Death Valley, Ubehebe Crater - 10/01/14

Today again visited the amazing Death Valley National Park. Travelling north past Furnace Creek and Stovepipe Wells to see Scotty's Castle. With reservations for the tour at 2:00 pm, we arrived in the area about an hour earlier. I had wanted to see the Ubehebe Crater which is located about 8 miles west of Scotty's Castle, so we made a quick detour to check it out.

This crater was created about 2,000 years ago (very recent in comparison to the geology of almost all other rock formations in the Valley) when there was a huge explosion that spewed shattered rock over about 6 square miles. Groundwater here had been turned into steam when rising magma (molten rock) encountered it. As the pressure continued to build, it eventually resulted in the volcanic eruption.

When we got to the overlook, it was amazing!  The crater is 1/2 mile across and 500' deep.

A little closer to the rim.

Crater walls.

Of course, black volcanic rock could be seen everywhere around the location of the crater.

I would highly recommend a visit to this overlook. There is a 1/2 mile trail around a portion of the rim, but we did not have time to hike it. If we visit it again, we will be prepared to do so.

Admission to Death Valley National Park is $20/vehicle for a 7-day pass. John's senior pass gets us in for free.

Website:  www.nps.gov/deva