"Once we finally settled into this steep upward hike, we began to encounter major weather: fierce winds and blowing sand, spitting rain, and bright sunlight peaking through ominous dark clouds. We also noted a torrential rain storm on the far northern horizon. We explored a bit longer, literally crawling along the ridge line of the highest dune. Suddenly, pushed backwards by massive wind gusts, it felt like we were a bit too close to the eye of the storm. With no discussion, we all realized that it was time to turn back.
Foolishly, we thought our descent would be a breeze (no pun intended). Instead, due to blustering wind and almost total loss of visibility, the return hike was actually very difficult and a bit unnerving."

Marcus W. Reinkensmeyer & Steve Stilwell, From Rock to Sand: Death Valley Landscapes, 2007.