These three volcanic craters were formed by a series of small but violent steam-blast eruptions on the summit and south flank of Deer Mountain about 600 years ago, blanketing the region with several inches of ash and adding to the inventory of obsidian used by native peoples. The two southernmost craters contain small lakes. Two short trails that loop together lead up from the parking area and restrooms to the summit of the first crater. Access in winter is by snowshoes, skis or snowmobile.
Inyo Craters
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Destination Activities
Public Services
Hours of Operation: All day
Season: Summer Fall
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This destination is accessed directly from the Inyo Craters Trailhead.
*Note that not all facilities are accessible via public transit.
Related Trails
Inyo Craters Trail
0.8 mi
- Surface: Soil
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Related Trails
| Trail | Length (mi) | Surface | Activities and Services |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inyo Craters Trail | 0.8 | Soil |
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Related Experiences
Birding at Inyo Craters
0.8 mi
- Rating: ,
- Surface: Soil,
- Duration: Less than 4 hours
Motorized Trail Riding Crater Flat Loop
10.8 mi
- Rating: ,
- Surface: Soil,
- Duration: Less than 4 hours
Mountain Biking the Inyo Craters Loop
10.3 mi
- Rating: ,
- Surface: Soil,
- Duration: Less than 4 hours
Snowmobiling Shady Rest to Deadman Creek
22.3 mi
- Rating: ,
- Surface: Snow,
- Duration: Half day
Snowshoeing the Obsidian Dome Blue Diamond Route
2.3 mi
- Rating: ,
- Surface: Snow,
- Duration: Half day
Related Experiences
| Experience | Rating | Length (mi) | Surface | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Birding at Inyo Craters | 0.8 | Soil | Less than 4 hours | |
| Motorized Trail Riding Crater Flat Loop | 10.8 | Soil | Less than 4 hours | |
| Mountain Biking the Inyo Craters Loop | 10.3 | Soil | Less than 4 hours | |
| Snowmobiling Shady Rest to Deadman Creek | 22.3 | Snow | Half day | |
| Snowshoeing the Obsidian Dome Blue Diamond Route | 2.3 | Snow | Half day |
