Death Valley National Park, California (May 2024)

Death Valley National Park, located in Eastern California and extending into Nevada, is a vast and strikingly diverse desert landscape known for its extremes. Established as a national park in 1994, it covers over 13'650 km², making it the largest national park in the contiguous United States. The name originates from the harrowing experiences of pioneers who traversed the area in the mid-19th century, with many suffering from the harsh and unforgiving conditions.
The park is renowned for its extreme temperatures, holding the record for the highest air temperature ever recorded on Earth at Furnace Creek, at 56.7° C in July 1913. Despite its arid conditions, Death Valley hosts a variety of ecosystems and a surprising array of wildlife adapted to its harsh environment, including bighorn sheep, desert tortoises, and numerous bird species.
Geologically, Death Valley is a treasure trove, featuring unique formations such as the vast salt flats of Badwater Basin (02:25), the lowest point in North America at 86 m below sea level. The park also boasts striking features like the colorful Artist's Palette (03:55) and the towering sand dunes of Mesquite Flat (05:59).