The Magnificent Mammoth Fault
I’m currently hunkered down under California’s stay-at-home order, it’s strange to think of not visiting Mammoth in the Spring, as it is a favorite weekend getaway destination for Nate and I. We want to fully respect Mammoth Lakes’ request that anyone who is not a primary resident pause all trips for time being to help stop any spread of Covid-19 in this small, remote mountain community. While Nate and I are at home playing board games and practicing our social distancing I still want to share one of my favorite little hidden Mammoth gems, a spot I’m looking forward to visiting again soon.
Welcome to the Earthquake Fault. This is actually an earthquake fissure because the vertical rocks on both sides have barely moved, so technically it’s not a true fault. While the exact age of the fissure is unknown, some of the trees growing around it are over 160 years old. The sides are still jagged and uneroded, suggesting it’s quite young in geologic time. Scientists believe it was formed in the last 200 to 600 years by tectonic stresses in the earth’s crust.
Location
The fissure is located within the Inyo National Forest, not far from the base of Mammoth Mountain and only minutes from downtown. You’ll find ample parking at the trailhead, as well as picnic tables and an easy 0.3 mile self-guided interpretive trail where you can fully explore both sides of this fissure. It’s impressive to see the 10 ft wide and 60 ft deep chasm up close on this gentle, mostly paved path. There is a minimal elevation change (of less than 50 feet), but you are 8,600 ft above sea level and some of the stone steps along the way are uneven, so it’s important to watch your footing.
Best Time to Visit
To fully experience the magnificence of this giant gash, I recommend visiting from mid-Summer through late Fall. The images on today’s blog were taken in late September, and there was still a sprinkling of snow at the bottom of the fissure. During Winter, Spring, and even into early Summer, the grounds will often be completely covered in snow obstructing a clear view. The road here may also be impassable during Winter months depending on snowfall totals.
Know Before You Go
• You can easily enjoy the full interpretive trail in less than a 1/2 hour, making this an easy and quick stop…but there are picnic tables and plenty of shade under beautiful Red Fir and Jeffrey Pine trees If you want to spend more time or enjoy a meal out in nature.
• If you’re seeking a more strenuous adventure, close by you can explore the 5.3 mile Mountain View Trail, which is perfect for extreme Mountain biking, trail running, and hiking.
• Cross country skiing and snowshoeing are possible at the earthquake fault during Winter months.
• Primitive toilets are located by the parking area at the trail head.
In Summary & Behind the Blog Video
Even though I am currently staying home to do my part in preventing the spread of Covid-19, I am so grateful there is big beautiful world to explore in good time. Once it’s safe to stop practicing social distancing, I can’t wait to get out and enjoy even more of it!
Thanks for joining me on the blog today. For more information about the Mammoth Earthquake Fault, see my Behind the Blog Video below. Until next week, I hope you find adventure and encouragement...even while spending all your time at home like me! 😉
You might also like:
