Trail Overview
Diana’s Punchbowl is an essential stop for anyone exploring the vastness of the Monitor Valley. This short and well-graded out-and-back trail carries you across the basin floor to the foot of a remarkable geological anomaly. From a distance, the site appears as a low, rounded hill rising out of the sagebrush, but as you approach the terminus and begin the short walk to the summit, the true "magic" is revealed. At the top of the hill lies a massive, perfectly circular "punchbowl" recessed deep into the earth. This natural travertine mound houses a steaming cauldron of brilliant blue geothermal water. The sight of this hidden pool, shimmering against the rugged backdrop of the Toquima and Monitor ranges, is breathtaking. While you can no longer drive directly to the rim, the walk is short and rewarding. For those looking to spend the night near this natural wonder, there are a couple of excellent dispersed campsites with existing fire rings located just outside the access gate. Safety Warning: The water in Diana’s Punchbowl is scalding hot (reaching near-boiling temperatures), and the edges of the bowl can be unstable. Do not attempt to swim, touch the water, or climb down into the bowl. Falling in would be fatal. Please keep a very close eye on children and pets. The Punchbowl is located on private ranch property. Public access is currently permitted, but this is a privilege that can be revoked.
History
Diana’s Punchbowl, also known as the "Devil’s Punchbowl," is a rare geothermal phenomenon formed over thousands of years as mineral-rich hot water bubbled to the surface, depositing layers of calcium carbonate to build the travertine mound you see today. For the Western Shoshone, these "warm spots" in the desert were significant landmarks. In the 19th century, the Punchbowl became a legendary waypoint for early explorers and surveyors who marveled at the steaming blue pool hidden in the middle of a parched desert basin.
