Surprise in the Pahrump Area

We took a day trip with Barbara & Les Peterson to an area we were always curious about. We drove to Tecopa, Ca. which is about 40 miles from here. In the booming area of Tecopa and the surrounding hills is a place called China Ranch. This is a date farm located in the lower valley that seems to be part of Death Valley. Getting to China Ranch is pretty easy, but the last mile or so of the trip was on a dirt road that meandered downhill into a canyon. Speed limit 15mph and to heed it is wise. Arriving at the bottom of the canyon we were in for a pleasant surprise. Date Palm trees all over the place. A stream that they say runs all year long and supplies enough water for the trees, the store, some residences, and a bed and breakfast. We had the lunch we had brought and toured the trees and the gift shop. Still amazed at this place in the middle of the desert. We left and stopped at some hot water pools along the way and you could smell the chemicals in the water and see the salt and lime. We then stopped at the town of Shoshone, Ca. and went through the museum ad the country store. Diesel was $4.72 gallon. Didn't need any. We also stopped at some Indian digs along the hwy and had a photo op. Great Day. We all had a very good time and are still talking about trip.
Love t All,
Cris & Bob