Near Panum Crater Plug
The Sierras poke up above Panum Crater.
Near Panum Crater Plug
The Panum Crater Plug Trail is lined with yellow wildflowers.
Near Panum Crater Plug
View back Panum Crater Trail
Near Panum Crater Plug
The Sierras are beautiful when seen from Panum Crater.
Near Panum Crater Plug
Yellow wildflowers bloom at Panum Crater.

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Hike Route

Panum Crater Plug

3.3 (3 Ratings)
A rhyolitic volcanic cone with more wildflowers than you might expect.
1.3
mi
Distance
407
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Family FriendlyGeologically SignificantViewsWildflowers

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
1.31mi
Distance
407ft
Elevation Gain
407ft
Elevation Loss
45%
Max Grade
7,005ft
High Point
6,840ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
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.The gravel road to Panum Crater from Highway 120 is marked. It is suitable for low clearance vehicles at a modest speed.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Matthew Kidd