The Ubehebe Crater system contains several volcanic craters, cinder cones and ash hills, all relics from an explosive steam eruption about 2,000 years ago, when rising magma met an underground lake. The top of the crater is nearly a half a mile across and is about 800 feet deep. Several trails lead to all parts of the crater including a rim walk and a hike to the bottom of the crater - we recommend to take the rim trail as photography is best done from this level. By the way, "Ubehebe" (pronounced YOU-bee-HEE-bee) is a Native American word meaning "Big basket in the rock."
Directions
The region is located in the far north end of Death Valley and it takes a while to get there. If you start at Furnace Creek, follow 190 North for about 17 miles until you reach North Highway (direction Scotty's Castle). Continue on North Highway for another 33 miles until you reach Grapevine and then look for signs pointing to Ubehebe Crater. Exit North Highway onto Racetrack Valley Road, you will reach the crater after about 6 miles.
