Explore Spain’s world-famous natural scenery and cultural heritage – and savor its acclaimed cuisine at every pit stop – with a road trip across this beautiful country.
22.02.2024 - 21:15 / travelandleisure.com / National Park
Death Valley National Park, which usually known for its record-setting temperatures is making headlines for something truly unique — lots and lots of rain.
So much so that the National Parks Service (NPS) was able to pop a few kayaks into a temporary lake that formed over the famed Saltwater Basin.
“You might think with no drain to the sea, that Death Valley would always have a lake,” park ranger Abby Wines shared on the park’s website. “But this is an extremely rare event. Normally the amount of water flowing in is much less than the evaporation rate.”
According to local news outlet, KTLA, the state saw 12.56 inches of rain in February alone, making it the fourth wettest February in the state’s recorded history. And all that rain made its way to Death Valley, which sits along the California and Nevada border, filling Badwater Basin, which sits 282 feet below sea level — the lowest point in North America.
According to the NPS, the park typically receives just two inches of rain per year; however, nearly five inches have fallen in the park over the last six months, including 1.5 inches during a particularly strong storm between February 4 to 7, filling the lake to a high enough level that it’s now possible to paddle around on it.
“The lake was deep enough to kayak for a few weeks after Hurricane Hilary, but unfortunately, people couldn’t come enjoy it then,” Wines added. “Every road in the park was damaged by flash floods, and it took two months to open the first road into the park. Now, most of the main roads are open, so it’s a great time to come visit!”
The lake, Lake Manly, is currently filled with about one foot of water and will likely only stay this way for a few weeks. So, the park is welcoming visitors to bring their own kayaks and head out for a float.
“Death Valley does not have any kayaks available for rent,” a park official shared with CNN.
If folks are planning on paddling in the park, they will need to bring their own gear. We also recommend bringing some water to wash the salt of your gear or person.”
The only thing to note is, like all other times of the year, officials urge visitors to minimize their impact on the extremely delicate environment. This includes staying only on marked trails (or in your kayak) and to parking in only designated areas or fully out of driving lanes. Most of the campgrounds are also open, so make a reservation and stay the night so you can wake up and visit the lake one more time before you go.
Explore Spain’s world-famous natural scenery and cultural heritage – and savor its acclaimed cuisine at every pit stop – with a road trip across this beautiful country.
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