Death Valley, California

 

It is the hottest and driest of the national parks in the United States. It also features the second-lowest point in the Western Hemisphere and the lowest point in North America at Badwater, which is 282 feet (85.5 m) below sea level. It is home to many species of plants and animals that have adapted to this harsh desert environment.
 
Check out 13 more images of Death Valley in California after the jump.