The Valley of Death

Death Valley
We drive through the valley of death
In air conditioned cars
Stopping for snapshots
And a pull from our soft drinks

As if it were
A theme park ride

And it is

Unless we leave the highway
Then, Death Valley it is
A sea of dry heat
And not a drop of water
In sight

Nature humbles challengers
And those who take her lightly
Caring not a whit
For the fate of either

Death Valley
California, United States of America

Taken during travels, 1997

In response to this week’s One Word Photo Challenge: dry.

Does it get any drier than this? The valley floor is 86 meters (282 feet) below this sign.