My dad fell in love the with the place in the early 70's and he took the family there several years with our little tow-along trailer. Sometimes we'd go a mile and he'd pull over for another picture. Breathtaking beauty! One stop in the middle of nowhere we stopped to fix lunch and two Burros walked up. Dusty as heck, but gentle...asking for help. We fed them a couple loaves of bread and gave them most of our water. They were OK with gentle head-scratches--I was 10-12 years old and it still sticks with me how gentle they were. Last trip there with dad was ~1985 and it was a wonderful week of re-visiting the area. Super-glad you got to visit with your dad--its amazing country! Thanks for sharing this video! Time for me to get back down there!
thank you for sharing🤍 mom skipped my school a couple times (the 70's) but woke me up super early, she brought apples, lettuce, carrots etc, we got breakfast at McD's or Jack in the Box & she drove out to Ice Box Canyon or such & wed go hiking. Most times wed run into burro's, prob because back then it was not built up (Las Vegas/Red Rock) I too remember it like it was yesterday. Always sweet, gentle, soft beauties, I looked forward to running into them. memories of a lifetime. many blessings
Cerro Gordo Road is a Public Road and the public has right of way to drive on it, "NO Board approval" required. The mine itself is Privately owned so you must stay on the road while driving by the mine.
Wow. That wasn’t Brett’s voice but absolutely was speaking for him. I use to be a Huge fan and supporter from his first video when it was made. His first fall my mother and I drove to Lone Pine stayed the night and the next day went to the store and purchased aprx.$300.00 worth of food supplies and water. We took it up to him ( no sign not to enter) and when we got there I asked if Brett was available. They told me no. Which was cool we just wanted to leave to supplies and see the town from our car. I left all the goods on his porch with a note and my email and telephone number stating if he ever would welcome volunteers I would love to be notified and attend. The next video or so he stated he wanted to get names and emails from people who wanted to volunteer etc. Long story short I have never been contacted or notified for any events. I even purchased merchandise to support him. Now this rude phone contact, imo, is strike two. I hardly watch any of his videos anymore because I now see his hand always out with promises of being welcome to visit CG only to be turned away and welcomed for free labor only. Very disappointing 👎🤨🤨
Wow! That’s really terrible and wonder what is going on with the entire story. That was awesome of you taking supplies up there to him like that although it seemed unappreciated.
They burned down the town,now the are building a motel,they have dug a lot of the original soil,the people that maintained it before him were super nice and did their best to preserve it,this corporation has come in with a heavy hand and disturbed everything
@@dougtodd305 I went up after it burned in October of the same year. He moved up in March, we knew he would need supplies for the winter(we use to live in Tahoe)and we figured he wouldn’t be stocked up so we brought up big bags of rice, beans even some good Whiskey, tons of water(approx 100 gallons+) and everyday things like peanut butter and jelly, soups, etc. I kept watching even after feeling bad after I never received an email and everytime he says he was planning a “volunteer workday” I would email and still never hear back. It got to the point that everytime I would watch his videos they no longer bring a smile to my face so I haven’t watched since his most recent call for volunteers. Aprx a month ago. I haven’t watched a video of his since.
Just found your channel and subscribed.You and your father not only making videos but more importantly making memories. Cherish the good times you and your father are having.
I’m a 7th generation Californian. I don’t know much about this guy and his abandoned town or his board with their money, but as a descendant of those who built this state, I Welcome you and hope you find what you’re looking for.
I've seldom met anyone outside of my own family that could also claim to being a 7th generation Californian. Our first ancestor in CA deserted from a German ship around 1860's. He jumped ship in Trinidad Bay, Humboldt County and became a logger.
I’m not one to usually inquire in such matters and until recently never questioned our families history. However, until a few years back, we were unaware of our relationship to the Lewis and Clark Expedition. It turns out, the last surviving member would settle in Franklin California with his family. His great granddaughter is my great grandmother who died tragically in Venice California 1931, a few years before my fathers birth. She is buried in Hollywood Forever Cemetery behind Paramount Studios.
Brent is a good guy, and I recommend the channel, and have also watched it since inception. I don't think that was Brent on the phone - didn't sound like him at least, but phones always make people sound different. It's a shame, but for all we know the town could've been closed due to the condition of the road at that time. Hopefully the Brazen Brits can visit another time. First time seeing this channel. (I just happen to be a Brit living a few hours South of Cerro Gordo.)
1st off, the sign that says "Town Closed" means nothing. At the town, if it is placarded "No Treaspessing," then it carries authority. If that road is public, you can drive on it. Nothing wrong with getting close and looking from a legal distance. How many patrols go out there in a week?
Laurence I’m so much enjoying seeing you with your dad. It’s great you are together like this. It gives you time to be close like a father and son thing. I’m enjoying seeing Death Valley! Nice seeing a ghost town. A ghost town you were able to get too anyways. Nice seeing the Burros. I remember hearing about the floor there. I hope your dad had fun and enjoyed it. Thank you Laurence for me along with you and your dad. Hope we see more of your dad in the future. Your mom too! Have a great week and see you soon!
We had a nice visit last summer with a friend and her husband who met when they were both working for the US National Park Service in Death Valley. She grew up with her family exploring the desert and I was on several of those trips. She got her first job with the Park Service because she wasn't afraid to work in Death Valley for the Summer. Lots of interesting stories. Glad you boys got a chance to visit. And very glad you were well prepared. "Borax" is actually Boron, a mineral commercially used for washing powder and agricultural fertilizer. In fact you can dissolve the laundry borax in water and spray it on fruit trees to boost blossom set for fruit. Just in case any gardeners are watching, I use about 1 teaspoon per 2 gallons (8 Liters) of fresh water applied with a sprayer to the leaves and fruit wood. Too much is toxic for the plant. On the field it's applied at perhaps a pound per acre. Check your soils before adding any supplement. Cheers!
It means that Brent is not the actual owner. It means that that town is owned by a corporation that are made up of multiple owners. They RUclips channel would not have gotten the attention and followers if it was actually true that a company bought a Ghost Town.
I was at Cerro Gordo March 16th and town was open, I Suspect the town occasionally closes when snow is significant. I watch his series also and never heard of a board controlling the town. Sign says open 9 to 5 and the sign that says town closed was out of view when I was there.
In Death Valley, that's where Wundorhussy lives and she would have welcomed you and gave you guys a tour, If she was there. I'm sure of it. I have been looking at Death Valley on Google Earth and it looks completely different than the last time I looked. Happy Adventures!
ah.....interesting. Just checked out her channel. I love DV, so next time we are in the area, we will see if we can meet her. Thanks.....I now have hours of new content to catch up on :)
Very interesting video.. I have "explored" Death Valley for more than 50 years. I heard the road to Scotties Castle was closed too and even part of his home was damaged... So sad! Another interesting thing is that you can see the highest point in the U.S. from the lowest point, Mt. Whitney from Badwater Basin...... Cheers Mates......
don't try it unless you have a 4 wheel drive truck with high clearance. I was just there a few months ago and barely made it up the mountain in my RAM van.
Great video guys, it truly is an inspiration for us to go and see for ourselves. As you point out the camera can’t show the majestic scenery so you have to go there to appreciate it.
It makes me sad that you couldn't go to Cerro Gordo.... I was always under the impression that it was open for people to go up to .... The indications from Brent is that people can go up but generally don't as its so out of the way... I am a subscriber to Brents site (ghost town living) but may reconsider as it looks like things are different then presented....
Why not ask "him" instead of speculating? Hint: "I don't own/run it -- an independent 3rd party/board/corp/LLC/etc does" (even if your dog is the only other member of it) is a god-send.....
Those are fabulous memories you are making with your Dad. He looks like he is really enjoying the trip, but I think you wore him down.😊 Truly was an honor to meet them and enjoy some time. Cheers ‼️
oh it absolutely was. The last time we had real one-on-one time was when I was about 12 and we went on a tent camping roadtrip around Scotland. Obviously long before we all had video cameras.
We have enjoyed the travels with "the old man!" I am sure he is still smiling and will for quite some time. Death Valley is simply amazing. We were there in May and it was over 105 Degrees! 🏍😅 What a trip. Our next visit will be earlier in the year as it does get dang hot.
What spectacular country! I used to hate the desert, and then one winter day I was driving from Reno to Salt Lake City. Somewhere north east of Reno with no one else on the road and snow clinging to the salt bush and sage as far away as I could see, the beauty of the place dawned on me like bright sunshine after a week or two of bad weather. Since then, I have been enamored of the desert country with its primitive landscape. That was nearly 60 years ago. Those cans you showed probably still had labels on them then and no rust.
What a fabulous video of what must’ve been a special trip with your dad! He’s such a gem! Once again, great video! I (Pam) wanted to got his past October, but it had still no reopened since the flood. Opened right as we were leaving Vegas. Can’t wait to get there, especially after seeing this!
i love all the things you can find in this hot desert. Its amazing what people could do looking for gold AND OTHER THINGS OVER 100 YEARS AGOIN THAT HEAT!!!!
My dad and I are real history buffs, which is one reason we love Death Valley. Compared to other national parks, its essentially untouched. You'll always find something when exploring off the beaten path. Love it!
Next time you are out west, it is a beautiful drive north past Lone Pine on US395 to Lake Tahoe. The Sierras on your left the entire drive. We live just down from the Lake Tahoe in Genoa, NV about 4 hour drive from Lone Pine. BTW Owens Lake by Lone Pine was effectively drained to supple water to LA via the aqueduct.
What a great series of travel with your dad. The video memories of this will be forever treasured. I lost my father over 30 years ago and would love to have some memories with him preserved like this. Thanks so much for sharing. - Jim
I spent the night in Lone Pine a few years ago on the way from Death Valley to Sequoia National Park. I hope you saw "Alabama Theater" while you were there. It's an amazing area of rock formations. By the way, Lone Pine is where the classic movie "Tremors" was filmed.
Great video. The desert is such a fantastic place. I went to Death Valley with my dad, too, but that was in the 60's when I was about 10. You brought back a flood of memories. Thank you for that.
Fantastic! Glad you enjoyed it. I love Death Valley and so glad I got to take my dad. It nearly didn't happen due to some health reasons, so that makes it even more special for us.
So glad you got to spend so much time with your dad- you both crack me (Leslie) up. Death Valley is on our to-do list still. It looks so cool- thanks for sharing!
Badwater! I found some incredible gems rocks and stones that look absolutely beautiful and never would think from a lake that had disappeared, then showed back up. I found incredible stuff. I did a video myself.
We did Death Valley Jan 2022 and absolutely loved it! Hate what the floods did but understand that’s part of the cycle of the parks and earth. We need to work another visit into our travels. Thanks for the video!!!
This was the second time I have visited and really just love the place. I think the fact that it is so vast and hasn't been turned into a tourist trap makes such a huge difference. We love all the national parks, but they are very very controlled and restricted (For obvious reasons), but DV just isn't like that.
I grew up in Fresno. Still live in the area. There are plenty of non boring spots here! Plus there are a ton of great spots just a short drive away. With that out of the way, I enjoyed this video. Can really tell that DV is one of your favorites. Thanks for sharing. Best to your Dad ~
Thanks Henry. We will absolutely be back in the area and will visit Fresno. With the long old drive we had, we had to just skip through. In fact there was so much we missed on the drive from Yosemite to DV. But, it gives us a great excuse to come back. We'll probably come back in the RV so we can spend longer. Thank you for watchng.
The number on the can is probably the establishment number. For example, I have a great value brand luncheon meat can with a bug on it that says "US inspected and passed Department of Agrigulture est 5". My company also has an est number that has to be on every label. I believe it is required for all USDA inspected meat, poultry, and egg products.
The Bench Mark you found on that rock is placed by surveyors who are marking property lines with information such as elevation. You may have already figured that out. Beautiful scenes, I have enjoyed watching 🤗♌️🇺🇸
Thank Leona, once we got cell signal, we did do a little more research. We are still shocked that we saw it when driving past. It really was in one of the strangest remote parts of DV. Thank you for watching.
The benchmarks are not placed by random surveyors for marking property lines. They were placed by USGS's geodetic survey. Property lines in that area are based on an entirely different survey and set of monuments.
@@ryan_niemi Exactly, although that other set of survey are just more detailed versions based upon the USGS official benchmarks. When this nation was young, the land had to be surveyed and boundaries marked officially. Then they made grid marks in "sections" if memory serves. Also the USGS benchmarks had elevation on each marker where a normal survey does not. The main purpose used for USGS survey is to mark out mining claims.
@@markpashia7067 The township/range/section survey used for property lines for this area of southern California is based on the San Bernardino meridian, which is referenced to a datum at the summit of San Bernardino Mountain established in 1852. It was not based on the national geodetic survey benchmarks that came many years later. Mining claims in the region are still based on the township/range/section surveys from the San Bernardino meridian.
Hopefully while you're in the area of Lone Pine you will visit Manzanar National Historic Site (where some of the Japanese were interred during WWII) and the Alabama Hills. Wow it was actually green out there.
They probably still have snow up there, and it would be very muddy. High clearance is recommended for that road, and make sure your car can engine brake or you'll burn your brakes on the way down.
Summer of 2023 we had hurricane Hilary come over California. That is where the damage that you saw came from. The previous Winter was a wet one. In April of 2023 there was so much snow that Highway 395 was closed for 60 miles between Reno Nevada and Mammoth Lakes California. That was just West of Death Valley. 50 years ago I spent almost 2 weeks in Death Valley with a geology class studying the geology of the area. At that time Rhyolite Nevada had a little general store that was open. Nothing was fenced of and there were many buildings still standing.
Bottoms of the cans from as late as 1950's is silver solder, about 80% silver and used longest in condensed milk cans. By weight worth about the same as pre 1964 silver coins.
A wonderful part of California to visit in spring. The only road across the Sierra Nevada mountains is closed until the snow is cleared in Tioga Pass which is sometimes as late as June so the Owens Valley and Death Valley are very 'empty' that time of year and the mountains are breath taking with the shocking coat of snow that may be 50 mikes away but looks like it is just over the next hill. Visit June lake and the "Devil's Post Pile" then go to Bodie ghost town. I was to the Rhyolite train station about 1990 when the bar was still open and won about $5 in a nickel slot machine. Back in about 2000 they changed Death Valley from a Historic Monument to a national park. The change in status has killed off most economic activity and brought on all the fences and such fun spoil restrictions.
Dad winters near Lake Havasu, and I've had the chance to visit him for many Christmas' in the past. There's just something awe inspiring about that kind of desert. It's not for everyone, but you should at least experieince it. Also, only ever seen burrows. Have yet to see a scorpion or rattlesnake. I'm beginning to doubt their existence!
There was damage from the hurricane, then more damage from rain this winter in Death Valley. Normally I think you just drive up to Cerra Gordo without permission. The road had been damaged from rain and they also get snow which makes it impassable.
GPS and the American west can be a little bit of a tricky mix. People following the directions of their built-in vehicle GPS can find themselves lost. It has happened in Death Valley, and in the Sierra Nevada. The technology of how the can was made tells you a lot. I won't go into details, but that can is from around WW I or earlier. It was likely left behind by a prospector or hunter. It could also be from an early camper who simply pullled off the road for an evening. The desert west, especially Nevada, but also parts of California saw major legs come and go. If you know what you are looking at, geologically, you can see ancient shorelines around former lakes. I can see some even in your video. At its fullest, you would be well under the surface of that lake.
The STEEL can was opened with a 38-caliber bullet. The bullet dented the inside bottom of the can. Are you from the UK? The UK has centuries of history, but not of hundreds of open spaces like our Death Valley. Enjoy your time with your Dad, mine is gone now. I told my dad that I would miss him when he's gone, lol he said he’ll miss me too. Cheers love the video.
Thank you! That means a lot to us, more than you know. It can be quite difficult to get the music volume right on videos as RUclips actually adjusts the volume after upload. Sometimes we get it wrong, so honestly, thank you for noticing and confirming I got this one right :)
I don't know when this was shot but I was just in Cerro Gordo in January of this yera (2024). But you should be glad you didn't try to take that car up there. I barely made it up the mountain. You really need a 4 wheel drive vehicle as it's a steep rocky mountain road. It was cool but I wouldn't do it again.
The first week of Feb 2024 I camped in Furnace Creek we had four full days of rain...almost 2 inches, that's why there is so much water around. This rain also washed out several roads and closed many of the points of interest.
Ok, so I was just in Shoshone and Death Valley last week. The Crowbar Restaurant in Shoshone was great when we were there. I don’t know what happened when u ate there, but I recommend it. Steve the cook there during days has been there 14 years and is a cool guy. Their salads were fresh, and better than anything I had at Furnace Creek. The Ashford Mill site is only half the story. The best part of that site is across the street on a dirt road. Road requires a high clearance 4 wheel drive. You will end up at a trail head and hike up to the Ashford Mine if you can find the trail, which the old road is washed out. It’s an amazing site, lots of the buildings are still up there and multiple mines. It is NOT AN EASY hike. Golden Canyon loop hike is great after you get away from all the tourists taking selfies of themselves. Not too many go very far so its enjoyable after you get into the hike
The Flooding was this year the lake is 9 miles long by 3.5 mile wild but only about 1 foot deep the mountains to the north west over 10 thousand ft high i helped gravel the lake shore a few years ago with gravel from Pahrump with my semi artic lorry Ed 40 S of Vegas born in 1941 Huyton Liverpool
My ears perked up when your dad said he was given Borax and Honey. Today that is an effective organic ant killer. Maybe grandmum thought he had "ants in the pants" when he was a child? Great poking around in the DV gents.
hahaha. I will let him know. I'd love to know how toxic it essentially is though, although he's still doing pretty well, so it can't have been that bad for him.
I visit DV at least once a year for 1-2 weeks at a time. Never paid the fees to enter and never paid for a hotel or camping spot. Once you get out of the valley and away from the paved roads it's pretty much open and dispersed camping.. The whole areas is filled with old mining camps, ghost towns, ancient petroglyphs, and the entire geological history of the planet.. Mountain lions, wild burros and horses, coyotes, big horn sheep and even dinosaur tracks. The key is getting off the pathed road and away from the tourist sites. By the way you can get to Cerro Gorda from the east via Death Valley. You will need a 4x4 and a extra day but it is an amazing journey.
Thanks Zak, great information. The first time we visited was on Harleys (Route 66), then this time in a rented SUV. My dad was a little nervous to venture too far off the beaten path especially with a lot of the roads washed out and quite uncomfortable. We hope to visit again in 2025 in our RV for a longer period and venture out a little more. I did not know there were Dinosaur remnants though. Would love to see that!
I am not positive but Brent was in Washington state on an adventure in Feb. if memory serves. Likely why the town closed sign was there. He had a caretaker on site but did not want to stress them with tourists while he was out of town. He brought back a bunch of mining timbers from MBMM after a visit to his sawmill operation and mined a little gold while there. You might find the video on Jason's site of that visit. (Mount Baker Mining and Metals).
We are a bit behind on Brents videos, so you could be right and that would explain it. We totally understand though that they don't want people just visiting as and when, so we respected their privacy. Hopefully next time we are in the area, we can get permission and really tour the town. Really Love his channel.
We got hammered a few months ago - again - so a lot of the closures were from that. Right after everything by was fixed it got wiped out again. Bummer about Cerro Gordo. I think with his channel blowing up they’ve had to change the way they do things. Was just out in Death Valley this last weekend. Way too many people but it kind of just reopened and spring break. Enjoyed your video.
Thanks DSD. Yup, compared to last time we were there, its definitely been through the wars. When we revisit the West coast in 2025, I'll try and get some time with Brent at Cerro Gordo. I find everything he does fascinating.
For not being a local (or even if you were, you do a good job covering Death Valley. I have nice picture of my late wife and our three litt!e ones (little at the time) next to the BadWater sign around 1997 or 98.
Thank you! We are not locals at all, but we just have a real soft spot for everywhere in the US, especially the National Parks and super especially, Death Valley. I wish RUclips would allow you to post photos in the comments. I'd love to see the picture.
I grew up in California but never visited Death Valley. Enjoyed your video very much. I follow another RUclipsr who lives in the Death Valley area. Check out Wonderhussy. She's a lot of fun as she explores the desert areas.
Another viewer also mentioned Wonderhussy, so we have some catching up to do on her channel. Thanks for the suggestion. We always thought Death Valley would just be a boring desert, but thats totally not the case, there is always something interesting to see.
Just imagine back when early settlers on horseback and pulling wagons had to figure out a way to get over those massive mountains when they had NO roads after crossing a desert !
I'm glad I'm not the only one who thinks about things like that. I would often think about this driving through death valley. Its also very rocky, so riding a horse and cart anywhere would not have been comfortable at all
Look up an old 1950s American TV series called "Death Valley Days". It was sponsered by the brand name "20 Mule Train Borax". It was a weekly black and white that Dad seldom missed.
Us older guys practice very often to sleep in a seated upright position... your father has it down! I am going to have someone take a photo of me to make sure I am getting it right .😊
Holy Cow, February and two people kayaking in the lake. THAT HAD TO BE WONDERHUSSY from RUclips fame. Her and another guy tried to make it work but it was too shallow so they did a few photos and gave up.. You can find a video of that on her channel. What a coincidence that you saw them out there trying to make an adventure video.
Thanks Mark. I actually went and watched her video after reading your comment. She was actually there the day after we left, so wasn't her unfortunately. Next time we are in the area, we'll contact her as I imagine she has some really great knowledge of the lesser known parts of DV.
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My dad fell in love the with the place in the early 70's and he took the family there several years with our little tow-along trailer. Sometimes we'd go a mile and he'd pull over for another picture. Breathtaking beauty! One stop in the middle of nowhere we stopped to fix lunch and two Burros walked up. Dusty as heck, but gentle...asking for help. We fed them a couple loaves of bread and gave them most of our water. They were OK with gentle head-scratches--I was 10-12 years old and it still sticks with me how gentle they were. Last trip there with dad was ~1985 and it was a wonderful week of re-visiting the area. Super-glad you got to visit with your dad--its amazing country! Thanks for sharing this video! Time for me to get back down there!
thank you for sharing🤍
mom skipped my school a couple times (the 70's) but woke me up super early, she brought apples, lettuce, carrots etc, we got breakfast at McD's or Jack in the Box & she drove out to Ice Box Canyon or such & wed go hiking.
Most times wed run into burro's, prob because back then it was not built up (Las Vegas/Red Rock)
I too remember it like it was yesterday. Always sweet, gentle, soft beauties, I looked forward to running into them.
memories of a lifetime.
many blessings
I love how your dad always says “And I’m Natalie.” 🤣
He just rolls with it 🤣
Cerro Gordo Road is a Public Road and the public has right of way to drive on it, "NO Board approval" required. The mine itself is Privately owned so you must stay on the road while driving by the mine.
Wow. That wasn’t Brett’s voice but absolutely was speaking for him. I use to be a Huge fan and supporter from his first video when it was made. His first fall my mother and I drove to Lone Pine stayed the night and the next day went to the store and purchased aprx.$300.00 worth of food supplies and water. We took it up to him ( no sign not to enter) and when we got there I asked if Brett was available. They told me no. Which was cool we just wanted to leave to supplies and see the town from our car. I left all the goods on his porch with a note and my email and telephone number stating if he ever would welcome volunteers I would love to be notified and attend. The next video or so he stated he wanted to get names and emails from people who wanted to volunteer etc. Long story short I have never been contacted or notified for any events. I even purchased merchandise to support him. Now this rude phone contact, imo, is strike two. I hardly watch any of his videos anymore because I now see his hand always out with promises of being welcome to visit CG only to be turned away and welcomed for free labor only. Very disappointing 👎🤨🤨
Wow! That’s really terrible and wonder what is going on with the entire story. That was awesome of you taking supplies up there to him like that although it seemed unappreciated.
They burned down the town,now the are building a motel,they have dug a lot of the original soil,the people that maintained it before him were super nice and did their best to preserve it,this corporation has come in with a heavy hand and disturbed everything
@@dougtodd305 I went up after it burned in October of the same year. He moved up in March, we knew he would need supplies for the winter(we use to live in Tahoe)and we figured he wouldn’t be stocked up so we brought up big bags of rice, beans even some good Whiskey, tons of water(approx 100 gallons+) and everyday things like peanut butter and jelly, soups, etc. I kept watching even after feeling bad after I never received an email and everytime he says he was planning a “volunteer workday” I would email and still never hear back. It got to the point that everytime I would watch his videos they no longer bring a smile to my face so I haven’t watched since his most recent call for volunteers. Aprx a month ago. I haven’t watched a video of his since.
The town may be closed but the road should be open. It's a public road. I've driven through into Death Valley and out to the hot springs.
Lawrence, I am loving your adventure with your Dad!!! What amazing memories you both will have from this trip❤
The best! Thanks for watching and glad you’re enjoying as much as I did!
Just found your channel and subscribed.You and your father not only making videos but more importantly making memories. Cherish the good times you and your father are having.
Thank you, I will 🥰
I’m a 7th generation Californian.
I don’t know much about this guy and his abandoned town or his board with their money, but as a descendant of those who built this state, I Welcome you and hope you find what you’re looking for.
I've seldom met anyone outside of my own family that could also claim to being a 7th generation Californian. Our first ancestor in CA deserted from a German ship around 1860's. He jumped ship in Trinidad Bay, Humboldt County and became a logger.
I’m not one to usually inquire in such matters and until recently never questioned our families history.
However, until a few years back, we were unaware of our relationship to the Lewis and Clark Expedition. It turns out, the last surviving member would settle in Franklin California with his family.
His great granddaughter is my great grandmother who died tragically in Venice California 1931, a few years before my fathers birth. She is buried in Hollywood Forever Cemetery behind Paramount Studios.
Brent is a good guy, and I recommend the channel, and have also watched it since inception. I don't think that was Brent on the phone - didn't sound like him at least, but phones always make people sound different. It's a shame, but for all we know the town could've been closed due to the condition of the road at that time. Hopefully the Brazen Brits can visit another time. First time seeing this channel. (I just happen to be a Brit living a few hours South of Cerro Gordo.)
And this is more of what we need. Good memories being made.
What a fun adventures you and your Father are having. Great memories for you both. Thanks for sharing.
I must say, we never really wanted to see Death Valley. Now we do. Great little tour.
1st off, the sign that says "Town Closed" means nothing. At the town, if it is placarded "No Treaspessing," then it carries authority. If that road is public, you can drive on it. Nothing wrong with getting close and looking from a legal distance. How many patrols go out there in a week?
Laurence I’m so much enjoying seeing you with your dad. It’s great you are together like this. It gives you time to be close like a father and son thing. I’m enjoying seeing Death Valley! Nice seeing a ghost town. A ghost town you were able to get too anyways. Nice seeing the Burros. I remember hearing about the floor there. I hope your dad had fun and enjoyed it. Thank you Laurence for me along with you and your dad. Hope we see more of your dad in the future. Your mom too! Have a great week and see you soon!
We had a nice visit last summer with a friend and her husband who met when they were both working for the US National Park Service in Death Valley. She grew up with her family exploring the desert and I was on several of those trips. She got her first job with the Park Service because she wasn't afraid to work in Death Valley for the Summer. Lots of interesting stories. Glad you boys got a chance to visit. And very glad you were well prepared. "Borax" is actually Boron, a mineral commercially used for washing powder and agricultural fertilizer. In fact you can dissolve the laundry borax in water and spray it on fruit trees to boost blossom set for fruit. Just in case any gardeners are watching, I use about 1 teaspoon per 2 gallons (8 Liters) of fresh water applied with a sprayer to the leaves and fruit wood. Too much is toxic for the plant. On the field it's applied at perhaps a pound per acre. Check your soils before adding any supplement. Cheers!
It means that Brent is not the actual owner. It means that that town is owned by a corporation that are made up of multiple owners. They RUclips channel would not have gotten the attention and followers if it was actually true that a company bought a Ghost Town.
That's what I'm wondering. What board was he talking about? Dang.
I was at Cerro Gordo March 16th and town was open, I Suspect the town occasionally closes when snow is significant. I watch his series also and never heard of a board controlling the town. Sign says open 9 to 5 and the sign that says town closed was out of view when I was there.
In Death Valley, that's where Wundorhussy lives and she would have welcomed you and gave you guys a tour, If she was there. I'm sure of it. I have been looking at Death Valley on Google Earth and it looks completely different than the last time I looked. Happy Adventures!
ah.....interesting. Just checked out her channel. I love DV, so next time we are in the area, we will see if we can meet her. Thanks.....I now have hours of new content to catch up on :)
And don't forget the One legged miner, a fellow RUclipsr who is converting a mine into a sort of museum.
Very interesting video.. I have "explored" Death Valley for more than 50 years. I heard the road to Scotties Castle was closed too and even part of his home was damaged... So sad! Another interesting thing is that you can see the highest point in the U.S. from the lowest point, Mt. Whitney from Badwater Basin...... Cheers Mates......
2nd highest, Denali being over 20,000’ . Highest in lower 48 … 👍🏻
What a fun video. Just found you. I’m enjoying your adventures with your dad.❤
Thanks for wearing our hat...lol. Love that. Love to watch Cerro Gordo as well. It's on our list as well to go.
don't try it unless you have a 4 wheel drive truck with high clearance. I was just there a few months ago and barely made it up the mountain in my RAM van.
29:21 "Interesting, but slightly disappointing in some ways" That's what people say about me. 😂
😂😂
Hey! You brought the wine and marmite. Definitely NOT disappointing 😆
Great video with your dad. The scenery was awesome. Have to add it to my list of places to see.
Permission from the board? What board?
The ghost town guy is going to be bummed when he realizes just who the visitor was he passed on!
hahaha. We wish! But, lets hope he invites us back!
Great to see you with your father on this adventure.
Just really enjoying your travels with your Dad. Such a special time.
Thankyou guys 🥰
Great video guys, it truly is an inspiration for us to go and see for ourselves. As you point out the camera can’t show the majestic scenery so you have to go there to appreciate it.
It makes me sad that you couldn't go to Cerro Gordo.... I was always under the impression that it was open for people to go up to .... The indications from Brent is that people can go up but generally don't as its so out of the way... I am a subscriber to Brents site (ghost town living) but may reconsider as it looks like things are different then presented....
Why not ask "him" instead of speculating? Hint: "I don't own/run it -- an independent 3rd party/board/corp/LLC/etc does" (even if your dog is the only other member of it) is a god-send.....
Looks like a great trip! We cannot wait to get to visit The Death Valley area.
Really enjoyed this video . Heading to Las Vegas beginning of April and hoping (if able) to visit Death Valley.
Those are fabulous memories you are making with your Dad. He looks like he is really enjoying the trip, but I think you wore him down.😊
Truly was an honor to meet them and enjoy some time.
Cheers ‼️
oh it absolutely was. The last time we had real one-on-one time was when I was about 12 and we went on a tent camping roadtrip around Scotland. Obviously long before we all had video cameras.
We got stranded in Rhyolite in the seventies. Luckily a random guy drove by as the sun was setting, and took Mom to Beatty to get a new belt.
We have enjoyed the travels with "the old man!" I am sure he is still smiling and will for quite some time. Death Valley is simply amazing. We were there in May and it was over 105 Degrees! 🏍😅 What a trip. Our next visit will be earlier in the year as it does get dang hot.
What spectacular country! I used to hate the desert, and then one winter day I was driving from Reno to Salt Lake City. Somewhere north east of Reno with no one else on the road and snow clinging to the salt bush and sage as far away as I could see, the beauty of the place dawned on me like bright sunshine after a week or two of bad weather. Since then, I have been enamored of the desert country with its primitive landscape. That was nearly 60 years ago. Those cans you showed probably still had labels on them then and no rust.
What a fabulous video of what must’ve been a special trip with your dad! He’s such a gem! Once again, great video! I (Pam) wanted to got his past October, but it had still no reopened since the flood. Opened right as we were leaving Vegas. Can’t wait to get there, especially after seeing this!
Very engaging video, enjoyed! 🍻
The scenery with the snow peaked mountains looming ahead of you, is absolutely stunningly beautiful! I was surprised to see that in the desert.
Us too. the scenery on our entire trip was like this. It made the long drive so much easier!
toured DV with the boys on dual sport motorbikes , a. decade ago.. camping for a week in the mountains and hot springs.. thanks for the recap.
So weird to see Badwater Basin with all that water. Awesome you got to take your dad there.
So cool to get to do this trip with your dad.
i love all the things you can find in this hot desert. Its amazing what people could do looking for gold AND OTHER THINGS OVER 100 YEARS AGOIN THAT HEAT!!!!
My dad and I are real history buffs, which is one reason we love Death Valley. Compared to other national parks, its essentially untouched. You'll always find something when exploring off the beaten path. Love it!
I watched a couple of his videos on "his" town, but after seeing this, I will never watch another.
Next time you are out west, it is a beautiful drive north past Lone Pine on US395 to Lake Tahoe. The Sierras on your left the entire drive. We live just down from the Lake Tahoe in Genoa, NV about 4 hour drive from Lone Pine. BTW Owens Lake by Lone Pine was effectively drained to supple water to LA via the aqueduct.
395 is my favorite drive ever.
What a great series of travel with your dad. The video memories of this will be forever treasured. I lost my father over 30 years ago and would love to have some memories with him preserved like this. Thanks so much for sharing. - Jim
Yeah, its really great that we were able to do this. It nearly didn't happen due to health reasons, but luckily he is doing really well now.
That's good!@@BrazenBrits
You should have stopped in Fresno to see Forestierre, the underground home and gardens, now a museum.
I spent the night in Lone Pine a few years ago on the way from Death Valley to Sequoia National Park. I hope you saw "Alabama Theater" while you were there. It's an amazing area of rock formations. By the way, Lone Pine is where the classic movie "Tremors" was filmed.
Great video. The desert is such a fantastic place. I went to Death Valley with my dad, too, but that was in the 60's when I was about 10. You brought back a flood of memories. Thank you for that.
Fantastic! Glad you enjoyed it. I love Death Valley and so glad I got to take my dad. It nearly didn't happen due to some health reasons, so that makes it even more special for us.
So glad you got to spend so much time with your dad- you both crack me (Leslie) up. Death Valley is on our to-do list still. It looks so cool- thanks for sharing!
It was a great trip! I wish I had recorded a bunch of the laughs we had off camera.
Badwater! I found some incredible gems rocks and stones that look absolutely beautiful and never would think from a lake that had disappeared, then showed back up. I found incredible stuff. I did a video myself.
oh wow. We'll check your videos. Its amazing how different the whole place is from 2 years ago. Never thought we'd see people kayaking in DV.
We did Death Valley Jan 2022 and absolutely loved it! Hate what the floods did but understand that’s part of the cycle of the parks and earth. We need to work another visit into our travels. Thanks for the video!!!
This was the second time I have visited and really just love the place. I think the fact that it is so vast and hasn't been turned into a tourist trap makes such a huge difference. We love all the national parks, but they are very very controlled and restricted (For obvious reasons), but DV just isn't like that.
Nice find with the geological marker. Good visit of Death Valley.
Still can't believe we spotted it. I still need to do some research to see how many are actually out there
Your can with the solder bottom is before 1920, after 1921 it was outlawed because of lead poisoning.
I grew up in Fresno. Still live in the area. There are plenty of non boring spots here! Plus there are a ton of great spots just a short drive away. With that out of the way, I enjoyed this video. Can really tell that DV is one of your favorites. Thanks for sharing. Best to your Dad ~
Thanks Henry. We will absolutely be back in the area and will visit Fresno. With the long old drive we had, we had to just skip through. In fact there was so much we missed on the drive from Yosemite to DV. But, it gives us a great excuse to come back. We'll probably come back in the RV so we can spend longer. Thank you for watchng.
The number on the can is probably the establishment number. For example, I have a great value brand luncheon meat can with a bug on it that says "US inspected and passed Department of Agrigulture est 5". My company also has an est number that has to be on every label. I believe it is required for all USDA inspected meat, poultry, and egg products.
The Bench Mark you found on that rock is placed by surveyors who are marking property lines with information such as elevation. You may have already figured that out. Beautiful scenes, I have enjoyed watching 🤗♌️🇺🇸
Thank Leona, once we got cell signal, we did do a little more research. We are still shocked that we saw it when driving past. It really was in one of the strangest remote parts of DV. Thank you for watching.
The benchmarks are not placed by random surveyors for marking property lines. They were placed by USGS's geodetic survey. Property lines in that area are based on an entirely different survey and set of monuments.
@@ryan_niemi Exactly, although that other set of survey are just more detailed versions based upon the USGS official benchmarks. When this nation was young, the land had to be surveyed and boundaries marked officially. Then they made grid marks in "sections" if memory serves. Also the USGS benchmarks had elevation on each marker where a normal survey does not. The main purpose used for USGS survey is to mark out mining claims.
@@markpashia7067 The township/range/section survey used for property lines for this area of southern California is based on the San Bernardino meridian, which is referenced to a datum at the summit of San Bernardino Mountain established in 1852. It was not based on the national geodetic survey benchmarks that came many years later. Mining claims in the region are still based on the township/range/section surveys from the San Bernardino meridian.
Hopefully while you're in the area of Lone Pine you will visit Manzanar National Historic Site (where some of the Japanese were interred during WWII) and the Alabama Hills. Wow it was actually green out there.
oh man, we missed that. But, we are planning to come back next year in our RV, so I'll add it to the list. Great suggestion. Thank you!
Thought for sure they would try to drive out to the "Race Track"! Fascinating place.
very very tempted :)
They probably still have snow up there, and it would be very muddy. High clearance is recommended for that road, and make sure your car can engine brake or you'll burn your brakes on the way down.
Summer of 2023 we had hurricane Hilary come over California. That is where the damage that you saw came from. The previous Winter was a wet one. In April of 2023 there was so much snow that Highway 395 was closed for 60 miles between Reno Nevada and Mammoth Lakes California. That was just West of Death Valley.
50 years ago I spent almost 2 weeks in Death Valley with a geology class studying the geology of the area. At that time Rhyolite Nevada had a little general store that was open. Nothing was fenced of and there were many buildings still standing.
Great video! Say hi to "the old man" for me! Cheers! 🇨🇦
Great little tour! Lovely you can do this with your dad!
absolutely. It nearly didn't happen due to health reasons, so made it all the more special.
Next time you drive through Fresno, stop at the Forestiere Underground Gardens.
YES!! Some of the best use of "bad" land ever. I could live there or somewhere like it!
Just found your channel & Love this video. Thank you!
Bottoms of the cans from as late as 1950's is silver solder, about 80% silver and used longest in condensed milk cans. By weight worth about the same as pre 1964 silver coins.
A wonderful part of California to visit in spring. The only road across the Sierra Nevada mountains is closed until the snow is cleared in Tioga Pass which is sometimes as late as June so the Owens Valley and Death Valley are very 'empty' that time of year and the mountains are breath taking with the shocking coat of snow that may be 50 mikes away but looks like it is just over the next hill. Visit June lake and the "Devil's Post Pile" then go to Bodie ghost town. I was to the Rhyolite train station about 1990 when the bar was still open and won about $5 in a nickel slot machine. Back in about 2000 they changed Death Valley from a Historic Monument to a national park. The change in status has killed off most economic activity and brought on all the fences and such fun spoil restrictions.
Lone Pine is one of my favorites!
Dad winters near Lake Havasu, and I've had the chance to visit him for many Christmas' in the past. There's just something awe inspiring about that kind of desert. It's not for everyone, but you should at least experieince it.
Also, only ever seen burrows. Have yet to see a scorpion or rattlesnake. I'm beginning to doubt their existence!
There was damage from the hurricane, then more damage from rain this winter in Death Valley.
Normally I think you just drive up to Cerra Gordo without permission. The road had been damaged from rain and they also get snow which makes it impassable.
Enjoyed your video.
Glad you enjoyed it. Thank you Barbara!
What a spectacular countryside! I’m grateful for the places where the environment is hostile enough to discourage development.
GPS and the American west can be a little bit of a tricky mix. People following the directions of their built-in vehicle GPS can find themselves lost. It has happened in Death Valley, and in the Sierra Nevada. The technology of how the can was made tells you a lot. I won't go into details, but that can is from around WW I or earlier. It was likely left behind by a prospector or hunter. It could also be from an early camper who simply pullled off the road for an evening. The desert west, especially Nevada, but also parts of California saw major legs come and go. If you know what you are looking at, geologically, you can see ancient shorelines around former lakes. I can see some even in your video. At its fullest, you would be well under the surface of that lake.
The STEEL can was opened with a 38-caliber bullet. The bullet dented the inside bottom of the can. Are you from the UK? The UK has centuries of history, but not of hundreds of open spaces like our Death Valley. Enjoy your time with your Dad, mine is gone now. I told my dad that I would miss him when he's gone, lol he said he’ll miss me too. Cheers love the video.
I like the musical accompaniment ... pleasant and not too loud.
Thank you! That means a lot to us, more than you know. It can be quite difficult to get the music volume right on videos as RUclips actually adjusts the volume after upload. Sometimes we get it wrong, so honestly, thank you for noticing and confirming I got this one right :)
I subscribed And I liked it
I live in the desert by Joshua Tree National Park. Love the desert. Nothing like it.
I don't know when this was shot but I was just in Cerro Gordo in January of this yera (2024). But you should be glad you didn't try to take that car up there. I barely made it up the mountain. You really need a 4 wheel drive vehicle as it's a steep rocky mountain road. It was cool but I wouldn't do it again.
17:59 You were surprised that the water didn't smell. That was probably because they wasn't any vegetation in it to rot.
Very good point!
The first week of Feb 2024 I camped in Furnace Creek we had four full days of rain...almost 2 inches, that's why there is so much water around. This rain also washed out several roads and closed many of the points of interest.
oh no way. That would explain why there was so much running water through it. I assumed it was just snow melt.
Ok, so I was just in Shoshone and Death Valley last week. The Crowbar Restaurant in Shoshone was great when we were there. I don’t know what happened when u ate there, but I recommend it. Steve the cook there during days has been there 14 years and is a cool guy. Their salads were fresh, and better than anything I had at Furnace Creek. The Ashford Mill site is only half the story. The best part of that site is across the street on a dirt road. Road requires a high clearance 4 wheel drive. You will end up at a trail head and hike up to the Ashford Mine if you can find the trail, which the old road is washed out. It’s an amazing site, lots of the buildings are still up there and multiple mines. It is NOT AN EASY hike. Golden Canyon loop hike is great after you get away from all the tourists taking selfies of themselves. Not too many go very far so its enjoyable after you get into the hike
The Flooding was this year the lake is 9 miles long by 3.5 mile wild but only about 1 foot deep the mountains to the north west over 10 thousand ft high i helped gravel the lake shore a few years ago with gravel from Pahrump with my semi artic lorry Ed 40 S of Vegas born in 1941 Huyton Liverpool
Great adventure you have had. And the weather was kind to you , really.
It was great weather all week! I don't think we saw rain once the whole time!
Are there any cemeteries in the desert that you found?
My ears perked up when your dad said he was given Borax and Honey. Today that is an effective organic ant killer. Maybe
grandmum thought he had "ants in the pants" when he was a child? Great poking around in the DV gents.
hahaha. I will let him know. I'd love to know how toxic it essentially is though, although he's still doing pretty well, so it can't have been that bad for him.
I visit DV at least once a year for 1-2 weeks at a time. Never paid the fees to enter and never paid for a hotel or camping spot. Once you get out of the valley and away from the paved roads it's pretty much open and dispersed camping..
The whole areas is filled with old mining camps, ghost towns, ancient petroglyphs, and the entire geological history of the planet.. Mountain lions, wild burros and horses, coyotes, big horn sheep and even dinosaur tracks.
The key is getting off the pathed road and away from the tourist sites.
By the way you can get to Cerro Gorda from the east via Death Valley. You will need a 4x4 and a extra day but it is an amazing journey.
Thanks Zak, great information. The first time we visited was on Harleys (Route 66), then this time in a rented SUV. My dad was a little nervous to venture too far off the beaten path especially with a lot of the roads washed out and quite uncomfortable. We hope to visit again in 2025 in our RV for a longer period and venture out a little more. I did not know there were Dinosaur remnants though. Would love to see that!
I am not positive but Brent was in Washington state on an adventure in Feb. if memory serves. Likely why the town closed sign was there. He had a caretaker on site but did not want to stress them with tourists while he was out of town. He brought back a bunch of mining timbers from MBMM after a visit to his sawmill operation and mined a little gold while there. You might find the video on Jason's site of that visit. (Mount Baker Mining and Metals).
We are a bit behind on Brents videos, so you could be right and that would explain it. We totally understand though that they don't want people just visiting as and when, so we respected their privacy. Hopefully next time we are in the area, we can get permission and really tour the town. Really Love his channel.
dont miss the forestiere underground gardens in fresno. amazing!!!!!!
Was there a couple of years ago on the day it hit 130 degrees. Wind was like a blast furnace!
oh man. I bet it was. Thats Crazy.
We got hammered a few months ago - again - so a lot of the closures were from that. Right after everything by was fixed it got wiped out again. Bummer about Cerro Gordo. I think with his channel blowing up they’ve had to change the way they do things. Was just out in Death Valley this last weekend. Way too many people but it kind of just reopened and spring break. Enjoyed your video.
Thanks DSD. Yup, compared to last time we were there, its definitely been through the wars. When we revisit the West coast in 2025, I'll try and get some time with Brent at Cerro Gordo. I find everything he does fascinating.
For not being a local (or even if you were, you do a good job covering Death Valley.
I have nice picture of my late wife and our three litt!e ones (little at the time) next to the BadWater sign around 1997 or 98.
Thank you! We are not locals at all, but we just have a real soft spot for everywhere in the US, especially the National Parks and super especially, Death Valley. I wish RUclips would allow you to post photos in the comments. I'd love to see the picture.
I am so sorry you didn’t stop in Fresno to see the Forstier Underground Gardens. Truly worth a visit to experience and learn its history.
we are planning an RV trip in 2025 for much longer, so thank you....we have the gardens on our list for that Trip.
I grew up in California but never visited Death Valley. Enjoyed your video very much. I follow another RUclipsr who lives in the Death Valley area. Check out Wonderhussy. She's a lot of fun as she explores the desert areas.
Another viewer also mentioned Wonderhussy, so we have some catching up to do on her channel. Thanks for the suggestion. We always thought Death Valley would just be a boring desert, but thats totally not the case, there is always something interesting to see.
The lake had been dry for a long time. When the floods happened thenlake filled up.
Boron is good for several health reasons.
I enjoy Boron in the morning.
I'm American and my wife is from England and we live in California. She can't imagine living anywhere else.
It's a great area for sure! We lived in Virginia and then Florida. We love visiting the west coast and planning a bigger trip in 2025
Death Valley is an amazing place. I wish I'd spent more time there.
It really is. We absolutely love it.
Just imagine back when early settlers on horseback and pulling wagons had to figure out a way to get over those massive mountains when they had NO roads after crossing a desert !
I'm glad I'm not the only one who thinks about things like that. I would often think about this driving through death valley. Its also very rocky, so riding a horse and cart anywhere would not have been comfortable at all
Look up an old 1950s American TV series called "Death Valley Days". It was sponsered by the brand name "20 Mule Train Borax". It was a weekly black and white that Dad seldom missed.
oh wow. I wonder if it was shown in the UK? looking it up right now.
Us older guys practice very often to sleep in a seated upright position... your father has it down! I am going to have someone take a photo of me to make sure I am getting it right .😊
hahahaha. He is very very experienced in doing it, that's for sure :)
🦘🇦🇺 Borax is the trace element Boron with one additional sodium atom. Boron is an important trace mineral our body needs. 🙏
Interesting 🤔
Holy Cow, February and two people kayaking in the lake. THAT HAD TO BE WONDERHUSSY from RUclips fame. Her and another guy tried to make it work but it was too shallow so they did a few photos and gave up.. You can find a video of that on her channel. What a coincidence that you saw them out there trying to make an adventure video.
Thanks Mark. I actually went and watched her video after reading your comment. She was actually there the day after we left, so wasn't her unfortunately. Next time we are in the area, we'll contact her as I imagine she has some really great knowledge of the lesser known parts of DV.
If you were an illegal alien, you could go wherever you please ! Border closed, Town closed, samey same !