The place where Star Wars was filmed (Episode IV: A New Hope) among many others, but don’t blame us if we have our favorites from the list :-)

When people hear the name "Death Valley" their only thought is: “Who would want to visit a place with a name like that??” After just a few days of exploration we completely fell in love with this incredible place. It ended up being a land of contrasts and paradoxes. The subtle colors and unique lighting of the landscape, turns out to be a place of solitude and beauty for all those who take the time out to explore this beautiful and unique National Park.

The ominous name was given to it because of one unfortunate situation; when a group of pioneers were lost there in the winter of 1849-1850. One member of the group lost his life there but the others also assumed they would join him. So, upon rescue one of them turned, looked back and said: "Goodbye, Death Valley." And with that, he made history.

It is 140 miles long but after spending a couple of days there, it seems as if it could stretch forever.

Badwater Basin in Death Valley, is this below-sea-level area with steady drought and record summer heat, which makes this National Park a land of extremes. An otherworldly place located 279 feet below sea level, which makes it near the lowest point in the western hemisphere. This low point is actually sitting on a 9,000 foot deep accumulation of sand, silt and gravel. And it was pretty fun walking on salt too.

Artist's Palette, Badwater Basin and Red Cathedral

Artist's Palette location best shows all the colors Death Valley is rich with. As the rocks wither and erode, their sediments splash the hillside with an unusual array of colors including green, purple, mustard, and orange-tan. The colors result from the mixing of red and yellow iron oxides with minerals found in volcanic ash.

So what do you think? Is it worth a visit? We believe so, and before you go, plan and take care because it is still the hottest, driest, and lowest National Park.