Death Valley National Park: Golden Canyon, Badwater Basin & the 20 Mule Team Story
Death Valley National Park is a land of extremes—home to the hottest temperatures ever recorded, the lowest point in North America, and some of the most breathtaking desert landscapes in the world. On our recent visit, we embarked on three ranger-led programs that brought the park’s geology, history, and ecology to life. We also explored some of its most iconic landmarks, including Ubehebe Crater and Zabriskie Point.
If you’re planning a trip to Death Valley or just love learning about incredible places, join us as we dive into the history, science, and adventure of this legendary national park.
Golden Canyon – Walking Through a Star Wars Film Set
Our adventure began at Golden Canyon, a breathtaking hike through golden-hued rock formations shaped by millions of years of erosion. The towering canyon walls make it one of the most scenic trails in the park, but it’s also famous for another reason—it was a filming location for Star Wars: A New Hope!
As we walked through the winding trail, our ranger guide explained how the canyon was once part of an ancient lakebed. The minerals left behind by evaporated water are what give the rocks their stunning golden color. The hike itself was moderate, with some narrow sections and small rock scrambles, but the views made it well worth the effort.
Badwater Basin – The Lowest Point in North America
Next, we headed to one of the most surreal landscapes in Death Valley—Badwater Basin. Sitting at 282 feet BELOW sea level, this vast salt flat is one of the lowest places on Earth. It’s also one of the hottest places on the planet, with summer temperatures that can soar above 130°F (54°C)! The hottest temperature ever recorded at 134°F was recorded in the park!
Walking across the crunchy salt flats felt like stepping onto another planet. Our ranger explained how water occasionally flows into the basin after rare desert rainstorms, but due to the extreme heat, it quickly evaporates, leaving behind thick salt deposits. This natural process has been happening for thousands of years, continually reshaping the landscape.
We also learned about the famous Badwater Pool, a small spring-fed pool near the parking lot that remains despite the harsh environment. The water is incredibly salty, making it undrinkable—hence the name “Badwater.”
Harmony Borax Works – The 20 Mule Team Legacy
One of the most fascinating stops on our journey was Harmony Borax Works, where we learned about Death Valley’s mining history and the legendary 20 Mule Team wagons. In the late 1800s, borax mining was booming in the region, and this site played a crucial role in processing and transporting the mineral.
Borax, also known as “white gold,” was used for everything from cleaning products to glassmaking. But getting it out of Death Valley was no easy task. Workers developed the 20 Mule Team, an elaborate system of two wagons hitched to a long string of mules, capable of carrying up to 36 tons of borax across the desert. The journey took 10 days to reach the nearest railroad in Mojave, California.
Today, the remnants of the borax works, along with an old wooden wagon, stand as a reminder of this incredible feat of endurance and ingenuity. The 20 Mule Team brand remains popular today, with its name living on in household cleaning products.
Other Must-See Stops in Death Valley
🔹 Ubehebe Crater – This massive volcanic crater, over 600 feet deep, was created by a powerful steam explosion thousands of years ago. The hike around the rim offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding desert.
🔹 Zabriskie Point – One of the most photographed spots in Death Valley, this overlook provides breathtaking views of colorful badlands shaped by ancient lake deposits. The landscape looks especially stunning at sunrise and sunset!
Final Thoughts
Our visit to Death Valley National Park was an unforgettable experience. From hiking through Golden Canyon and standing in Badwater Basin to learning about the 20 Mule Team’s role in borax mining, every stop offered a glimpse into the natural wonders and rich history of this extreme landscape.
If you’re planning a trip to Death Valley, we highly recommend attending a ranger-led program to gain a deeper appreciation for the park’s geology, history, and wildlife. And don’t forget to bring plenty of water, as the desert heat is no joke!
Have you visited Death Valley? What was your favorite part? Let us know in the comments!
📍 Pin This Post for Later!
📸 Follow Our Adventures: @TheRoamingDad on YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook
🔔 Subscribe for More National Park Guides & RV Travel Tips!
#DeathValley #NationalParks #GoldenCanyon #BadwaterBasin #UbehebeCrater #HarmonyBoraxWorks #20MuleTeam #FamilyTravel #TheRoamingDad