Bryan Morhardt, age 10, o£ Des Moines, Iowa, for his question:

Where is the lowest part of the United States?

This lowest of lowlands is a trough of fabulous scenery with a ghastly name. The pioneers of 1849, crossed it on their frantic way to the Gold Rush. Many were careless and unprepared to cope with the trek of ten miles or so across sunken desert. Many perished from thirst and exposure in the scorching heat that often reaches 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Hence, the long, narrow trough was named Death Valley. Later, sensible people took a good look around at the place and studied its countless marvels. In 1933, this unique natural wonderland became the Death Valley National Monument    to be preserved forever.

This valley, in east central California, is about 130 miles long and its width varies from six to 14 miles. The lowest dip in its floor is 282 feet below sea level  ¬the lowest land dip in the entire Americas. Both sides are rimmed with magnificent mountain ranges. The valley floor is full of surprising scenes and fantastic earth formations. Its desert, which looks so deserted, also shelters a vast assortment of quiet little living things. Maybe Death Valley is the wrong name for the place. to Diana