Death Valley
Death Valley is a desert valley that contains the lowest point by elevation in North America. The valley is in eastern California, and the lowest point, in Badwater Basin of Death Valley, is 86 m (282 ft) below sea level.
Death Valley got its current name and reputation from prospectors of the California Gold Rush who crossed the valley on the way to the gold fields. Thirteen people died in one expedition of wagon trains.
Death Valley is also the hottest place in the United States and temperatures regularly rise above 40°C (104°F). While it is a desert the valley it has diverse habitats, and and it is now a part of the Death Valley National Park. A quote from the National Park website (2021 March):
In this below-sea-level basin, steady drought and record summer heat make Death Valley a land of extremes. Yet, each extreme has a striking contrast. Towering peaks are frosted with winter snow. Rare rainstorms bring vast fields of wildflowers. Lush oases harbor tiny fish and refuge for wildlife and humans. Despite its morbid name, a great diversity of life survives in Death Valley.
