!
Amazing pictures:)
Thank you š
Beautiful shots. Agree, that last shot is wonderful. š
Thanks Becky. I was especially drawn to the lines and textures in that last dune shot.
Stunning shots, I’ve wanted to visit Death Valley fro so long, now even more so!
Kieran… thanks. You would have a ball in Death Valley with your camera. So much to see and do.
amazing photos!
Merci beaucoup!
I was also in Death Valley ā¦..Can assure you that it was very very HOT there ā¦.But itās something you will NEVER forget ā¦ā¦.
Mark .
Mark… agreed on it being something that you never forget.
amazing post with some stunning photos. I’d love to roam around that desert with my camera…
Thanks… it is a very big place, but one that seems to have been created just for photographers!
Great photos! I’ve never been to Death Valley but I have been to Arches and Canyonlands. The American Southwest is stunningly beautiful. I will be back someday…
Death Valley is pretty unique in that it encompasses such a variety of terrain. Well worth a visit!
amazing
Appreciated!
Beautiful desolation š
Agreed… it is an almost haunting place where you can very easily find yourself some quiet time.
Incredible!-the scenery and the photography. Absolutely incredible!
Kudos!
Alan… thank you. A wonderful place for sure!
Thank you, David.
Rarely do photographs actually beckon one as yours do. You have a rare gift, and gave me a unique and much appreciated respite on this cold winter day in Vermont.
Thanks again Alan. As I look out the window, the snow is just started to stick as I write this. The plan had been to head down to Acadia in the early morning to see if I could take advantage of the clearing storm, but methinks the forecasted 12F (-11C) dawn temperatures are making me have second thoughts!
Death Valley is on my list of places to ride my bike, sleep, dream, and commune.
You will not be disappointed in what you find there – just remember that is is a BIG place!
Really nice pictures! It is as i remember it.
Glad to take you back there…
Nice pics. Never been up to maine, but i bet its beautiful in such a different way.
Thanks. Maine is certainly very different from Death Valley! It is snowing as I type this…
Fantastic pictures! I love the desert.
Thanks.. it is a pretty amazing place, eh?
I often tell my students that it is hard to appreciate the vastness of this country from our northeastern perspective. A visit to Death Valley, Sedona Arizona and other points west can be humbling!
I couldn’t agree more. New York to Boston seems like a long way here in the northeast, but when you get out into the wild west… now that’s some serious big country!
No wonder this was Freshly Pressed! These photos are breath taking! Nice work!
Thanks for the complimentary words… much appreciated!
Great photography dude! Inspiring! Keep up the cool posts!
Peace š
Ben… thanks!
Congrats on being Freshly Pressed! What a pleasant surprise to check out WP’s front page and boom! There you are. Nice work, friend!
Dena… thanks. It was quite a surprise š
nice pictures
namitalad… thanks.
Wow! Beautiful photographs. Wasn’t so idiotic after all. Inspiring rather.
Thanks Mo.
Awesome pics, thnx! I’ve been to Death Valley last year and I miss the desert…
I miss it too… it has that effect on you.
beautiful pics….
sheokhanda… thank you for the kind words!
Breathtaking images! I hope someday I’ll be able to see this place in person. š
Sofia… thank you for stopping by and commenting. Much appreciated š
very nice photographs and thanks for sharing this.
Chaks… thanks.
Gorgeous photos.
smileypic… thank you very much.
: )
Such great scenes are there-BUT, in the late 1950s I aerial seeded so many 100s of millions of flowers for the US Department of the Interior that Ronald Reagan said to me that I had ruined the valley for his television series “Death Valley Days”. Did not help that there were high-speed car events being run in the middle of the salt flats.
Wow… definitely a different time… thanks for sharing.
Needless to say…congrats on being freshly pressed! Great post. Loved the photos. The lines in the sand dunes really draw the eye…..well done.
Anita… thanks. The dunes are an amazing place, especially for anyone interested in photography. Lots of shapes and textures to discover.
beautiful captures…i love the clarity.
Thanks. The desert air can do wonders š
Beautiful, just beautiful.
Jeff… thanks for the kind words.
Fascinating!
It is a wild and fascinating place!
WOW, what gorgeous photos!!
Thank you Charlotte!
Beautiful.
Hamilton… thanks.
Nice shots. I just spent a week in DV in January. Definitely a unique place. I consider myself a decent photographer but your shots definitely outdid mine. I especially love the last shot in this post (the dunes).
Kevin… thanks for stopping by and for the kind words. January must be a pretty good time to visit the park? I’m wondering how cold it gets that time of year? Loved your photographs of Yellowstone š
DV was typically 70 degrees during the day, 40 degrees at night. Great weather for camping. February would probably be perfect, temperature-wise.
Thanks for the compliment. But Yellowstone? That one’s not posted yet. Hmmm.
February does sound like the perfect time to visit. Sorry if I made a mistake… thought this was your web site: http://www.kevinmeyersphotography.com/places
Ahhh… yes, it is. I was confused because I was in the middle of drafting a post on a visit to Yellowstone and thought I had hit “publish” too soon. Published now though.
You’ve got some great shots – I checked out more of your posts. Keep up the good work
Kevin… awesome work. For anyone interested in seeing spectacular Alaska, visit Kevin’s blog here: http://adventuresinkevinworld.wordpress.com/
Wow! Lovely.
Karen… thanks for stopping by š
Love the composition in these photos.
Thanks. I appreciate your stopping by and commenting.
Great pix! An otherwordly place, isn’t it?
It sure is… so diverse and expansive… fell in love with the place first time I saw it!
Beautiful photos!
Thank you Valerie.
Inspiring! š
Thanks Jan.
Beautiful. Just beautiful!
Lirpa… Thank you.
I love your pictures. I drove through DV a few years ago and was instantly in love with it. It was 120 degrees and we enjoyed every second. the dunes & artists palette may just be the two most beautiful places i have ever see, and I’ve been to Yellowstone.
I felt exactly the same way about Death Valley when I first saw it. Haven’t been to Yellowstone yet… perhaps I should start thinking about making that trip.
It is epic in Yellowstone. You becoming humbled driving through that place.
Yeah… I’ve heard that Yellowstone is one of those magical and unforgettable places that once seen, you never forget.
Good Afternoon: I spent a weekend in Death Valley during March 2000 in the middle of a cold snap; the highs were “only” 97 degrees on each day. But the desert flowers were in bloom and that place was shockingly beautiful. Good job with the photographs.
Shockingly beautiful… what a great way to describe Death Valley. Thanks for the comment.
Beautiful photographs! I’d like to go to visit briefly – not sure if I can handle the heat!
Ryan… the heat is what makes this place so special š
Did you go near a town called Trona? I am from that town which is about an hour from Death Valley. It’s nice to see some recognizing the beauty of this place. š
I did drive through Trona… awesome place. I wanted to see the Trona Pinnacles, and I can remember driving like a mad man along a dirt road to try and get there before dark. Here’s the story of my adventure there: https://storiesfromhome.wordpress.com/2009/03/24/longest-day/
What beautiful shots! I especially like the second one, and the last looks like a Dali painting. Wonderful work!
choconutmeg… Thank you very much š
Hello David! What a lot of well deserved comments! Here is another one from tiny Denmark:
What a magnificent natural area – and so fantastic photos! The last photo is absolutely amazing – simply a super award winner!
truels… Denmark, eh? Thanks so much for taking the time to comment and for the compliment.
You really captured it well. I have been there. White Sands, NM is also an interesting place to see. Fantastic photos! Wow. Keep up the blogging. Sharing is wonderful.
I haven’t been to White Sands, but have heard it is beautiful.
Amazing photos thanks for sharing! It makes me want to drag my family out there and check it out, but I think we will skip the whole summer time visit and go more in the fall or late spring…
There is no wrong time to visit Death Valley, but I hear that March-April is an especially good time š
really beautiful pictures! wondrous!
Thank you Jill.
Absolutely blown away! Amazing photos š
Jayde… thank you!
These photos are amazing! and also a good little read š Thanks for sharing your adventures.
Mike… thanks for the kind words.
Nevada was HOT! I just never had the time to make it over to Death Valley. And Vegas was plenty hot already.
š
Thanks for the photos!
Thanks. That part of the world can get crazy hot in the summer!
You should try to live there a month in the spring time ….
The people become crazy from surviving the previous summer …. imho, of couse.
Glorious photographs.. such good light and great perspectives.
Thanks! You know what they say about it being all about the light!
Amazing photos thanks for sharing…………….
You are very welcome… thanks for the comment.
I think we will skip the whole summer time visit and go more in the fall or late springā¦
Good idea, though there is something bizarre and intriguing about the Death Valley summer heat.
Breathtaking!
Thanks Barry!
Oh! look at those awesome photos!
Thanks for stopping by and the kind comment.
Wow such amazing beauty…Thanks for posting these!
Thank you, and you are welcome š
Beautiful photos, congrats on FP’d!
Thanks… being freshly pressed has meant that I have received lots of nice comments like yours š
David, it is really hard to find adequate words to describe the beauty of these scenes you have captured. I love the composition; somehow it seems like these pictures would be more stunning than seeing the landscape in real life. My husband and I are traveling to the Grand Canyon area next month and this whets my appetite! But most important, congratulations on being Freshly Pressed! How exciting and well deserved. I am so glad that so many other people could see your amazing photography talents. (I receive my posts in a weekly digest, so I missed all the activity last week, but looks like you were quite busy with all these comments!!!)
Thanks Robin… these past few days have certainly been busy on the blog. So many people took the time to leave a comment, and I wanted to thank them for doing that. I am jealous of your upcoming trip to the Grand Canyon area… that’s somewhere I have yet to see – have yourself a great trip! I always appreciate your kind words š
I could go for a little Death Valley Heat right now…at least it’s dry heat! Beautiful place though…maybe I’ll visit some day š
I hear you Andrew… any kind of heat would be welcome right now with the temperature outside here in Maine sitting at a balmy -11C!
Breathtaking! It’s my first time to see this kind of landscape. Thank you for the pictures. I always had the idea in my mind of death valley in black and white and sepia with dark drama mood. How fascinating to find a different perspective from your takes. š
Thanks. It’s all about the light at the edges of the day š
That’s beautiful David, “the light at the edges of the day” …no need to reply to this! š
Karen… no worries. What’s another comment or two hundred š
I didn’t come up with that phrase… I can’t remember where I heard it, but it stuck with me as really expressively describing those early and late times when the light is often at its best.
Yes it’s perfect. It will stick with me too.
and me also…it’s a great phrase !
Miss living out in the desert areas!
I love the northeast, but part of me would love to live in the southwestern US… striking landscapes.
Incredible amounts of diversity in the landscapes in such a small area of the US
I really enjoyed your pictures š Thanks for sharing them. They are very cool š
Thanks Charlie… glad you liked my photographs!
the place looks just amazing! brilliant pics
It is amazing… and thanks for the kind words š
Thanks for sharing these beautiful photos! I’ve never been to Death Valley but I am now intrigued and hope to see if for myself. I got the chance to visit Arches National Park last weekend and Monument Valley though – gorgeous!
Here’s hoping you get to see Death Valley. I loved Arches but I have not seen Monument Valley yet… definitely on my list of places to see though.
Wow, so that’s what I missed. Beautiful shots… I was in the area last year and found the Valley of Fire. Valley of Death was missed. Thanks for these!
Gilberto… sorry you missed Death Valley, but from what I have heard, Valley of Fire is a must-see place. Hope you got some great photographs!
Ya I did, search Valley of Fire on my blog… pics and video
wow! those are unreal.. great photos! congrats on being freshly pressed!
Thanks LadyT. I appreciate the kind words.
extraterrestrial.. and so beautifully captured!
Thank you… and you know there are rumors from out that way about strange things having been seen š
Some great shots and some nice writing, Dave. I might come back to you some time to seek permission to use a photo or two in my own blog.
Cheers!
Thanks John.
Nice work. Glad you didn’t get heat stroke. Your last photo here reminds me of when I lived in Palm Springs. The thing I liked the best about it was looking out across the horizon in the afternoon and watching the play of shadows across the hills. It was a never repeating kaleidoscope of gold and purple motion. I’m thinking this one was taken in the morning (?) because it’s gold and blue.
Or maybe Palm Springs nearer distances are the reason for the purple instead of blue.
congrats on being FP’d š
Thank you. The last dune photograph was indeed made in the morning.
Wow! Beautiful!
Courtney Mara
Thanks Courtney… much appreciated.
Nice try buddy but I know Mars when I see her….oops! Sorry….I mean “I didn’t see nuthin’ and I didn’t talk to no one…human…as far as I know…” but really….how can you have a “Death Valley” pictorial without dead things being prominent…you know…the cattle skulls…prehistoric monster bones etc….I’m disappointed but willing to give you a chance to reveal your true identity in the interest of National Security…after all….a lot of money was secretly spent getting men to Mars who wouldn’t tattle…once the Marians learned that those hypothetical visitors played chess and actually had a board with them the Martians werer keen to learn everything about making rain….which they expect soon due to our mutual planetary enrichment program….surprisingly…they are so good at chess that enen Deep Blue threathened suicide is asked to play with them again…who knew computers had feelings?
Thanks. š
Marvelous work, sir! Particularly seen in the expanded gallery’s selection. Made my afternoon with its vibrancy.
Chris… thank you. I am very glad you liked my photographs.
Wow. Your blog has spanned the places of my life (except Ireland); from Maine to the West, and around. Like a Nomadic Mainiac. I miss Maine of long ago, more than I thought, because your photos (especially Acadia NP) made my heart sore. They impart a sense of place. And you captured the magnificence of the canyonlands, the places that stole me away from Maine so many decades ago.
Wonderful. Thank you.
Thank you so much for the thoughtful post… very much appreciated.
beautiful, and wonderful photos!
Jinjersam…. thank you!
Great Photos; especially of the dunes! I was in Death Valley a couple of years back too… and it was indeed a unique experience. But, we decided to take an unusual route back, and visited a truly remarkable town on the way: I had blogged about it then; you might want to read when you have the time :-). Strangely, my post almost two years back had the same title as yours, and that’s how your post seemed familiar š :
http://sushilsub.wordpress.com/2010/05/13/the-valley-of-death/
Great post on your blog… thanks for sharing. I’ve been to Trona too… an interesting place for sure. Death Valley and the surrounding area has the effect of drawing people back.
Fantastic scenery. I’ve always wanted to visit the United States and see among other things Death Valley. Great post. Loved the photos. The lines in the sand dunes really draw the eyeā¦..well done…
Superb job…
Thanks for stopping by and for the compliment… much appreciated!
That photo of the rock, is it the place where the rocks seem to move by themselves.?
It is the same place…. known as The Racetrack. Relatively hard to get to, there usually aren’t many people there. It is a strange and eerie place.
very impressive shots.i really like it.
Much appreciated š
Congratulations, you’re blog is really awesome!:) Greets:)
Thank you for the compliment about the blog š
Desert type land is amazing, it’s more beautiful than people give it credit. These pictures are amazing
Your photos are really amazing, would love to see more! (:
Thanks. Check out the galleries: https://storiesfromhome.wordpress.com/galleries/
These are lovely. I love the cracks in the ground.
These shots make me definitely want to visit one day! Beautiful work!
Thanks… hope you get there to see it for yourself š
Stunning! Been to Vegas a number of times and never thought to venture out there, maybe next time I’ll convince someone to make the trek with me (even if it’s not long).
Your photos look like they’re scenes right out of a movie! š
Thanks Rose. It’s only a couple of hours from Vegas to Death Valley. You should make the trek next time you visit.
You are an amazing Photographer David.. Love all your shots.. Just spectacular š
~ Jill
Jill… thanks so much! I appreciate the kind words, even though my wife might have put you up to it š
Hi, nice pictures. You should have passed time for making those. I have passed through the Death Valley during a round trip and I should say it is one of the most fabulous place… with silence and chipmunks!
Thanks. It is indeed a fabulous place, though you might be surprised at how much life there is in Death Valley!
Yes! It is incredible how life can survive to those conditions. In fact, among them, I was quite surprised about the number of ‘mechanical species’!
Nice Post David and great photography. I’ve got to see this place sometime.
David… thanks. It is a vast place that has a variety of things to see. Very impressive.
Wow…..Simply great photography!!!
Thank you!
I just stumbled across your post on Death Valley, quite by accident! This is one of our all time favorite destinations. My husband and I have eaten at least 20 Thanksgivings dinners at the Texas Springs campground. People always ask us why on earth we drive there year after year. If anyone is on the fence about heading out there, your beautiful pictures and narrative should sway them. We have explored, relaxed, hiked, and driven and still not seen it all. We have taken people with us and gone alone. Most everyone loves it. I could go on and on but will refrain. Thanks for sharing your experiences. I am not the photographer that you are but I do have a few pictures posted on my blog from our most recent trip last November. Again, thanks.
Thanks… it is a special place isn’t it? I’ve been there on more than one occasion now, and I keep getting drawn back to what is an extreme, vast, and desolate landscape. There’s something VERY special about this place, and I can see why so many people feel the intrigue and need to visit. Thanks for stopping by and sharing.