Xanterra Stovepipe Wells Village

Death Valley, the very name conjures images of cattle skeletons, prickly cactuses and a sea of sand. Well, it can be that I'm sure but it is a heck of a lot more!! Whether you are into Hiking, Backpacking, Off Road Driving, Bird Watching, Photography (like me) or History, this is certainly a place that is probably one of the most unique I have ever visited.

It is hot, dry, desolate, remote and... awe inspiring. This is the only place on the planet that I have been outdoors and have heard NOTHING. I mean not a single bird cheap, airplane, car, cell phone nothing. I was on a dry lake bed doing photography and experienced what the term "deafening silence" must be. It was a bit eerie.. no wind, no insect noise, just silence.. could be maddening if you were lost (que some scary music here with trill sound effect). muwhahahah

Now because I was a bit freaked out by myself, I decided to stay close to the sand dunes area (which is actually right down the road) from where I was staying, the Stove Pipe Wells Village. There is limited free WiFi, no phone (not even a cell phone signal) or TV in the rooms however there is a community room that has the WiFi and TV. As for food, there is a really nice restaurant, a great bar, brand new pool and a general store with gas station right across the street. It is kind of a sleepy little place but cozy if you have the right company. It is very clean, safe and affordable. DON'T forget to fill up your car there before you leave as running out of gas in Death Valley can literally kill you.

Come in the winter as the summer can be VERY hot (nearly up to 135 degrees at Bad Water (285 feet BELOW sea level) and bring a lot of water.

Have fun and bring tons of water.