But even in this unrelenting oven, there is a paradise. A lush, luxurious sanctuary known as The Oasis at Death Valley. Here, two spring-fed swimming pools shimmer like a mirage. Soft shade pools beneath towering date palms. And an Ice Cream Parlor offers frosty delights just begging to melt against the unforgiving heat of the desert.

It’s a contrast like no other. Extreme heat and tranquil luxury, side by side. But what makes Death Valley so hot, and why is The Oasis the ultimate refuge from its fiery grip? Here’s what you need to know.

Understanding Death Valley’s Heat

Death Valley didn’t earn its ominous name for no reason. It is, after all, one of the hottest places on Earth.

Geography of an Oven

Death Valley’s location is the main culprit behind its legendary heat. At 282 feet below sea level, it lies in a basin surrounded by steep mountains, creating a perfect “heat trap.” Hot air sinks into the valley and is trapped by the surrounding ranges, while the dry, barren ground quickly absorbs the sun’s rays and radiates heat back into the air. It’s a relentless cycle of baking and broiling.

Adding to this, the desert has virtually no moisture. Water vapor in the air can moderate temperature swings, but in Death Valley’s bone-dry climate, there’s none of that. This allows the sun’s energy to heat the air directly and more intensely.

Record-Breaking Temperatures

Death Valley holds the record for the highest temperature ever recorded on Earth: a staggering 134°F (56.7°C) at Furnace Creek in 1913. To this day, temperatures regularly soar above 120°F during summer months, making shade, hydration, and creative cooling absolutely essential for visitors.

Despite its hostile climate, Death Valley draws adventurers, nature lovers, and photographers eager to experience its dramatic landscapes. But survival here isn’t just about bravery. It’s about balance. And that’s where The Oasis at Death Valley takes center stage.

The Oasis at Death Valley: A Cool Escape

Amidst the oppressive heat of Death Valley, The Oasis at Death Valley is precisely that — a lush, refreshing retreat where luxury meets the wild. It’s as though someone peeled back the sun’s fierce grip and carved out a haven of shade, water, and leisure.

Amenities That Redefine Desert Luxury

At the heart of The Oasis are two gleaming, spring-fed pools. These pools aren’t just about cooling off; they’re an experience. Imagine slipping into naturally heated, mineral-rich waters under the shade of towering date palms. Whether you’re taking a dip to escape the desert sun or floating peacefully under the stars, these pools epitomize tranquility.
And when those triple-digit daytime temperatures leave you craving a sweet reprieve? Head to the Ice Cream Parlor, where creamy, frosty confections melt the edge off the fiery heat outside.

Winding through the property, date palms provide both respite and beauty, their gently swaying fronds dappling sunlight onto cobbled pathways. It’s a stark contradiction to the barren wilderness around you, a sweet reminder that you’re nestled in a pocket of luxury amidst one of the harshest environments on the planet.

Activities and Amenities to Savor

While The Oasis at Death Valley promises comfort, it insists on adventures too. It combines relaxation with recreation in a way that’s utterly captivating.

Two Hotels, One Unforgettable Destination

Choose between two distinct hotel experiences. The AAA Four Diamond Inn at Death Valley offers timeless elegance with modern luxury, complete with breathtaking views of the desert sands and mountains beyond. Meanwhile, The Ranch at Death Valley delivers a more casual, family-friendly vibe with charm to spare.

The Lowest Golf Course on Earth!

Yes, really. Tee off at The Furnace Creek Golf Course at Death Valley, the world’s lowest-elevation golf course at 214 feet below sea level. Surrounded by rugged desert beauty, this 18-hole, par-72 course is a golfer’s dream. Plus, thanks to its unique position, you can boast that you’ve played golf in one of the most extraordinary places on Earth!

Other Activities

If golf isn’t your thing, there’s still plenty to explore. Hike through surreal salt flats, bike along scenic desert roads, or stargaze into one of the darkest night skies in the country at this Gold Tier International Dark Sky Park. The contrast between searing daylight and the cool serenity of an evening under the stars is truly unforgettable.

Planning Your Desert Escape

With its closest major cities being Las Vegas (2 hours) and Los Angeles (4 hours), The Oasis at Death Valley is ideally positioned for a weekend retreat or an extended stay. Whether you’re planning a whirlwind adventure or a relaxing getaway, Death Valley offers something for everyone.

Need help building your itinerary? Here’s an idea:

• Day 1: Check into The Inn or The Ranch and unwind by the spring-fed pool. End the evening with a meal at The Inn Dining Room — the perfect way to celebrate making it to this true American Oasis.
• Day 2: Take an early morning hike through Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes and catch the sunrise before it gets too hot. Enjoy lunch at The Ranch’s casual dining spot, the Wild Rose Tavern, then play an early evening round of golf capped off by an ice cream at the Ice Cream Parlor.
• Day 3: Explore Death Valley’s must-see spots like Badwater Basin, Zabriskie Point, and Dante’s View. Return to The Oasis for a soothing swim and then lunch at The Last Kind Words Saloon to end your trip.

Where Heat Meets Luxury

Death Valley is a land of extremes. The sun blazes like nowhere else on Earth, and the landscape feels like a different planet. It’s stark, wild, and unforgiving. And yet, The Oasis at Death Valley offers a harmony that’s hard to describe. It’s the cool against the heat, the calm against the intensity.

If you’re an adventure seeker, a desert dreamer, or someone who simply needs a serene escape, there’s no place quite like this. High temperatures and higher luxuries combine to create an experience that’s uniquely Death Valley.

Make your reservation at The Oasis at Death Valley today, and discover how wonderful contrast can be.

The post Why It Gets So Hot in Death Valley (And How You Can Cool Off at The Oasis) first appeared on The Oasis at Death Valley.

“Want to visit Tatooine? If so, take a trip to Death Valley National Park! The famous Star Wars movie series filmed scenes in the park for Episode IV – A New Hope and Episode VI – Return of the Jedi,” reads the National Parks Service’s website. Download the free NPS App to enjoy a guided driving audio tour of the spectacular Death Valley locations featured in Star Wars.

Photo by NPS. Star Wars, A New Hope, was filmed in the national park a few decades ago, when that type of filming was permitted. Most of the filming done within the park for the movies would no longer be permitted due to modern prohibitions on commercial filming within the wilderness.

Employees at The Oasis at Death Valley have shared stories and certainly know where the movie locations are. These include the breathtakingly and picturesque locations throughout Death Valley National Park including Dante’s View, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Desolations Canyon, Artist’s Drive, and Golden Canyon – all just a quick 20-to-40-minute drive from the resort – the only resort in Death Valley National Park.

Just two hours from Las Vegas through the desert and a little more than four hours from Los Angeles, the nearest town or pretty much anything is at least an hour’s drive at a high-speed limit and no traffic lights.

And if you want to explore the universe, this is the place – it’s one of the only Gold-Tier Dark Sky National Parks in the United States where stargazers can see the Milky Way with the naked eye.

In celebration of the epic tale and Hollywood franchise, The Oasis at Death Valley hyper-spaced an exclusive map for guests leading them to the filming locations that are easily accessible via car.

While Death Valley may seem like another universe to vacationers, those in the know have also found North America’s only true oasis that is the luxurious AAA Four-Diamond Inn at Death Valley and the family-friendly Ranch at Death Valley both part of the recent $250 million renaissance at The Oasis at Death Valley. Death Valley is usually sunny (there is almost no rain). Visitors will be met with massive spring-fed swimming pools averaging a comfortable 87 degrees year-round, the lowest-elevation USGA golf course on earth, cascading bougainvillea-adorned gardens, golf, tennis, horseback riding, numerous restaurants, a spring-watered date palm grove, a general store, post office, and an old-fashioned ice cream shop. With ample lush lawns to run and play or do just nothing but take in the stunning scenery during the day and stars at night. There is a resort, two hotels, 22 private casitas, and 80 cozy cottages.

Movie locations per the NPS website.

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“Reservations are high with anticipation, but many rooms are still available,“ said Rick During, the General Manager of The Oasis at Death Valley – the only resort located on a true American Oasis in the middle of the 3.4 million acre national park. “The East has its fall foliage and Death Valley has its legendary flowers–and when the conditions are right–it can be a lifetime in the making.”

Many enthusiasts think that this may just be “the year,” and it seems that they are correct. It is only February, and many are optimistic.

With the extremely damp fall and winter, Mother Nature may just give the fields of wildflowers found throughout the valley the green light to bloom. The average temperature of Death Valley is 73 degrees in February, 82 degrees in March, and 90 degrees in April.

The flower blooms emerge late February through early April. Park rangers say a “good bloom” is likely, but not necessarily a super bloom. But who knows? The flowers have been blooming in isolated middle-elevation areas of the park since late November.

And that’s not the only amazing sight to behold.

A large saltwater lake has appeared in Death Valley, one of the hottest, driest places in the Western Hemisphere and it’s still there.

“Most of us thought the lake would be gone by October,” said National Park Services park ranger Abby Wines. “We were shocked to see it still here after almost six months. It’s too shallow to kayak in, but it makes amazing reflections of the mountains.”

Also smack in the middle of the largest national park in the lower 48 states is a true American oasis where ancient waters bubble up from the ground to support an entire ecosystem at the Oasis at Death Valley, a secluded resort off of CA 190 This winter and spring vacation destination offers spring-fed pools averaging a comfortable 87 degrees, the lowest USGA golf course on earth, cascading bougainvillea-adorned gardens, and a spring-watered date palm grove. The lush oasis also attracts wildlife such as roadrunners and coyotes, and it is also one of the only gold-tier designated International Dark Sky Parks in the United States where stargazers can actually see the Milky Way with the naked eye.

Dating to 1927, the historic property encompasses several lodging options: The Inn at Death Valley and the family-friendly The Ranch at Death Valley, both part of a recent $200 million renaissance. There are also casitas, modern quiet luxury cabins, restaurants and more. Only two hours from Las Vegas and four hours from Los Angeles, Death Valley is an easy escape from the worried, rushing world.

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The vast desert landscape of California’s Death Valley National Park holds some of the most breathtaking hikes and scenery that should be on every adventurer’s bucket list. From towering sand dunes to dramatic canyons carved by ancient rivers, Death Valley offers an outdoor playground unlike any other. Whether you’re an experienced hiker looking for a new challenge or someone seeking out their first hiking adventure, these five Death Valley hikes will leave you in awe and longing for more. So pack your bags and put on your hiking boots because we’re about to take a journey through some of the most exhilarating trails this national park has to offer.

Wake Up and Walk the Badlands

Start your day by experiencing a captivating sunrise at Zabriskie Point. As the sun begins to peek over the horizon, casting a warm glow over the rocky terrain, it’s easy to see why catching sunrise at this spot is a must-do for every traveler. The colors that emerge as the sun rises are nothing short of breathtaking; from violet to pink to gold, the stark beauty of the badlands is on full display. Once the sun has risen, it’s time to explore the labyrinth of water- and wind-carved sediments that make up the Badlands Loop. This 2.7-mile hike takes you through terrain that was once part of an ancient lakebed, providing a glimpse into the region’s fascinating geological history. As you hike the loop, take in the stunning vistas that unfold before you; while the slopes may be virtually devoid of vegetation, the soft morning light only serves to highlight the raw, dramatic beauty of this rugged landscape.

A Canyon With Polish

The hike into Mosaic Canyon is a unique and thrilling journey through an area of exposed marble and breccia. The mosaic-like embedded rock fragments in the breccia give the canyon its name, and the rocks themselves more substantial than the loose sediments of the badlands below Zabriskie Point. The hike begins at the end of an unpaved road near Stovepipe Wells. There’s no formal trail, but follow the footprints through the wash, and you’ll soon be surrounded by incredible natural formations. As you walk, you’ll notice that the route narrows down to an area of rock that’s been polished to a remarkable smoothness by flash floods. Along the way, you’ll need to climb or work your way around a few dryfalls until you reach one that’s impassable, signaling the end of the trail. This roughly four-mile round-trip hike is definitely worth the effort, offering unforgettable views and experiences along the way.

Valley Low, Mountain High

Death Valley National Park may be most famous for Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, but it also boasts high-country areas that rise above 11,000 feet. One such peak is Telescope Peak, standing tall at 11,049 feet with its magnificent snow-capped summit visible from afar. While winter may not be the best time to attempt the challenging 14-mile round trip to the summit, the experience is a bucket list-worthy adventure once the snow melts. Starting from Mahagony Flat Campground, approximately 2.5 hours from The Inn at Death Valley, the trail takes hikers through both forested areas and unshaded slopes, ascending 3,000 feet in total. The payoff is worth the effort, as hikers take in stunning views of Death Valley, spotting ancient bristlecone pines (among the world’s oldest living things) and gaining the bragging rights of summiting the park’s highest peak.

Atop the Volcano

Nestled in the northern part of the park, and about 75 minutes north of The Oasis at Death Valley, lies Ubehebe Crater, a geological wonder that will leave you in awe. The crater’s round shape and well-defined rim make it instantly recognizable as a volcano. With a massive, craggy maw that’s 600 feet deep, Ubehebe stands out from its field of 13 sibling craters. It’s hard to believe that this impressive structure was created over 2,000 years ago, when magma met groundwater and set off an epic steam eruption. Luckily, visitors can explore the 1-1/2 mile trail that traces the rim and offers stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape. Even if you’re not a geology enthusiast, Ubehebe Crater is a must-visit destination that showcases the power and beauty of natural forces.

A Desert Waterfall

While Death Valley may not be the first place you think of when imagining picturesque waterfalls, Darwin Falls in the Panamint Springs area is a hidden gem that shouldn’t be missed. The hike to the falls is a relaxing two-mile round-trip trek that involves several crossings of a narrow stream. Once you reach the falls, you’ll be greeted by a modest cascade flowing down a mossy rock face into a small grotto. What makes this waterfall even more special is that it flows year-round, thanks to the spring that feeds it. And while the hike may not be particularly challenging, it offers a rare opportunity to see a waterfall in the heart of the desert.

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The post 5 Death Valley Hikes That Should be on Your Bucket List Now first appeared on The Oasis at Death Valley.

Looking for a family getaway that’s both exhilarating and enriching? Look no further than The Oasis at Death Valley! This unique national park is brimming with outdoor activities and experiences that are perfect for the whole family. Death Valley’s nearby ghost towns, curious wildlife, and rugged terrain are sure to inspire a sense of wonder and excitement in children and adults alike. And, if you’re looking for a break from screens, this park provides the perfect opportunity to unplug and experience the world around you first-hand. So why settle for virtual reality when you can experience the real thing? Whether you’re exploring the dunes or stargazing at night, a trip to Death Valley promises not only fun but also the chance to learn and grow together as a family. Here’s a look at three days of family fun in the lower-48’s largest national park.

Day 1: Morning

Discover Desert Denizens

The Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, a 30-minute drive from The Oasis at Death Valley, are a wonderland for early risers. The early morning is the best time of day to look for tracks etched in the sand by an assortment of Death Valley creatures: kangaroo mice, sidewinder snakes, coyotes, and desert kit foxes. Plus, kids love sliding down the soft dune slopes! On the way back, take a detour for the easy walk along the Salt Creek Interpretive Trail’s boardwalk to look for rare desert pupfish. During the spring mating season, these energetic little fish put on quite a show as they scuffle for territory and look for partners.

Breakfast at The Inn Dining Room

When it comes to breakfast, there’s no better place to gather together than The Inn. You and your family can expect a warm and welcoming atmosphere with some of the tastiest treats around. And one in particular stands out: date bread. Admittedly, young children may initially balk at what appears to be wrinkled fruit of indeterminate origin. But one bite of date bread fresh from the bake shop or a Belgian waffle topped with Deglet Noor date butter may convert even the most finicky of eaters to the sweet uses of these delicious desert fruits grown on the premises.

Afternoon

Hang Out by the Pool

Following your morning explorations, the afternoon is a perfect time to chill out at The Ranch’s pool. With natural springs providing a steady flow of warm water–an always pleasant 87 degrees–you’ll be able to unwind and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The kids can splash around to their hearts’ content, while parents can take a moment to bask in the sun and recharge. When you’re ready for a quick bite, head over to The Ice Cream Parlor for a delicious selection of refreshments to satisfy any craving. It’s the perfect way to cap off a morning of adventure and recharge for whatever the rest of the day has in store.

Saddle Up!

The Furnace Creek Stables offers one and two hour guided trail rides, suitable for riders of all levels. The one-hour horseback ride takes you into the valley floor where you will get a true taste of the desert. The two-hour ride travels into the foothills of the Funeral Mountains and offers extraordinary views of the valley below. Explore Death Valley as the ’49ers did over 160 years ago!

Evening

Gaze at the Night Sky

With its clear, dry air and distance from urban light sources, Death Valley became the third (and largest!) U.S. national park to earn Gold Tier status as a Dark Sky Park from the International Dark Sky Association. After dinner, drive just a short distance from The Ranch to find a big expanse of sky to introduce your family to the wonders of stargazing. Binoculars and a star chart will help you pick out individual features but the smear of the Milky Way across the blackness will be unmistakable. In winter and spring, park rangers host several stargazing events within the park.

Day 2: Morning

Walk Along a Volcano

The geological history of Death Valley is truly fascinating, and there’s no better place to introduce kids to it than at Ubehebe Crater. This crater was formed about 2,100 years ago when a volcano erupted, creating an 800-foot deep divot in the Earth’s surface. While some of Death Valley’s geological processes may be difficult to comprehend, the power of the blast that formed Ubehebe is impossible to ignore. Walking along the 1 ½-mile trail that follows the crater’s rim is an unforgettable experience, as you gaze down into the massive hole in the ground and ponder the sheer force of the volcanic explosion. For kids who love nature and are fascinated by the power of the Earth, Ubehebe Crater is a must-visit destination.

Afternoon

Explore Badwater Road

Head down south from the Ranch at Death Valley to explore some of the national park’s most distinctive landmarks. Your kids will love the short, one-mile hike to see Natural Bridge, a stunning eroded rock span that connects two sides of a canyon. The famous Devil’s Golf Course is also a must-see destination. Be sure to tell the kids to keep quiet for a few minutes, so everyone can hear the popping sounds that the salt crystals make as they expand and contract. The boardwalk at Badwater is another must-stop, so your kids can claim bragging rights about walking on the very bottom of North America. At 282 feet below sea level, it’s quite an accomplishment! As you look west towards the Panamint Range, your eyes will be immediately drawn to the towering peak of Telescope Peak, which stands at an impressive 11,049 feet – the highest point in the entire park. Gazing up at its sheer size and magnitude, you’ll feel in awe of the natural beauty that surrounds you. On your way back to the ranch, it’s worth taking a nine-mile detour along Artist’s Drive, which will take you on a journey through the breathtaking badlands of the Black Mountains. The drive eventually leads to the park’s most colorful natural formation – Artist’s Palette. Here, you and your kids can marvel at the incredible hues that adorn the rocky hills, with a spectrum of reds, greens, and purples that look like they’ve been painted onto the landscape. For the best view of these magnificent colors, make sure to catch Artist’s Palette in the late afternoon, when the setting sun illuminates the colors in all their glory.

Evening

Dinner at The Inn Dining Room

The relaxed elegance of The Inn’s Dining Room makes it a comfortable spot for families. The curving banquettes are ideal if you have a larger group, though t’s hard to beat a table out on the veranda. Even after dinner is through, the dining room has more to offer. Parents and kids alike can take a moment to observe the classic art pieces that adorn the walls, providing a historical perspective on the once wild and rugged landscapes of the West.

Day 3: Morning

Enjoy a Commanding View

Death Valley National Park boasts of being the largest national park in the United States, apart from Alaska. It’s a vast expanse filled with fascinating geological features and captivating scenery that draw visitors from all over the world. If you’re looking for the best place to take in the sprawling beauty of the park, 5,475-foot Dante’s View is where you want to be. This viewpoint, nestled in the Black Mountains, offers a panoramic view of the valley for miles on end, with Badwater and the salt flats far below. The trails along the ridgeline offer a range of views that will take your breath away, and the perfect opportunity to snap some unforgettable photos of your family’s time in this other-wordly environment.

Afternoon

Visit a Ghost Town

Take a drive up Daylight Pass Road and cross the Nevada state line to explore Rhyolite, the region’s largest ghost town. Once a city of 10,000 people, Rhyolite boomed after a nearby discovery of gold. Today, you can still see the shell of a three-story bank building and a house made out of bottles. And if you’re up for an adventure (and have a high clearance vehicle), the slow-going 27-mile drive through rugged Titus Canyon takes you back through a dramatic chasm of towering cliffs. Along the way, you’ll also pass the ghost town of Leadfield and may spot desert bighorn sheep at Klare Spring

Evening

Sip a Sarsaparilla

A close relative of root beer, sarsaparilla was a popular soft drink in the Old West. You’ll find sarsaparilla over at The Last Kind Words Saloon at The Ranch at Death Valley. With its historic photos, wagon-wheel chandeliers, and Navajo rugs, the saloon brings alive the world of the Wild West. And while the kids can enjoy their sarsaparilla, parents can savor it in craft cocktails like The Last Kind Word (High West Prairie Bourbon, sweet vermouth, lemon juice, sarsaparilla, and bitters).

Or Enjoy the Ice Cream Parlor

The sweetest addition to the historic Ranch at Death Valley’s Town Square, the Ice Cream Parlor brings the old-timey soda fountain and ice cream parlor of your youth to Death Valley. Harkening back to a simpler time, the Ice Cream Parlor’s retro interior complete with stained glass windows, classic counter, and mirrored ice cream bar conjures up memories of milkshakes from those idyllic childhood memories you thought you had forgotten. Invite the kids to experience old time favorites, like a banana split, with a touch of good old-fashioned Americana.

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The post Family Fun! Death Valley Inspires Awe and Wonder first appeared on The Oasis at Death Valley.

Lake Manly, a saltwater lake, is currently one of the most distinctive geological features of Death Valley National Park. Last appearing in 2005 and now back after historic rainfall in the fall of 2023, it is situated at the lowest point of the park and is a remnant of a vast ancient lake that once existed in the area. Despite its unusual brackish waters, which are four times saltier than the ocean, Lake Manly is home to a variety of unique species that have adapted to its harsh environment, such as the pupfish, a small fish found only in a few locations in the American West.

Exploring the lake area is a fascinating experience. As you walk, you’ll notice a white boundary along the shores caused by the high salt concentration. The lake’s eerie, almost alien-like appearance, combined with the surrounding rocky mountains, gives you a sense of otherworldliness. The lake’s location, surrounded by the barren, desolate landscape, only adds to its mystique.

Taking a stroll around the Lake Manly wouldn’t be complete without enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding landscape, particularly from the nearby park lookout points. The area offers an excellent opportunity for hiking and photography, offering visitors plenty of opportunities to capture this exceptionally rare occurrence.

There is no better time than the present to come witness Lake Manly before it evaporates into the Death Valley’s rarified air. This unique geological feature and its mystical appearance creates an incredible experience for anyone who visit and this once-in-a-lifetime experience is not to be missed. With The Oasis at Death Valley a short drive away, make us your home base for exploring not only this rare wonder, but this land of amazing contrasts. Find your perfect offer and hurry to see Lake Manly before it disappears!

First Hand Accounts

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Play a memorable round of golf

Not only is there a championship golf course in Death Valley, but it is also recognized by Golf Digest as one of “America’s 50 Toughest Courses.”

This 18-hole, par-70 course was designed by the renowned golf course architect, Perry Dye. Four sets of tees enable players of all skill levels to participate. But with water features on 9 holes, even the most experienced players will find something to challenge them on this course.

Since the bottom of Death Valley boasts the lowest elevation in North America, The Furnace Creek Golf Course at Death Valley also has the distinction of being the lowest golf course in the US. It sits 214 feet below sea level. It’s also one of those clubs where you can boast you played the game and bought the T-shirt…in the well-stocked Pro Shop.

Enjoy trail riding through spectacular desert

Visit Furnace Creek Stables, where you can join their fantastic 1 or 2-hours guided horseback trail rides through Death Valley National Park. Choose from a ride into the desert at the base of the valley or a longer ride into the foothills of the ominously named Funeral Mountains.

On a clear day, you can see over 100 miles from the foothills. This is a perfect way to reenact the journey through Death Valley followed by pioneers and gold and silver prospectors. And if you prefer to be driven rather than ride, Furnace Creek Stables also offers evening hay wagon and carriage rides.

Hike through breathtaking scenery

There are few mapped trails through Death Valley National Park, but well-trodden paths thread through the valley. Recreational walkers can follow such informal trails into Mosaic Canyon (4 miles), Golden Canyon (3 miles) or visit the Harmony Borax Works historic site (0.4 miles).

For hiking April through October, you need to take care when you’re out under the sun. Take plenty of bottled water and apply sunscreen. Wear wide-brimmed hats, too. Even in winter, the dry air in Death Valley means you need to stay hydrated.

If you want more of a challenge, the steep 14-mile path up to Telescope Peak in the Panamint Range makes for a challenging all-day hike. At 11,043 feet above sea level, the peak is the highest point in Death Valley. However, be warned. Despite the pleasant temperatures below, these mountains get their fair share of snow in winter. So, for a hike into the mountains, you’ll need to carry layers in your backpack you can add as you ascend.

Smell the flowers

You might be shocked to discover that Death Valley is a great place to admire wildflowers. Between mid-February and mid-May, spring showers often paint the valley floor in a blaze of colors.

If you’re visiting Death Valley in spring, head for Jubilee Pass near The Inn at Death Valley. There you might find blazing star, desert gold, Encelia, evening primrose, mimulus, phacelia, poppies, verbena, and, of course, flowering cacti.

In late spring and early summer, you’ll see plenty of wildflowers at higher elevations as you hike into the Panamints. However, you’ll find different flower species at higher elevations when compared to the valley floor, such as the endemic Panamint daisies, paintbrush, lupine, Mojave wild rose, rabbitbrush, and mariposa lilies.

Learn how to relax

In all the classic B-Westerns, the heroes check into the hotel above a saloon to soak in a hot tin bath and wash off the trail dust. Although The Inn at Death Valley is a historic inn, you’ll find that things have changed a little over the years. Today, The Inn features a spa with a trained masseuse exclusively for the use of guests.

So, if you want to pamper yourself with a relaxing spa day, check into The Inn at Death Valley. Rather than an antique tin bath, expect to find brand new spa rooms with services such as aromatherapy, salt scrubs, hot stone massages, and reflexology. And if you want a swim to wake you up, The Inn at Death Valley boasts a spectacular spring-fed pool.

Explore a saloon from the Old West

If you dream of treading your cowboy boots into a saloon from the Old West, check out the recently added The Last Kind Words Saloon, located at The Ranch at Death Valley. This Western-themed restaurant and bar is an aesthetically pleasing tribute to one-horse-town saloons of a bygone age.

The menu follows the theme. You can look forward to a spicy chuckwagon chili, Dante’s chicken wings, Tomahawk bone-in ribeye, game of the day, tasty steaks, and wild Alaskan salmon. Vegetarians aren’t neglected, with delicious grilled flatbread, 1849 penne, and poblano macaroni and cheese. And, of course, the classic selection of whiskeys and beers you’d expect in any Wild West saloon…as well as some fine wines you might not!

Gaze at the stars

Because Death Valley National Park is so far away from civilization, the park is designated a Gold Tier Dark Sky Park. From Furnace Creek, you can enjoy unobstructed views of the night sky that make Death Valley an excellent, year-round destination for keen astronomy enthusiasts.

In fact, The Ranch at Death Valley hosts regular Star Parties in conjunction with the Las Vegas Astronomical Society. Death Valley is close enough to LA and Vegas for city dwellers to come for a getaway weekend of stargazing but far enough away that the city light pollution does not interfere with the local night sky.

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The house-baked date bread served at The Inn Dining Room and available in The Ranch’s General Store has remained a staple at the resort since the 1930s, while guests have happily sipped cooling, date shakes for decades.

The Oasis at Death Valley is all about a sense of place. Set in one of the world’s most dramatic landscapes, this historic resort connects guests both to the surrounding desert and the region’s unique Old West history.

Two of the resort’s full-service restaurants, The Inn Dining Room and The Last Kind Words Saloon, even let visitors taste the desert by incorporating ingredients native to or grown in the Southwest and California into a host of dishes. Here’s a look at the different ways dates, prickly pear, and pomegranates are used at the resort:

Dates

Before opening to guests in 1930 as a more affordable alternative to The Inn, the site of today’s Ranch at Death Valley was an agricultural operation named Greenland Ranch.

In the book Magnificent Oasis at Death Valley: The History of Furnace Creek Resort and its Evolution into the Oasis at Death Valley, David and Gayle Woodruff write that date production at The Ranch began in the early 1920s. According to David Woodruff, The Ranch received free date palm trees from a defunct U.S. Department of Agriculture project in Arizona. The government agency, he says, wanted to test Death Valley for date cultivation because of the absence of infesting insects in the area. But along with the lack of pests came a lack of bees, which meant the trees needed to be pollinated by hand.

Eventually 1,500 date palm trees at The Ranch produced 200 tons of fruit annually, primarily the Deglet Noor (which translates as “Date of Light”) variety. Woodruff says that commercial date production at The Ranch continued until 1996. But a date orchard planted below The Inn at Death Valley didn’t fare nearly as well and was abandoned in the 1940s during World War II.

Dates certainly have had a long and prominent presence at the resort. The house-baked date bread served at The Inn Dining Room and available in The Ranch’s General Store has remained a staple at the resort since the 1930s, says Woodruff, while guests have happily sipped cooling, date shakes for decades.

Dates also pop up on The Inn’s Dining Room menu. For breakfast, you can order delicious pancakes with Deglet Noor date butter!

Prickly Pear

Six different species of prickly pear, a common desert cactus, grow in Death Valley National Park. While there are variations between individual species, all prickly pear live up to their name thanks to paddle-like appendages covered with spines. Once the spines are removed, the paddles (known as nopales) are used in traditional Mexican cuisine.

At The Oasis at Death Valley, however, it’s prickly pear’s sweet fruit that adds flavor to a number of dishes and drinks. But even the fruit has to be handled gingerly because the skin has little nubs with sharp, needle-like spines.

Chefs at The Last Kind Words Saloon prepare a spinach salad with a prickly pear vinaigrette and the baby back ribs feature a prickly pear barbecue sauce. For a real treat, The Inn’s lobby bar, as well as the Inn pool café, mixes a margarita that gets its distinctive tang from prickly pear purée. And if you’re looking for gift items, the General Store carries a big range of prickly pear-based foods: gummy bears, tea, taffy, chocolate bars, and jelly.

Pomegranates

Though not native to California or the American Southwest, according to the Utah State University Cooperative Extension, pomegranates have thrived in the New World since arriving with Spanish missionaries during the early 16th century and California by 1769. The state now produces 90 percent of the pomegranates grown in the U.S.

One of the oldest cultivated fruits and dubbed “the Fruit of the Desert,” pomegranates are native to a region from Iran to northern India and thrive in semi-arid conditions, including lots of sun. So, not surprisingly, pomegranates have historically been cultivated at scattered spots in the Death Valley region, including the Barker Ranch at the base of the Panamint Range and in nearby southern Nevada.

Pomegranate seeds are typically used as a garnish, while the juice is often added as a flavoring to drinks. The Inn lobby bar’s signature cocktails include the Pomegranate Squeeze — made with Ketel One Citron Vodka, Pama (pomegranate) liqueur, and lemon juice.

For more travel experiences available from Xanterra Travel Collection® and its affiliated properties, visit xanterra.com/stories.

The post Dates and Prickly Pears and Pomegranates, Oh My! first appeared on The Oasis at Death Valley.

The fact is that The Oasis at Death Valley can transform special occasions into unforgettable ones. A world-famous desert getaway, with its two hotels, fine dining, and diverse collection of event venues, can accommodate gatherings of all kinds — from executive retreats to lavish weddings.

Granted, when you hear the name Death Valley, you may think rough-and-ready, not rest-and-relaxation. But with the resort’s unique facilities and a dedicated events team to help with planning, The Oasis at Death Valley is the place you’ll want to be. Here are a few reasons why.

The Middle of Nowhere is Closer Than You Think

While much of Death Valley National Park is designated federal wilderness, the area can easily be reached by guests traveling from around the country, or even from distant parts of the globe. McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas, which is just two hours from the resort, has direct service from numerous U.S. cities, as well as hubs in Asia and Europe. And from Los Angeles International Airport, it’s a beautiful drive of less than five hours through the California desert to the resort.

Under the Desert Sky

The Inn’s outdoor event spaces let you take full advantage of the valley’s wonderful weather and the desert’s incomparable starry nights in the country’s largest International Dark Sky National Park.

Part of the resort’s $250 million renovation, the Mission Gardens, a romantic and verdant space for outdoor weddings and other larger gatherings, was created from an unlikely source. The whitewashed stone walls that enclose the gardens date to the 1920s and were originally part of an adobe building that served as The Inn’s laundry facility. The building burned down in 2014 but the walls were salvaged and restored, and together with palm trees, fountains, and colorful bougainvillea give the Mission Gardens an atmosphere that evokes Old California.

Another great venue for a wedding, especially if you’re hosting a smaller party, is the lawn area below the main hotel and adjacent to the 22 Spanish-style casitas that were added to the property during the renovation. Or for cocktail receptions and other group functions, you can take your pick of two other outdoor areas: Stargazer’s Terrace, with its wraparound views of the valley and the surrounding mountains, and the Panamint Deck, which overlooks the valley and the hotel’s palm gardens.

The Gold Rush Room

More Venues: The Great Indoors

With distinctive indoor event spaces, The Inn at Death Valley can handle group occasions of all kinds and sizes. Ranging from the intimate boardroom, an ideal place for executive off-sites, to the 1,400-square-foot, 120-person capacity Gold Rush Room, which has two wood-burning fireplaces and overlooks The Inn’s famous spring-fed pool, you’ll find choices that combine a historic ambience and a distinct sense of Death Valley.

Several of the rooms feature vintage stonework, and in the Oasis Foyer and the Big Horn Room, the ponderosa pine ceiling timbers were once part of railroad trestles used by trains hauling borax out of the valley. No uninspired hotel ballrooms with giant room dividers here.

The Last Kind Words Saloon

Distinctive Dining

Maybe you’re planning a wedding rehearsal dinner or just want to get together for a special meal with a group of friends during a weekend getaway. But whatever your plans, The Oasis at Death Valley’s restaurants let you dine in style.

The elegant Inn Dining Room blends a Southwest décor that features historic paintings of the American West with a contemporary menu of desert-inspired dishes to create a culinary experience that is truly of Death Valley. Favorites include the Wagyu ribeye and the blue cheese-stuffed date appetizer.

As beautiful as the main dining room may be, for a truly memorable meal, there’s nothing like dining beneath the starry desert sky out on the restaurant’s terrace. And next to the dining room, The Inn’s elegant lobby bar is the place to catch up with friends over a nightcap.

Meanwhile back at the ranch, that is, The Ranch at Death Valley, The Last Kind Words Saloon has added an informal and atmospheric dining option to the resort. Meticulously designed with historic artifacts, Western artwork, and Native American crafts, the restaurant brings alive the world of a classic Old West saloon. It’s the perfect spot for a high-spirited gathering where everyone can don jeans and cowboy boots and dig into such classic Western fare as a bison strip loin or barbecue baby back ribs. And when it’s time for a toast, take your pick from the saloon’s impeccable collection of small-batch and boutique American whiskies.

The Furnace Creek Golf Course at Death Valley

Fun in the Sun

While Death Valley is justly famous for its desert hiking trails, the resort offers all sorts of activities if you want to host group outings during company retreats, family reunions, and weddings.

Saddle up for guided rides onto the floor of the desert or into the foothills, as well as memorable sunset adventures, with Furnace Creek Stables. Families also love the carriage and hay wagon rides. Organize your own tournament at the challenging and beautiful Furnace Creek Golf Course at Death Valley, the world’s lowest-elevation course at 214 feet below sea level. Or treat your maid of honor and best man, to a massage and a body wrap at The Inn’s Wellness Sancturary.

Then again, nothing beats just hanging out poolside with friends, family, or colleagues at the resort’s two spring-fed swimming pools, both of which stay consistently in the mid 80s. The Inn’s pool has cabanas and deck-side wood-burning fireplaces, which everyone will appreciate on one of Death Valley’s surprisingly chilly nights.

For more experiences available from Xanterra Travel Collection® and its affiliated properties, visit xanterra.com/stories.

The post Celebrate Your Special Occasion in Death Valley! first appeared on The Oasis at Death Valley.

His family camped over Memorial Day weekend and, not surprisingly, it was pretty darn hot.

“My mom was saying, ‘Gosh, if there were only a breath of air, just a bit of a wind for us,’” recalled the California historian who specializes in Death Valley. “We ate dinner and we’re all lying awake in the tent because it was so hot. Then, off in the distance, you could hear the winds coming toward us. The winds finally hit the tent after 20 minutes of roaring down the valley. Flattened it.”

They indeed proved to be ill winds for the family.

While driving to the ghost town of Skidoo on the high country road to the landmark Charcoal Kilns, “all of a sudden the engine on our Ford LTD station wagon started making a noise,” Woodruff says. “My dad turned off the engine and saw that the car was out of engine oil. Up on the Skidoo road. At the end of May.”

Apparently, the oil drain plug had been knocked loose when the car bottomed out in the campground. So Woodruff’s father pointed the station wagon downhill. Then, with the engine off and no power steering or brakes, he managed to coast all the way down to Stovepipe Wells. “It was harrowing,” says Woodruff.

Despite such a traumatic introduction, over the years Woodruff continued to visit Death Valley and eventually went to work at the Furnace Creek Inn, the original name of the historic Inn at Death Valley. As an avid hiker and backpacker, working at The Inn gave Woodruff and his wife Gayle the chance to get to know the area and also develop an expertise in its history. So in addition to guiding tours and delivering lectures, Woodruff, along with Gayle, eventually authored the book, Magnificent Oasis at Death Valley.

Here are some of Woodruff’s recollections of his years at The Inn, as well as his insights into the unique history of the resort.

Zabriskie Point, Death Valley National Park

Q: Why did you move to Death Valley?

A: My wife Gayle and I were looking for places to go hiking and started taking winter vacations in Death Valley. We would camp at the campground during January and February and had just a glorious time, for maybe one-third of the price that our friends paid to go to Mexico or Hawaii.

That started our fondness for Death Valley. Gayle was enamored with the wonderful winter weather and the overall beauty that Death Valley offered. We vacationed there almost every winter during the early 80s.

Once our son was done with college, we were in a financial position to sell our house and semi-retire. We were familiar with Death Valley and knew they had a lot of seasonal jobs that would allow us to take our summers off. So in the early 90s, (we went) out to Death Valley for a job interview. We were hired as the oldest busboy and busgirl on the property.

In the winter Death Valley is a hiking paradise, and we were able to hike on our days off and in the morning before work. We had what we considered probably the best lives in the world.

Q: How did you uncover the history of The Inn?

A: Even though U.S. Borax (formed when the Pacific Borax Co., which built the original Inn, merged with United States Potash Corp. in 1956) had sold the hotel property in 1968, they still came up to Death Valley a lot. They would do retreats and corporate meetings at the resort.

By 2001 we had developed such an interest in the history (of the resort) that we started collecting old postcards and borax advertising. Because I was in charge of food and beverage by then, when I saw on the banquet calendar that the borax company was coming, I thought we would do something extra special. So I made some centerpieces for the borax folks for their (dinner) tables. Old borax advertisements and things such as that.

The president of the borax company was there and I remember he picked up the centerpiece on his table and asked the waiter, “Where’d these come from?” The waiter pointed at me and I went and talked to the president, and he was quite pleased that I had an interest in the company.

He said, “We have this storeroom of stuff that you might find interesting. You should come down and look at it sometime. It took us almost a year but we finally went. The room was about 15 feet long and 10 feet wide, with shelves all around. Boxes, notebooks, binders — all kinds of things.

The borax company had saved literally every correspondence from way back in 1888, then onto building the hotel and onto selling it to the Fred Harvey Co. And everything in between. Not to mention tens of thousands of pictures.

Now we had this wealth of information that really no one in the modern day had gone through or looked at… (about) the history of the resort itself and how the borax company built it and what the hotel evolved into. If I had never had the good fortune to meet the president of the borax company at that banquet, none of this would have ever come about.

Q: What do you think of the recent $100 million renovation of The Inn?

A: I think it’s incredible. They did a really great job of preserving the historical integrity. When I worked there, I used to worry, almost chronically, about the hotel being able to continue on. Because let’s face it, it was an old hotel, and I saw all of the inner workings that needed attention. It’s absolutely incredible that (the Xanterra Travel Collection®) actually spent the kind of money The Inn needed and enabled that hotel to carry on for probably another ten decades.

The overall improvements? I love them, I think they’re great. Before I ever worked there, being a camping guest who would go and have an adult beverage on the deck at The Inn and look at the sunset view, that was one of my favorite ways to spend the late afternoon and early evening in Death Valley. But even as a guest, I couldn’t believe that the parking lot used to be right in front of The Inn.

Here you’re looking out on what I used to call a billion-dollar view and yet in the foreground were all of these cars. Car alarms and brake lights. (Guests) yelling at the kids when unloading the luggage. I found it disruptive the entire time I worked there. I thought that should be someplace else. Now you drive up and offload and there are no (parked) cars anymore. I love that.

And certainly all of the improvements at the pool. The pool has always been the centerpiece and now they have a real spa facility. Though I’m not a spa guy myself, I think that’s really nice.

Q: Can you share some of the hidden history of The Inn?

A: The room underneath The Inn, the Oasis Room, was a lounge and a restaurant at one time until it got converted into a banquet and meeting room space in 1996. It was the last structure and part of the hotel built in 1937.

The dining room and the entire building up above was already complete and done. But when Prohibition ended, they needed a bar and made a small makeshift thing in the back. It was extremely small, just enough space to have drinks. So they wanted a bigger lounge and they also wanted a second restaurant by the time the hotel got up to 66 rooms. They got the idea to put the new bar and second restaurant directly underneath the existing dining room and excavate the hillside out during the construction work. Someone got the idea that they were going to have to hold the upstairs up while they did the excavation, so they decided to dismantle the old railroad trestle that was about 16 miles to the east of the hotel.

The borax train used to run on it, hauling borax in the 1910s and early 1920s. It was made of beautiful Western white pine, ponderosa pine that came from Mt. Charleston near Las Vegas. They dismantled the bridge and brought these massive timbers to The Inn and stuck them under the building as they excavated. They did such a great job that they left the timbers there and incorporated them into the structure of the downstairs.

The timbers in the ceiling of the Oasis Room have been covered, but are still visible framing the doors. But the timbers are more visible in the Oasis foyer and the Big Horn Room. All three of these rooms were built at the same time and incorporated the same excavation and support method with the railroad trestle timbers. And the walls in one room are lined with colemanite, which was the most popular form of borax that they mined in Death Valley.

For more travel experiences available from Xanterra Travel Collection® and its affiliated properties, visit xanterra.com/stories.

The post Behind the Scenes with the Historian of the Oasis at Death Valley first appeared on The Oasis at Death Valley.