Located in southern California, Death Valley is one of the most otherworldly of America's natural wonders - an erie panorama of salt flats, scarred earth, and elevations.

Death Valley has rolling hills and steep mountains. It is also famous for Badwater, which at 282 feet below sea level is the lowest point in the Western Hemisphere. Badwater also happens to be the first checkpoint on the route.

Whether you're a competitive cyclist, Sunday rider, or novice, join us for a fantastic weekend and one incredible Ride. You'll be amazed at the satisfaction you'll find from challenging yourself and contributing to a cure for diabetes. We look forward to seeing you out there!

Death Valley History
The area where we'll be biking is also historic - actually, pre-historic. Geologists say its rock formations date back to the Pre-Cambrian era. Native Americans first settled here 9000 years ago. Back then, Death Valley actually had lakes, plentiful wildlife, and vegetation. But by the first century, time and weather had sculpted it into its majestic condition.

Death Valley got its name during the 1849 California Gold Rush. A few prospectors made their way through the area now known as Furnace Creek - and without ten-speed bikes or sports beverages at their disposal - the group had a rough trip. (Ironically, Furnace Creek is now Death Valley's main hospitality center and the site of our lodgings for the Ride).

In later days, Death Valley was the setting for the last scene of Eric von Stroheim's classic movie Greed, and the home of 20-Mule-Team Borax detergent, sponsor of 1950s TV show Death Valley Days, hosted by Ronald Reagan.

Death Valley Today
Despite its gruesome name, Death Valley has become a favored destination for nature lovers looking for uniquely American physical wonders. And you don't have to suffer 49er-style to see it: accommodations are excellent (especially at the Furnace Creek Ranch, which will be our home base during the Ride weekend). And the weather isn't even as scorching as its reputation suggests. While it's true that Death Valley was the site of the highest temperature ever recorded in America (134 degrees on July 10, 1913), the average high temperature of Death Valley on either of our Ride weekends can vary between low 80s to low 90s. But don't forget to bring a jacket because the desert evenings can dip into the 40s to cool you off. As the temperature can vary drastically, be sure to prepare yourself by beginning to hydrate even before you arrive.