Here Gilbert readies to take a shot on the pool table in this country dive bar just on the Nevada side of the border south of Amargosa Valley. It was one last chance to gamble, shot pool, and drink a Bud in a bottle before driving down into Death Valley. The outside of the bar said Bikers Welcome and the only other buildings in the settlement were a small hotel and casino across the street, a few houses, and a gas station, all surrounded by sand, desert shrubs, and mountains in the distance. There was a bone dry, hot wind blowing and I bet it was easily over 100 degrees.

Text and photo by Stephen Bugno