Hike Ubehebe Crater Rim Trail in Death Valley, California
Ubehebe Crater is a large volcanic crater 600 feet deep and half a mile across. The trail around the crater is just about two-miles long (1.8) and makes for an easy but entertaining hike. With excellent views and a soft, spacious terrain, you’ll have no issues walking around the rim. The atmosphere is peaceful, but if you’re looking for more romance sunrise and sunset will check that box.
Ubehebe (pronounced you-bee-HEE-bee) Crater formed during a series of explosions set off as magma rose toward the Earth’s surface, creating phreatic eruptions. These explosions, which occurred about 2000 years ago, lasted a few days or weeks and shaped the crater into what we see today. Ubehebe Crater is ranked as a Moderate Threat volcano in the USGS volcanic threat assessment (USGS Open-File Report 2005-1164, 2005).
On our trip, from the moment we exited the car we noticed a strong, steady wind whipping around the crater. The wind was so strong at times that we had to close the car doors, as things were being blown out. The scene, however, was incredible. The open views that stretch as far as the eye could see, the rolling crater’s rim and the vast colors that illuminate the landscape were just a few things we noticed at first glance.
The hike around the rim is set at 1.8 miles, but with a little wandering, you’ll hit two miles in no time. The ground is soft with some give but the hike is relatively easy. The views at every point of the hike are elite. They validate the reason you chose Ubehebe Crater in the first place. The weather is hot. Considering Death Valley is the hottest place on Earth, that shouldn’t surprise you. Bring enough water to keep hydrated during the hike and enjoy your experience at Ubehehe Crater.
Cost of Adventure
- Per vehicle: $30 (for 7 days)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Total distance: 2 miles
- Calories burned: 200 – 350
- Time suggested: 1-2 hour
- Family friendly: YES
- Park size: 3,422,024 acres
Challenge Yourself
At Ubehebe Crater there are several challenges you can take on. You can take on the nearby Little Hebe Crater or you can take the plunge and hike down into Ubehebe. For this challenge let’s go for the gusto. At Ubehebe Crater, your challenge is to hike down into the crater itself. The Crater Floor Trail is a short .3 mile hike. Once you’ve reached the bottom, the sheer size of the crater will be apparent. Be careful climbing back up.
Find Great Photo Ops
When you’re standing at the crater’s rim, you’ll be hard pressed not to find a great photo opportunity. Whether it be a sweet selfie or a stunning landscape photo, the photo ops at Ubehebe Crater are sure to be a hit on the socials.
