The Racetrack Playa, Death Valley National Park, California

The Racetrack Playa is a popular Death Valley destination for many visitors. Ice panels and melting ice along with slick watery clay on the ground and high winds create a blend of motion where mysterious rocks move across the playa. Some of these rocks have moved in excess of 1,000ft. There is ongoing research on this anomaly — the latest science suggests ice sheets forming under the rocks combined with high winds provides the force.

After Heart of Stone Canyon we headed out to the Playa to catch the sunset — arriving just as the sun started to set. The color array patterns were stunning and plenty of photographers with tripods were scattered across the playa. It's a great place but I've found there are other playas in Death Valley that are a bit more interesting. That said — I recommend a visit. Come with the right vehicle for 25 miles of washboarded rocky road.