Favorite

Death Valley ephemeral Lake Manly reappears, offering a rare sight in America’s driest region. Visit now to witness this natural wonder!

In the Western Hemisphere’s most arid and sweltering region, Death Valley, a vast saline body of water has recently emerged. This ephemeral water body, named Lake Manly in tribute to W. L. Manly, who valiantly guided the first group of European settlers through Death Valley in 1849, now spans the valley’s basin. This phenomenon is temporary, mirroring its previous appearance in 2005.

Following an extraordinary downpour in 2023, Lake Manly has reformed. Global travelers are encouraged to seize this fleeting opportunity, with most primary routes into Death Valley, such as California Route 190, remaining accessible. These roads lead to several renowned attractions including Zabriskie Point, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Ubehebe Crater, Artists Drive, Golden Canyon/Gower Gulch Trails, and Racetrack Road, among others.

Historically, Death Valley’s terrain was part of an extensive lake system during the last major Ice Age in North America. Approximately 10,000 years ago, as these lakes dissipated, they left substantial salt deposits that now constitute the valley’s floor. Beneath Death Valley lies an expansive underground aquifer, forming a natural oasis in the American landscape.

The Oasis at Death Valley, a hidden gem located off CA 190 within the vast 3.4-million-acre Death Valley National Park (the largest in the contiguous United States), thrives on these ancient waters. This secluded resort offers a range of amenities including naturally heated spring pools with an average temperature of 87 degrees, the world’s lowest elevation golf course according to the USGA, lush gardens with cascading bougainvillea, and a date palm grove nourished by spring water.

Established in 1927, the historic site comprises two accommodation options: The Inn at Death Valley and The Ranch at Death Valley, both family-friendly and recently rejuvenated with a $250 million investment.

Located just two hours from Las Vegas and four hours from Los Angeles, Death Valley offers a serene retreat from the fast-paced modern world to global travelers.

« Back to Page