Ref: Summit Post
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Even the most arid environments host beautiful flowers.
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Scramble:
RT 4.0; 2.5 up. As we neared the end of our visit to Death Valley, we
decided to visit the information center in Stovepipe Wells to find out
if the access roads to Telescope Peak were soon re-opening. The ranger
informed us about prolonged access
restrictions due to the recent flash flood's devastation. After telling
him
we had travelled from Canada to climb Telescope Peak and escape
the cold, he recommended this objective as a consolation adventure.
Corkscrew Peak appeared worthy of a visit, and its proximity was
appealing. We decided to
travel light, donning running shoes and carrying very little. The
beginning of the hike meanders through the vast desert towards alluvial
features. Walking on sand and cobble amongst cacti was a different
experience; we kept watch for snakes and tarantulas, but we saw none.
Eventually, we reached a narrow canyon and some welcome shade. We
located the breach in the canyon wall and followed it to the terrain
above; the trail is more distinct as it climbs steadily toward the
summit. We reached the top in less than 3 hours. We
had a short break to enjoy the view then, we backtracked at a fast
pace. We met a young couple at the "The Hole in the Rock" and asked
them to take a picture of us; that was the only stop on our descent.
Back at the vehicle, we had enough time in the afternoon for a swim at
the Furnace Creek Resort. This scramble is easy; however, it would be
challenging in the heat of the summer. The ascent and the view will
leave you breathless!
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The objective from the side of the road.
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Opuntia basilaris, Beavertail cactus.
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Following the trail through the desert.
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At the entrance of a canyon.
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The canyon grants some shade.
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Interesting erosion in the canyon wall.
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A breach in the canyon wall leads to the terrain above.
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Ascending the narrow breach.
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Short climb out of the canyon.
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The trail is well-defined on the broad barren ridge.
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Eremalche rotundifolia, Desert Five-Spot; unfortunately the flower isn't fully opened to display its stunning red markings.
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Looking back as we begin to gain height.
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A little rocky nook along the ridge.
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Straightforward and pleasant.
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Badwater Basin, 86 meters below sea level, stands out in the desertic landscape.
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Fascinating alluvial surfaces and eroded mountains of the Amargosa Range.
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Approaching the summit block.
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Nearing the summit.
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Southern view of Badwater Basin nestled between the Black Mountains (left) and the Panamint Range on the right.
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Telescope Peak, 3,366 meters, is the highpoint of the rugged Panamint Range.
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South-eastern view from the top.
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To the east, Daylight Castle (right center) can be reached from Daylight Pass.
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The northern view includes taller peaks of the Grapevine Mountains.
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Mount Whitney in the distance west of us.
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Selfie in the "Hole in the Rock".
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| Back
to home page
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