WE'RE THE LAST ONE'S. DEATH VALLEY. RARE Lake Event. HDT BIG Rig Travel. 70 MPH Winds. RV Lifestyle

We didn't realize how fortunate we were on our timing...until a few days later when Death Valley National Park shut it down. We were the last to experience this epic event and it may not reappear for years. And that's why we had to come up here.
The opportunity to experience RARE lifetime events which we may never see in several generations is one aspect of fulltime RV travel that we enjoy. 70 mph winds at 3,000 feet elevation is nothing to sneeze at but we hope our SpaceCraft will hold up and keep us safe.
We boondock at The Pads so no chance of getting stuck and Matt's Off Road Recovery will not be needed on this go round.
We break out the kayak after 5 years and test it on a Lake Manly, a pluvial lake on Bad Water Basin in Death Valley NP, the hottest, lowest and driest point in North America is now home to a very temporary lake which will be gone in less than a month. So the time is now to experience this RARE event for the first time in our lives. Heck...for the first time in most everyone's lives!
We've come out West to enjoy a nice warm winter season and to experience some first time activities for us. Our trip has just begun but we are ready to experience it all. And wow! What an opportunity the Pineapple Express and Hurricane Hilary has provided us with to be able to enjoy water at the lowest point in North America! It's unheard of to see a lake this size in an area which normally gets less than 2 inches of rain per year.
We are not Snow Birds but we do like nice warm weather and heading west is the best.
We will raise our solar panels and brush them off to power our stay and experience these epic treasures of Mother Nature.
Come join our Facebook Group, Big Truck Big Travels to get more details on our travels such as Alaska itinerary, annual costs and such.
/ 739128034229745
#rvlife #spacecraft #fulltimerv #customrv #hdt #whataburger #hdtrailers #harvesthost #harvesthosts #campendium #wanderlust #boondocking #lg #rvroadtrip #traveltips #travelhacks #rv #travel #travelvlog #campgrounds #van #rvliving #rvcouple #rvliving #thankshanks #rvtravel #blm #roadtrip #deathvalley #deathvalleynationalpark #hurricane #epic
We like to "Switch it Up" between resorts and campgrounds and boondocking is always an option.
We draw inspiration from Keep Your Daydream KYD, Less Junk More Journey, Finding Our Someday and Changing Lanes. We normally travel in an HDT similar to KZbin channels Suite Travels and Watts on Wheels. I also get some ideas from the editing style of Happily Ever Hanks (Happilyeverhanks) #thankshanks and believe it or not, I actually learned something from MRBeast Mr Beast video's as well.
Our journey is the destination. We want to share in our experiences in our discovery of What's Next.
I get my music from:
Epidemicsound.com
Tracks:
Farewell brave Friend by Adriel Fair
Heartache in Heaven by Marc Torch
The One that Got Away by Thyra
World Joy by Saira Ridley
Amazon Shop (no extra charge to you)
A convenient way to see (or buy) the items you see in the video's which may help in your adventure.
www.amazon.com/shop/bigtruckb...
We use the TSD card for diesel fuel and save a bundle each time we fill up our Big Rig.
The big blue boards (XL version) we use sometimes to get us "un-stuck" is from:
Gotreads.com
Our Class C is built by Thor Motorcoach on a Ford F550 chassis. It's a production build Magnitude model XG32. We tow our red Jeep Wrangler Sahara behind it. We've made some modifications to it so that we can boondock comfortably. Lithium batteries, Victron 3000w multi-plus inverter, dual alternators charge while traveling and mods to the water system greatly enhance it's boondocking capabilities.
Our extreme completely custom 5th wheel is built on a semi-trailer chassis with air suspension and air brakes. Completely loaded it weighs 42,000 lbs rolling down the highway. And we do roll down the highway nearly every week. You see, we believe that if your home has wheels they should be used.
Vehicles:
2016 Volvo VNL780 "Voyager"
2016 Smart fortwo "Pathfinder"
2019 SpaceCraft Custom built semi-trailer 5th wheel "Orion"
2023 Thor Magnitude XG32 Class C "Curiosity"
2017 Jeep Wrangler Sahara "Artemis"
Power system:
3250 watts of solar with Panasonic panels
30.1 KWH of Lithium batteries
2- 4K watt Magnum Inverters deliver power as if we are on shore power
2- 4K watt 240v Cotek Inverters deliver additional power for our LG Mini split HVAC and stove
Coachnet is our roadside assistance company we use but hopefully we don't use them too often. LOL
We are not sponsored by Whataburger but I do enjoy them anytime I can get my hands on one. They used to be just out of Texas but they have expanded.
BIg Truck Big Travels video's are based on our personal experience and not meant nor portrayed as experts in anything we do or say. It's our life on the road and our opinions are not meant to be construed as advice. Enjoy life on the road.

[@SteveHorne]

Started my own drinking game, every time one of you said “wow”. Got drunk and didn’t see the ending…😂

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

😆 🤣 😂 that is sooo true! Hope you didn't have a hangover... that's a lot of shots!

[@c1dancer]

Dave is such a gentleman doing all of the paddling while his Lady rides leisurely across the waters of Lake Mannly

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

😎Thanks, Chris...but it's also good exercise! Plus sometimes it's easier too. She was going to be taking a lot of pics and video.

[@richardross3172]

Putting your feet in the Arctic Ocean and Lake Manly within a year? You 2 are living it!🎉

[@davidschmittsr.3121]

If you watch as the smart car and the mini cooper drive across in front of the camera, it looks like no one is driving. This was an incredible journey share. Such beautiful sunset pictures. Thank you for taking us along on your life “gambles” as you travel. Safe voyages!

[@timfeckley1689]

Smart car needs a roof rack!

[@timfeckley1689]

It’s so quiet because everything is dead 😂

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Indeed we are, thanks for sharing in our experiences. We were talking about that the other day about how surreal this year has been with the Arctic and Lake Manly. Pretty cool!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

That would make it too easy! 😎😂🤣

[@livedifferentlywiththeoily9917]

I saw your camper in Palm Desert and I❤it

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you so much. We really enjoy it too!

[@user-zo9cc8ko8r]

How incredible that you were able to kayak and the views. Thank you for sharing it with us.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks for watching. The experience was amazing!

[@williamsneedjr4129]

I can't thank you enough for sharing this video because I can see the world through your videos

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Our pleasure, William. We're excited to have you along on the journey. Thank you for spending the time to watch the channel.

[@wrenchleague9801]

What amazing luck to get that opportunity then they close it down perfect timing … great videos from you guys yiu are pros….📽️

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks 👍Really appreciate your comments. It was an incredible opportunity and super timing. we were very fortunate it worked out that way.

[@karenhoward7617]

I love your videos. However, the kayaking in the salty lake was amazing. To be the last to do so will be one of your most memorable, I'm sure . My house was quiet for a few minutes, and the timing was perfect for your 360⁰. The quiet ,the view ,the salty water, I felt like I was there too,in the kayak experiencing it with you. 😌 I'm so thankful that you take us on these journeys with you. 🙂💛

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Wow! How cool was that... from your living room, no less! Great timing on the noise stopping! Glad you enjoyed it.

[@stevebak6664]

Sondra and Dave will probably never see this but if you do, I have a few comments: 1. I love your videos. I live vicariously through them knowing I will probably never get to experience such things. I am just glad someone gets to. 2. I love your humor. You seem like good people, people I wish I had in my life. It is refreshing to see what a marriage should look like. You both seem to enjoy each other and what beautiful blessing that is. 3. Sondra takes very nice images. Photography was a passion of mine and I know what it takes to capture beautiful images. Most people don’t. I do know and Sondra does very well. 4. Your videos are top notch productions. I can see you go through great lengths to create them. I love the music you add as well. 5. Dave is industrious, hats off to him organizing these trips and dealing with the unexpected. And Dave, if you are listening, I did just subscribe. You should be happy. You have another subscriber. You should celebrate by treating yourself to a Wannaburger. Hehe. God bless you and I wish you many more safe and beautiful travels.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you. Well... we do see every comment... and we respond to each one. We really appreciate your time watching the channel and your comments too! Sondra loves to take pictures and goes through each one to select the best. The videos are for our memories so we want to make them as nice as possible but we're excited so many people enjoy them and we're excited to have you along on the journey. 😊 Thank you very much. We deeply appreciate your thoughts on the channel.

[@TexasRoadrunners]

submarine- LOL Thanks for sharing.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Glad you enjoyed it, just a little humor...very little... 😆 🤣 Thanks 😄

[@christygr]

This was an incredible video. I had heard about the water in the lake but hadn’t seen any pictures until yours. Such a special experience for the two of you. You did an excellent job of documenting the once in a lifetime experience. I loved all the scenic views of Death Valley as well. Well done friends. As always I will look forward to next week’s video. Safe travels.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you, Christy. So glad you're along on the journey to experience this with us. It was a very surreal few hours on the water...and salty too! 🤔😯😎🤣

[@277mitchell]

Beautiful views you too are kind of adorable you are enjoying life together you both love doing what you are doing. I can only dream of that when I retire some day. Thank you. I am living my life through you. May you have Many Many more adventures.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Our pleasure! Glad you're along on the journey. I think we're busier in retirement than we were when we worked!

[@yvonnekneeshaw2784]

HOTTEST DRIEST LOWEST point in North America 😮 Timing is everything. Reflections gorgeous. Stickers & a boat seem to be a common theme 🇨🇦 ❤ PS love Sondra’s facial expressions

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Hey Yvonne, thanks for watching and joining the journey with us. We think one for the ages! Stickers and a boat...what more does one need?!? 🤔🤣😂😎

[@user-jz3qq5gr6g]

Thanks for sharing your adventure.Hi from 🇨🇦

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks for watching! We love visiting Cali...so many cool things to see.

[@craigwesson7913]

I Am Amazed that the lake didn't dry up before you got the kayak out on the lake.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

We were too! We thought it would be long gone but it stuck around until we got there!

[@zachmepham1384]

Hi im watching March 7th and they say you cant kayak or go out anymore. During the windstorm the lake was spread out and put it down to depth of 1 feet. So you guys were so blessed to be able to go out there and spend time kayaking. Loved this video. Awesome!!!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

I know... very fortunate. I saw the news several days after we boated on it and couldn't believe my eyes!

[@mtsky-tc6uw]

wonderhussy and her friend went kayaking over a month ago there--she lives in tecopa and has her website

[@badgerpa9]

There was a volcano that erupted under the ocean a while back and it put millions of tons of water in the atmosphere so they expect more water and rain for at least another year. You should see if Sarah Jane would meet up, she may like to video your rig but also could help you see a couple mines. Wonderhussy is her channel. That salt water float looked awesome. Corn shocks is what you meant for the bundle of corn stalks to dry. Fun video hope you guys stay safe and healthy.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Yes, that's it! Corn shocks! Could not think of it! Thank you

[@banditone7896]

That's not a lake...that's brine. I'm sure the kayak is extra buoyant out there 😉

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

😆 🤣 We could have nearly walked on top it was soo salty and buoyant!

[@elijames3041]

Drive safe

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you. We always try to keep it between the lines.

[@dashhoundlover2837]

ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL WOW !! LOVE THE MUSIC 👍

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you very much!

[@thomashendron4356]

glad to see you got the kayak inflated before the lake evaporated, winning!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

😆 🤣 it was close!

[@CarolStJohn-ev9ry]

You two are so organized and obviously have a lot of fun. I also learn a lot about places I've never been. I really look forward to your Thursday videos!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks, Carol. We try to be organized and prepared...it always helps to be lucky though!

[@jamesbryant4784]

My wife and I kayaked Lake Manly 2 days in a row. We were camping at Furnace Creek campground. 2 days later due too high winds, the lake at moved 2 miles to the north. Crazy place.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Wow! You were very fortunate as were we and you made it through the wind too! Cool place.

[@user-wherethereisway65]

Omg..I am living my. Dream threw you guys.What a blessing to live. Life..YOUR WAY..Enjoy

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you very much 😊

[@zizzyzoot7033]

❤ Awesome photography, as usual

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you so much 😀

[@DebraKopera]

What a awesome experience kayak in Death Valley at Lake Manly Thank you for sharing your trip

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks, Debra for watching. It was very surreal for us.

[@sharonking9862]

We have Sand Dunes on the Western Slope in Colorado also. What unique scenery❣️❣️

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you. We've been to the Great Sand Dunes National Park and they are so cool. Beautiful area.

[@erinbroderick2819]

I went to Death Valley National park Tuesday. The weather was nice. It wasn't crowded. Glad I got to see the lake.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Cool. You witnessed a rare event.

[@nikkid7838]

Another wonderful video!! Looking forward to y’all’s next adventure. Safe travels

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks so much!

[@roybrochu5409]

I would say that had to be a once in a lifetime experience kayaking on lake Manly in Death Valley.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Oh yeah... so surreal... and weird too. Thanks

[@marcomorissette7940]

Wow very amazing trip you are doing being able to see water in the Lake and the view from Dante View when there is water in the lake is wow!❤ thanks again

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you so much 👍Marco. It was truly a special few days for us. Glad you're along on the journey.

[@stephaniebriggs8332]

You guys have been to so many places but this your best one❤

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks, Stephanie. We really love DVNP. Our first visit several years ago we were not expecting much...we thought it would be just a big desert! But, wow, were we surprised! It's now one of our fav National Parks!

[@pennysaufley8974]

Lucky ducks !! Such great timing! Artist drive is my favorite. Lewis’s is Scotty’s Castle. Thanks for a wonderful video!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Our pleasure! Thanks. Scottys is still closed... one of these days we'll see it.

[@stephanleslie]

How deep at the center, thanks for giving us this once in a life time adventure!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Glad you enjoyed it! It was 2 feet deep... then 2 days later it was 1 foot in parts... not many parts though.

[@kennisjarvis8105]

Wonderful video. Loved the reflections on the lake.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you very much! Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks

[@Theo8863]

The Great Salt Lake in Utah is the same way. I’ve swam in it and you float. So much salt the water is white. Wash stations available also.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

That's great about the wash stations...I had to bring my own! We camped on Antelope Island...in May...beautiful area but not crazy about the gnats!

[@sylvaintherrien6469]

Your canadien friend love your vidéo perfect rig air ride on everything !!! Sick of the frame flex everywhere on all charnels of rv You are the best channel thks for your vidéos Merci

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

😆 Thank you... no frame flex here! 😆 Glad you like them and really appreciate the comments.

[@wanderingwilloughbys1806]

Interesting, been to Death Valley many times and never seen the lake with water! Thanks for sharing!! Glad you got into TT. Hope you do an Ariel shot I would love to see which site you got. Last time we were there they put us all the way in the back VERY tight and you would Never be back there for sure!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

It is super tight. We were fortunate to get a site up near the front. There will be aerial reconnaissance! 😆

[@dianet9376]

Always ❤watching you guys. The places you go are really cool and just traveling no selling product just awesome pictures and places. Thank you for that. 😊

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

You're very welcome...yeah, selling product on our channel is not a "thing" for us. No sponsors either...just us traveling down the road. Glad you enjoy it.

[@marychristie6194]

Very neat-looking forward to going to Death Valley in April 🎉🇺🇸

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

It's a beautiful area and so much to see and do. Titus Canyon, the Racetracks, etc...Enjoy!

[@ariverstonesthrowaway]

How amazing to be able to Kayak on Lake Manly! So happy you folks are experiencing so many "once in a lifetime" types of experiences. Love to see those boondocking spots!! You both are our scouts for places we will eventually visit - our list is getting bigger not smaller!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

😆 that's great news on the list...I think 🤔?!? 😆 Super cool experience and glad you're along on the journey. 😊

[@Non_Of_U_business]

Great update...Guys!...Breaking NEWS! Las Vegas has just opened it's first What-A-Burger 2 story building...Feb 7th. Safe Travels!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Oh yeah! Dinner, anyone?!?

[@pedromaldonado5566]

Amazing video of death valley

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you, Pedro. We really enjoy the area.

[@user-et5et9bb4b]

A beautiful video. I love the beauty of Death Valley and Lake Manly. What an amazing trip you two are having. This is the way to see our country. I loved the Alaska videos. Yall be safe.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you very much. We're very fortunate to be able to share our experiences with everyone.

[@kbVACArestatecarsnrvs]

Wow, concrete pads in the middle of DV! What a score! Windy conditions, not so much. But you had a beautiful and unique place to be. Surprised you didn't find the Oasis spots there. Oh, have you heard about Cerro Gordo? It's way up where the snow happens with a view of (in a vast distance) the lake. There's a channel here you should check out if you haven't already. The old mining town is still in tact (but not nearly what it was way back) and they are building a new hotel there. I'm sure it will look old to blend in. Happy Trails hopefully to Vegas and be very glad you missed the most recent snow storm in the Sierra Nevada!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks, KB. Yes, we are very glad to miss that storm...dumped a lot of snow up in the mtns. Haven't heard of Cerro Gordo...have to check it out. Appreciate your comments each week.

[@zLigHt44]

​@@bigtruckbigtravelsDon't you worry about leaving the RV in such a isolated area?

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

@@zLigHt44 nope! We've never had an issue with theft or vandalism... now we do have security cameras on the rig... but we try to choose areas that we feel are safe.

[@dashhoundlover2837]

BEAUTIFUL VIDEO YOU GUYS ARE AMAZING SUCH A BLESSING ! THANK YOU GUYS BE BLESSED BE SAFE !! ENJOY !!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks so much. Really appreciate your comments and your time watching the channel. 😃

[@ptwhd]

Thanks for sharing 😊😊😊

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks for watching 😃😀

[@brendanoleary5885]

It's Friday 😂 Great vid guys, you have to admit pun generation of Death Valley is tricky. We have a similar type of natural phenomenon in Aus called Lake Ayre. What an incredible experience. Safe travels beautiful people 😊

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks, Brendan. I'll bet Lake Ayre is very unusual as well given the circumstances. We take the puns as they're given... some weeks the "harvest" is better than others! Aloha

[@HSTWXMAN]

So happy to see this.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you very much.

[@mimi5117]

Way cool thanks for sharing this with us and all the info about it. Loving my armchair travels. Smiles and hugs from the North OK Valley in Sunny 40f BC. NO snow right now =)

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Wow! Nice weather for March... hope spring is early!

[@aeconsulting1]

Awesome, informative video. I wanted to comment that just you are pedaling on the kajak but you answered that question. It may have been a once in a lifetime event, very nice.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Just me paddling... water was sooo salty! Very cool experience. 😎 Thank you.

[@Over65Retired]

Amazing I never knew about this My wife and I are loving all of your travels

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you, Andy. We enjoy sharing our experiences and glad you're along on the journey. 😊

[@annagallegos1430]

WOW...amazing! Safe travels🙏

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

We really appreciate your time watching the channel and are excited to have you along on the journey. Thanks for being a part of the story.

[@louannphillips1179]

Just wanted David to know that because of him we had our First WhatABurger the other day on the Auburn Campus in Auburn AL. It was good! Loved the Death Valley video also🥰

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Oh yeah! Whataburger is yummy. What did you have? The Sweet and Spicy Bacon Burger? #1 Whataburger? Patty Melt? Glad you also enjoyed the video!

[@louannphillips1179]

@@bigtruckbigtravels Ronnie had regular hamburger and I had bacon cheeseburger…..you mentioned blue cheese something? Gonna try that next time😁

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

@louannphillips1179 sounds good. Whataburger does not have blue cheese now, they used to as a special.

[@terrymathis4213]

Wow! That's incredible. I actually see the salt in the water. Lifetime experience. It b cool to put a floating blow up tent out there.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

It was amazing. Thank you

[@saigon9143]

Love you guys and very good video ,thanks !!! 💐💐🌿♥️👌

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you so much! We're excited to have you along on the journey. 😊 😍

[@yvetteneshilokotz2655]

What an amazing video! Thanks for sharing. Wow!! The last to kayak the lake before it was closed. I love the still photos too. 🎉💜

[@yvetteneshilokotz2655]

Paul and I just realized that we are or were only 38 minutes from LV Thousand Trails. We are spending March at the Nellis Air Force base famcamp - Desert Eagle.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

We didn't realize it until a few days later when it was announced after the winds. Talk about timing! Thank you.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Wow! So close. You get to see the Blue Angels fly. Sweet!

[@yvetteneshilokotz2655]

@@bigtruckbigtravels The Thunderbird are Air Force and the Blue Angels are Navy. Yes, we see and hear the Thunderbirds practicing. Lots of jets flying as Nellis is also a training for aviators getting ready to deploy - called red or green flag. Red flag is flying over 50 flights to simulate sorties. So it can be loud for a portion of the day. We thought you might find the unofficial museum called the Threat Museum as it is a collection of enemy crafts - air and land.

[@k-mparker]

What an awesome video!!!!! Thoroughly enjoyed it!!! I wonder if all that salt contains most of the essential minerals for the human body🤔🤔🤔. If the kayak was yellow, you guys woulda had a yellow submarine😂😂…Dad joke 4 Dave. 👍😃🍻

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

😆 yes, I was wishing it was yellow that day! I'm thinking it contains lots of minerals... not sure they are ALL good though! Thanks

[@lindataylor4122]

I am going to share this with my brother-in-law Radek, who has a home just to the north outside of where you are near Bishop in Paradise. He is an avid 🎿 and hiker.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Nice area. Lots to do, I hope he finds it useful and interesting. Thanks 😄

[@pm26074]

Awesome photography! I look forward and enjoy your videos.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you, Phil. Glad you enjoyed it and excited to have you along on the journey. 😊

[@michaelkawa8155]

Hello this is Michael from Bethlehem, PA. I asked you about your weather station a few weeks ago, then in today's video you showed you had a 78 mph gust. You said it was hitting you broadside; does that mean it was hitting the long side of your truck? Which I think it does mean that. Well, if you were to experience 100 mph winds or more - Could that topple your rig? I don't think you'd want that. I know you parked this day so that you were lined up on the pad site. But, if you came to an area where the weather said winds of about 100 mph or more, you should consider parking with your rear facing where the wind is coming from. Well, you could face your front into the wind, BUT, if the wind is strong enough to pick up sticks or stones, they could hit your windshield possibly cracking it. you for the beautiful views. Have a great day and week!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you, Michael. Yes, broadside is the long side of the rig. I don't think 100 mph winds would topple us... but then I don't really want to find out! Lol

[@LaurieNCooper]

Great content.. beautiful life!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

We really appreciate your time watching the channel and are excited to have you along on the journey. Thanks for being a part of the story.

[@section3253]

It looks like your campsite is the former Valley Crest mobile home park set up for the employees (and families) of American Borate Company working at the Billie Mine. I worked there in the summer of 1982, as an intern mining engineer while I was still in school. They had another, much larger, townsite over near the processing plant. My wife and I visited Death Valley about 7 years ago and I got to show her the slab of concrete that was next to the trailer I lived in. Each trailer a big shed roof off the side with tables and chairs on the slab. It was extremely hot during the summer, and we would sit out there at night and enjoy the “cool” late evening temperatures (mid to upper 90’s, or warmer). I hope to return someday with our trailer and camp on that slab.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Wow! Thank you so very much for this info! We searched and couldn't find info on the slabs. Figured it was mobile homes but couldn't figure out WHY the location! You have answered this nagging question for us. Thank you. Every time we stay there we look for clues. Ok... now we have questions! There is a loop as you enter which looks like a propane station...or possibly an office? We owe you a Whataburger!

[@vickimiller6991]

Thanks guys. Absolutely loved this video. All your videos are great, but this one is outstanding. Thanks again . Looking forward to the next video.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Appreciate the comment, Vicki. We love the Death Valley area. The lake was epic and so much fun.

[@elzabethmorgan8020]

Yay!! You made it!! Another stunning video! Thanks for sharing this unique experience!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Whew! Thank you!

[@ireneluciow455]

I just watched this video and really enjoyed it as this was one of the first stops we made in 1990 when we began our full-timeing. Just loved your kayaking in death valley. I have many pictures as videoing didnt exist for us of course "back then". Keep on "trucking".

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks. Small world. Death Valley is beautiful.

[@Bunny-cz5wo]

Thank you sharing your adventure ❤

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Our pleasure! Really appreciate the comments and your time watching the channel. 😃

[@wolverinealaska6937]

with a change in the title this video may go viral

[@mrsbigtruckbigtravels726]

We'd love for the video to go viral. What would you change it to? 😊

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Maybe... not sure what the title should be. A little help?!? Thanks 😄

[@DaleWheeldon]

another interesting and great video thankyou for all you do very much appreciate your time and you

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Glad you enjoyed it, Dale. Appreciate you sticking with us and tuning in each week.

[@joannerichards9353]

Awesome , thanks for sharing

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks for watching! It was truly a rare event.

[@tonyjohnson3396]

Dave wants to be back in the Arctic. lol. Sondra get that man a boat.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Oh yeah! Cruise up the Inside Passage, that's what we'll do! Thanks, Tony. Stay warm up there!

[@davidmara4149]

As always your trips are incredible. So so enjoy living your trip seeing your fabulous sites. Keep up your travels and stay safe.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks so much! Glad you enjoyed it.

[@heathergunn6570]

Really enjoyed your video of Death Valley. We were there 10 years ago....no water then!! We talked to you, David, in Palm Desert while Sondra was having a shower getting ready for the Thurs night street fair. We are in Wilderness Lakes, then heading back to Palm Desert for 2 weeks and then heading back home to Canada. Safe travels to Las Vegas.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Hey, Heather, great talking with you at PS. VillageFest was fun. Hope your travels to Wilderness Lakes is smooth and the flooding at the park did not impact you. Thanks for stopping by.

[@heathergunn6570]

@bigtruckbigtravels Flooding did not impact us. We found a site far away from the flooded area. Unfortunately, a 5th wheel was totally destroyed by fire while here. Scary to watch. We went to the street fest the next Thurs. Totally enjoyed it. Looking forward to your vlog on Thurs.

[@krisklopf1901]

Kayaking Death Valley!! Cool! So is the Kayak David's boat????😂

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

🤣😎Very funny...have you been talking to Sondra lately?!? She wants it to be "the boat"...but I'm holding out for a slightly more capable one!

[@donwalker9904]

You know I FULLY support the boat thing 😊❤️ Great stuff again guys! Have fun 😃

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Oh yeah! Got my back! But only if there is a Blackstone on it...eh?!? 😆

[@Mr.andMrs.Mike1217]

That kayak ride with you guys was amazing and so peaceful! That was definitely a once in a lifetime adventure. Glad you guys had the chance to do that! What a cool scenic area! Thanks for taking us along!❤️~Wendy

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Our pleasure! Glad you enjoyed it, Wendy.

[@nursinghomeman8687]

I think you are very lucky I love your videos.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

You are so kind, thank you. 😊

[@adriannurse1502]

How awesome! Kayaking in the Mojave Desert. Well done guys! 🙂

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you. It was awesome... and incredible timing!

[@barbaracarlson7402]

Thank you! What an amazing and incredible experience your visit to Death Valley must have been. I had no idea it was so beautiful it was. Maybe our rv will make it there one day!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

So very scenic. I hope you can get there one day! Thanks for watching.

[@MaryWehmeier]

Wow I’ve been wanting to see it for a longer time than the news clips. This makes me envious we haven’t taken the motor home out there.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

It was truly beautiful, Mary and such a special rare event. Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks 😄

[@Sushi2735]

Whoa! This is so cool! But, boy is that water nasty! Glad you didn’t go swimming in it, makes you wonder what stuff could be released from the dirt besides the salt!! Creepy stuff that has been lying dormant in the dirt 😱😱😱😱😱 Now that IS one for the books! Loved it!! Not a dessert girl myself but you make it fun. How is the Snake, BitingCritter situation out there????? British Columbia is quiet so is the Oregon Coast 😅😅😅😅 Loved the music selections this week!😊

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks for watching. We haven't seen an slithery types around... may be too early. We were definitely not swimming in it!

[@k9luv3]

That is one heck of a rig!!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks. We enjoy it. It's home.

[@astony99]

Hey, We had seen one of your videos a couple weeks back. We were camping at Furnace Creek campground during that crazy windstorm. It wasn't a fun time really. There weren't any sites available on Saturday, so we were looking for a place to boondock and pulled into the pads. We played with our dogs throwing the ball until they were tired, and then decided to continue on back home towards Vegas, because the wind was too much.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Glad you found the Pads. It was definitely breezy that day!

[@krazedkamper]

What at epic experience!!! Thank you for sharing!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Our pleasure! Thank you for watching the channel.

[@krazedkamper]

Always a pleasure!

[@dianeweaver8379]

Great video, as always, though you might have milked the Kayaking in Death Valley a bit too much. :-D While you were in the area, it would been nice to take Pathfinder to visit the Cerro Gordo Ghost Town and say Hi to Brent Underwood.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

I'll look into Cerro Gordo, thanks. Kayak segment was a bit long for our usual format but it was such a unique experience for us that we didn't want to cut it short.

[@tobydog247]

You need to get some T shirts "I kayaked on Lake Manly" and see if anybody reacts when you're out and about.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

I like that! Hmmm... may look into that, cool idea. Thanks

[@user-jl6tu8vy9s]

Wow amazing this place. It chills🥰🥰🥰

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

It really is! It was amazing. Thank you. 😃

[@jeannealex2560]

Hi guy's...that was neat...never been to death valley...we enjoyed the movie from our natural position...lol...thanks again...stay safe...J&A2ofus

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

😆 I love the "natural position" comment. So true! Appreciate you taking the time to watch the channel while relaxing!

[@jeannealex2560]

@@bigtruckbigtravels 🤣🤣👍👍

[@kenhelmers2603]

What a great experience!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you. We were very fortunate on the timing and weather. Such an unforgettable experience to be a part of and to enjoy. It was a special moment.

[@steveegbert3554]

Great video, Death Valley is so amazing.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks. One of our favorite areas.

[@willsoto6572]

Give David a boat! Possible names, Jules Verna - Nautilus or Voyage to the😅 bottom of the Sea- Seaview and from my ever first anime ROBOTECH the Daedalus. I got your back, Big DK.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Oh man...I really like those names. Nautilus & Seaview are near the top of the "boat name list". Thank you. 😊

[@ileanaadams6874]

Great video. Thank you.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

You're welcome and glad you're along on the journey. 😊

[@mercywas]

Great video

[@mercywas]

We loved the campsite location and price.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

We really appreciate your time watching the channel and are excited to have you along on the journey. Thanks for being a part of the story.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Yes, it's a great spot.

[@canyonquilter]

You guys are great!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you. 😃 Appreciate your time watching the channel.

[@pauldean3935]

Thanks for another fun video. I paddled Manly later on that same day. What luck we both had to get in on the last day before they closed it! If you haven't yet done so, you might like to hit Ubehebe Crater and the Golden Canyon - Gower Gulch loop trail on your next visit. Each of those could be the main event for a full day of exploring.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks, Paul, and yes, we were both very fortunate on our timing! We've visited the crater, the kilns, Racetracks and Titus Canyon on previous visits. Always a fun time. Thanks

[@raym9068]

That looked so cool on the water

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

It was super cool. 👌

[@steveddavis]

Cool adventure. I read about them stopping the launching of watercraft, glad you got a chance to go out on it. On menus, one place/one thing - want something different, go to a different restaurant. David needs a boat 👊

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks... and I definitely need a boat! 😆 🤣

[@maineweddingdestinations8659]

So awesome

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you

[@RamblinRoadies]

I have the same Bryce Canyon shirt as David.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Oh yeah. It's a nice one...and we really like Bryce Canyon too!

[@linniebb836]

Amazing to see a Lake in the Valley! BTW in Vegas, it's probably cheaper to stay at a hotel with free parking for your rig, than to stay at the camp ground.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

True except that the Thousand Trails in Vegas is no charge for us, part of our membership. It's just really tight!