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Panum Crater and the Mono
Craters should not be missed by anyone interested in
geology. These spectacular young volcanoes look ready to
erupt at any moment. The craters range in age from 600 to
40,000 years old. Most accessible is Panum Crater, the
northernmost and youngest of the chain. It is a classic
example of the rhyolitic eruptions that occur in this
area. The top of the ring is circumnavigable by way of
the Rim Trail which offers spectacular vistas of the
Sierra Nevada and the entire Mono Basin. There is also a
trail that climbs to the top of the plug dome. There is
little shade, so be sure to bring water and sunscreen.
During the summer, there are naturalist guided tours that
last about an hour and a half. Check Naturalist Activities for
details on tours. Panum is reached via a short dirt road,
off Highway 120 east about 3 miles east of Highway 395.
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