Pisgah Crater

Pisgah Crater is a young volcanic cinder cone rising from an ancient Lavic Lake volcano field in the Mojave Desert. Lavic Lake is a volcano field with several extinct cinder cones. Pisgah Crater may be the most accessible and prominent volcano in the volcanic field. It rises to an elevation of 2,545’ and has a prominence of about 330 feet. 

The crater is located off of Pisgah Crater Road which is accessible from the historic Route 66 / National Trails Highway. 

RECREATION

The crater and surrounding area are largely privately owned. Despite this, the lava tubes are a popular tourist attraction and provide accessible opportunities for cave exploration. Additionally, the area is surrounded by various Wilderness areas including the Cady Mountains to the east, the Rodman Mountains for the west, and Newberry Mountain Wilderness to the west. 

ACCESSIBILITY

Pisgah Crater Road is a poorly maintained, once paved, road. It does not require a high-clearance vehicle or 4-wheel drive. 

CONSIDERATIONS

• Pants are recommended due to the sharpness of the rocks. 

• Prepare to bring and carry all the food and water you will need. 

• This is an ideal winter destination. Avoid visiting in the summer when the temperatures tend to get extreme.

• Crater Facts

• The crate was once at an elevation of 2,638’ but it has shrunk to 2,545’ due to mining.