Obsidian Dome

Trail Overview

The Obsidian dome is one of the many places where one can experience the immensity and the history of the volcanic activity in the Mammoth Lakes area. The road starts out paved but quickly turns to gravel and rough. Low vehicles might want to stop before the gravel section. The trail takes you up to the top of the dome, with great views. You'll feel like you just dropped into Mordor... the change is pretty dramatic. Along the base of the dome, you'll find car-sized boulders of obsidian. There are several small pullouts that provide access to a short hike up a gentle grade that takes you to the top of the dome, where you can see massive formations of obsidian, pumice, quartz, and more.

Difficulty

Mostly dirt road with some exposed rocks and tree roots that are large enough to require a high clearance 4x4

Technical Rating