July 6
Early start to get the truck out the dirt trail before there’s anyone driving in and we end up in a one way jam (it can happen).
Then making a bee-line to the nearest Starbucks (they’re everywhere) in Pahrump, NV for breakfast. And internet connection. A good place to get the blog up to date.
After some restocking and reloading (gas, water, etc.) off we go on our day drive through the lowest place in America (and the hottest place on earth) : Death Valley, CA.
Driving through on the only road there is.
Death Valley Junction, Furnace Creek, Zabrieski Point, Stovepipe Wells, Mesquite Flat Dunes. All sound pretty deadly. And it all was deadly hot. Truck door handles were almost to hot to use if left in the sun.
Made it all the way through with no overheating. Thanks to impressive Ford air conditioning.
Then on to hiway 395 and up to Lone Pine, home of many western movie sets, they say.
Again our choice campground, Whitney Portal, was full. A long drive up a steep and narrow road to find that out. It is the starting point for Mt. Whitney hikers, so probably often full. Impressive place, though.
Second choice, Lone Pine Campground, just down the hill from Portal was just fine.
Late arrivals like us are grateful to find an empty slot. Still, it’s never too late for snacks and dinner. Nice end to another long day.
