Furnace Creek Ranch, Death Valley
 

has anybody stayed there?
what's it like and what is there to do there?

It's been several years ago, but we enjoyed it--we went for a few days just to explore Death Valley. When we were there the "ranch" was a nice motel, with the other buildings looking like something out of the old west. There is a golf course there and not too far away is the Furnace Creek Resort--supposedly very nice. We went into Death Valley from the North from Las Vegas, and stopped to tour Scotty's Castle. It is worth the stop. DO NOT go to Furnace Creek/Death Valley from now until late Sept or Oct. the temp can go to 130!! When ever you go take plenty of water!!! You can drive all around Death Valley, stop, hike some, explore and look---and wonder how any of the pioneers ever got across it.

Agree with the above and add: Death Valley has some great 4X4 driving. Best to go with a group of vehicles and must take a CB radio, spare tires, and extra water. In spring there is actually water and wildflowers. Happy trails!

Being English and so possibly a little crazy we visited it last July on our way back from Arizona to San Francisco. It was very hot but we found it a less unpleasant heat than Palm Springs because there was always a breeze, albeit a hot one! Motel was compfortable, scenery really unusual & sunset over desert magic. We had wonderful dinner at the Furnace Creek Resort, excellent food.

The Ranch is ok but if you can possibly afford it, stay at the Furnace Creek Inn. It used to close in May but I believe it is open this year with summer rates. It overlooks the dessert and has the most wonderful spring fed swimming pool.