Ubehebe Craters
Ubehebe Craters in Death Valley National Park are a dramatic series of large, steep-sided volcanic basins formed by hydrovolcanic explosions during the last millennium. Visitors can hike rim trails and cross the expansive flat floor to experience the raw power of past eruptions.
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Geography
| Address | Ubehebe Crater, Death Valley NP, California, USAUbehebe Crater Road |
|---|---|
| Continent | North America |
| Region | Western United States |
| Subregion | Great Basin |
| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| County | Inyo County |
| District | Death Valley National Park |
| City | Ubehebe Crater |
| Timezone | AmericaLos Angeles |
| Latitude | 36.544 |
| Longitude | -117.317 |
| Maps |
11:55 AM LOCAL TIMEUbehebe Craters are a group of large volcanic basins and maars carved into the southwestern Nevada volcanic field and sit within Death Valley National Park. The central crater, approximately 600 meters across and up to 50 meters deep, was formed by hydrovolcanic explosion as groundwater encountered hot basaltic magma. The surrounding area, spanning roughly 13 square kilometers, features smaller craters, a cracked basalt surface, and a broad, flattened floor accessible via established trails. The site is a testament to short, violent eruptions that produce wide, steep-sided basins and fine volcanic ash deposits. Visitors come for rim walks, views across the crater, and the stark high-desert landscape that contrasts sharply with lower-elevation valley floors. The best visitation weather is spring and fall; summers are extremely hot and winters are cold and can be windy. While the site is accessible by vehicle and has established parking areas, stay prepared for high winds, rapid weather changes, and high sun exposure.
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