Lunar Crater National Natural Landmark Adventures
Lunar Crater National Natural Landmark offers a unique look at volcanic features amidst Nevada's stark and expansive high desert landscape, providing a distinctive outdoor experience.
About Lunar Crater National Natural Landmark
Lunar Crater National Natural Landmark is a captivating volcanic basin located in Nye County, central Nevada. Designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1973, this remote area features a 430-foot-deep, 4,000-foot-wide volcanic crater formed as a result of volcanic explosions. The terrain is characterized by the desert's sweeping plains interspersed with volcanic cones, lava flows, and craters, giving it a lunar-like appearance. This landscape attracts geologists, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts who are drawn to its unique geological features and serene beauty. Visitors can explore the area through hiking trails and dirt roads, often encountering remarkable solitude as the Landmark is not heavily visited. Rich with geological history, the site offers a window into the volcanic activity of the past, juxtaposed against the backdrop of Nevada's high desert ecology. Visitors should be prepared for the stark desert conditions, which depict diverse plant life adapted to the arid environment and occasional sightings of desert wildlife.
Highlights
Lunar Crater itself, a striking geological feature reminiscent of the moon's surface.
The Pancake Range, offering panoramic views of volcanic formations and the high desert.
Easy roadside access to photograph volcanic features and barren landscapes.
Quietude and solitude, providing exceptional opportunities for stargazing.
Notable Natural Features
Lunar Crater
A large volcanic crater offering a glimpse into the earth's volcanic past.
Easy Chair Crater
Another volcanic feature within the landmark worth exploring.
Pancake Range
A range offering extensive views and photo opportunities of the crater and landscape.