Running Death Valley

The Dunes are beautiful and photogenic, especially at sunset – but they are much harder to hike than they look, and those big dunes are not just over the next hillock!Hike with extreme care, take plenty of water, and plan for at least two hours if you intend to get to the biggest dunes.

Running Safety: 0/10 – just don’t.

Home to the lowest point in the United States, at 282 feet below sea level. After half a mile of well-trodden pathway, the true nature of the salt pan reveals itself – brittle salt formations that perch atop scalding water. As always, bring water and a vigilant crew member! You will not be visible, so carry flares and a walkie-talkie.

Remember that heat exhaustion happens in minutes. Don’t run five miles out – you might not make it back. Allow yourself a mile if you must, to experience the heat and solitude!

Running Safety: 1/10 – you’re on your own, buddy.

Borax mining was never glamorous, seldom successful, and probably didn’t make the 20-mule teams very happy.But at Harmony you can see some of the remnants of an 1883 mine and its equipment – an easy 2-mile jaunt down the street from Furnace Creek, on a paved footpath if you happen to be in the mood.

Running Safety: 9/10 – hot, but on a well-traveled and paved trail. Crew can meet you at the Harmony parking lot.

Zabriskie Point is the bustling tourist center of Death Valley – but it’s worth the crowds for the view.Colorful rock formations leap from the ground, glowing in vibrant hues at sunrise and sunset (although they can be lost in full sun). Below is Gower Gulch, leading to Golden Canyon – a wonderful run if you can read a map properly.

Running Safety: 4/10 – Short but steep, and don’t turn an ankle on loose rock.