Big Pine Volcanic Field – Owens Valley
Located in Inyo County, California, the Big Pine Volcanic Field is a fascinating geological destination that offers a glimpse into the volcanic history of the Owens Valley. The field is approximately 500 square kilometers and features diverse volcanic structures, including symmetrical cinder cones, irregular scoria cones, and expansive lava flows.
This area offers visitors a chance to explore the region’s geologic wonders and the effects of past volcanic activity on the surrounding landscape. Its stark volcanic terrain makes it a prime destination for geology enthusiasts and hikers seeking solitude in the high desert.
Destination Details
| Season | Year-round (best in cooler months to avoid extreme temperatures) |
| Location | Inyo County, California, east of the Sierra Nevada |
| GPS Coordinates | 37.1104414, -118.299294 |
| Nearest Major City | Bishop, CA (about 20 miles) |
| Management | BLM (Bureau of Land Management) |
| Terrain | Volcanic cones, lava flows, and fault lines |
| Activities | Hiking, photography, geology exploration |
How to Get to the Big Pine Volcanic Field
To reach the Big Pine Volcanic Field from Bishop, head south on U.S. Route 395. The field is situated along the eastern side of the Owens Valley, between the towns of Big Pine and Independence.
The road is accessible year-round, although visitors should prepare for rugged terrain and varying weather conditions. The most prominent landmarks are Crater Mountain and Red Mountain, which can be seen from nearby Fish Springs Road.
Destination Overview
The Big Pine Volcanic Field offers a variety of geological features, including basaltic lava flows, scoria cones, and even a rhyolite coulee. Eruptions in this area began around 1.2 million years ago and continued through the Pleistocene, with the youngest lava flows dating to approximately 17,000 years ago. This rich volcanic history makes the area a fascinating place for hiking and exploration.
The area is home to more than two dozen cinder cones and a lava cone.
Hikers can explore the extensive lava flows, which cover areas as far as 9 kilometers in length. These flows offer an opportunity to observe the unique forms of aa and pahoehoe lava and the way glacial and lake activity in the valley have influenced the region’s geology. Visitors should note that much of the area is rugged and remote, so proper preparation and sufficient water are essential.
The volcanic field is relatively quiet today, though it remains an active part of California’s seismic and volcanic systems. The area’s distinctive features, with its sparse vegetation and dry, windy climate, make it a striking destination for adventurers interested in geology and natural history.
Camping
There are several campgrounds and dispersed camping options in the area. Tinnemaha Creek Campground near Red Mountain, and Goodale Creek Campground and Taboose Creek Campground, both further south, are good basees of operations from which to explore the region.
