Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/426101
high-effi ciency insulated windows and biodiesel-pow- ered lawnmowers. e "hottest place on earth" powers the largest so- lar photovoltaic energy system in American tourism, and provides 30 percent of the power for both Furnace Creek Ranch and the Inn. Guests can glimpse this vast, discreetly positioned solar farm through a date palm grove on the ranch property. Water, too, is conserved here. e resort's swim- ming pools provide recycled water for the golf course, palms and lawns throughout the complexes. "Our pools are naturally heated mineral water, spring-fed from the mountains," Nefsky explains. "We use minimal chlo- rine, so the pool is refreshed, drained and reloaded. We don't waste; we get multiple uses out of the same water source." e National Park Service is also on the case, with recycling bins just about everywhere you can drive. ey've also expanded boundaries to include wilder- ness areas and protect wildlife and historic petroglyphs with more limited driving access. Off -roaders object but it helps reduce carbon footprint and preserve land- mark sites. Crater, Castle and Crystals A er a peaceful night's sleep we headed out one of those deserted ends-at-the horizon roads to Ubehebe Crater, caused by an ancient maar volcano where groundwater exploded as it came into contact with magma, perhaps as recently as 300 years ago. e 600-foot deep crater is an alluring downward hike but an exhausting return climb. Easier is a 1.5-mile stroll along the rim to Little Hebe and back. Not far from here, Scotty's Castle, a mansion built by a Chicago insurance executive in the 1920s, is named for an aspiring gold miner, "Death Valley Scotty." A less-palatial version of Hearst Castle, it off ers 50-min- ute living history tours and an hour-long underground tour that explores the surprisingly advanced technolo- gy powering the castle. On our way back we had to stop at Badwater, 282 feet below sea level at the lowest end of Death Valley. Salt crystals shatter underfoot and pools of still, in- tensely mineral-laden undrinkable water refl ect the vast, hot sky. Nearby you can drive the narrow curves of Artist's Drive, where a full palette of colors spills across the rock in shades of pink, green, lavender, or- ange and yellow. Also close by is Zabriskie Point, where an easy trail leads to a spectacular view, particularly vivid at sunset (but closed to the public from 12/14 to 03/15). Whether you're a er inspiration, exploration or just plain relaxation, Death Valley's raw majesty is tough to beat. It's a true testament to the awesome power of nature. Getting there is half the fun. Find travel tips and nearby ghostly adventures at www.wholelife- magazine.com. All Photos by Jack Burke december/january 2014-'15 29