Panum Crater Plug Trail

Overview

Panum Crater is a rhyolitic volcanic cone close to Mono Lake. Geologically, it is very young, just 600\u2013700 years old. This trail heads up to plug at the top, crossing over pumice and obsidian. The initial 0.05 miles from the parking area doesn't look very promising but at the junction with the Panum Rim Trail yellow wildflowers and sage fill the landscape. At 0.25 miles, after a few switchbacks, the views of the Sierras, White Mountains, and Mono Lake are good and only get better. The second half of the trail is less distinct but still fairly easy to follow. While taking in the views, don't forget to look down at the interesting rocks.<br><br>The gravel road to Panum Crater from Highway 120 is marked. It is suitable for low clearance vehicles at a modest speed.

Trail Stats

Photos

The Panum Crater Plug Trail is lined with yellow wildflowers.

The Panum Crater Plug Trail is lined with yellow wildflowers.

Panum Crater comes to life in the spring.

Panum Crater comes to life in the spring.

The Sierras poke up above Panum Crater.

The Sierras poke up above Panum Crater.

A pine tree clings to life on Panum Crater.

A pine tree clings to life on Panum Crater.

Panum Crater Plug Trail can be seen from near the top of the crater.

Panum Crater Plug Trail can be seen from near the top of the crater.

Yellow wildflowers bloom at Panum Crater.

Yellow wildflowers bloom at Panum Crater.

Mono Lake pokes around the edge of Panum Crater.

Mono Lake pokes around the edge of Panum Crater.

The Sierras are beautiful when seen from Panum Crater.

The Sierras are beautiful when seen from Panum Crater.

View back Panum Crater Trail

View back Panum Crater Trail

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