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I'm lucky enough to get one of the Furnace Creek campsites in the athel trees

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fc2-000024-athels-from-tent.jpg Me, hot but content, sitting in the shade of the athel treesThumbnailsA view of the athels and their shade from my tentMe, hot but content, sitting in the shade of the athel treesThumbnailsA view of the athels and their shade from my tentMe, hot but content, sitting in the shade of the athel treesThumbnailsA view of the athels and their shade from my tentMe, hot but content, sitting in the shade of the athel treesThumbnailsA view of the athels and their shade from my tentMe, hot but content, sitting in the shade of the athel treesThumbnailsA view of the athels and their shade from my tent

The thermometer at the campground entrance showed 105 degrees F, so shade is a valuable commodity here today. I drank almost a gallon of water, most of it very warm, during the 20-mile ride from Stovepipe Wells to Furnace Creek.

I'm hoping that the campground won't be full tonight, with the heat having discouraged visitors. So far, so good. Parts of the Furnace Creek area have already closed down for the hot summer when there are fewer park visitors.

I've been told that tomorrow is supposed to have record-breaking heat for the day--close to 110 degrees. I'd like to stay longer, but I'm planning my escape.

I've enjoyed meeting the challenge of riding in 100+ degrees so far, but I'm not sure I'm ready for 110 degrees so soon?