44 min
This trail follows the outer rim of the Panum Crater and rewards you with far reaching views across Mono Lake. Most of the trail surface is deep volcanic sand which makes the hike somewhat strenuous, especially on some of the steeper sections. The rim is not very level, instead it moves up and down considerably. The trail starts and ends at the Panum Crater Plug Trail, just a few hundred yards from the parking area and is very easy to follow. The outer rim is lower than the inner rim, so you won't be able to get a glimpse of the center of the crater.
The Panum Crater Plug Trail is lined with yellow wildflowers.
Sunset over Mono Lake.